San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
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San Juan de Gaztelugatxe - by Jose Maria Garcia Garcia on Unsplash
Description
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a hermitage dating from the 10th century standing on a rock connected to the mainland cliffs by a spectacular man-made stone bridge and about 230 steps. It has a long history due to its strategic location and has been attacked several times. Of late, it has come to the attention of the international public for featuring is a fantasy series (GoT).
Access & Transport
The hermitage is located about 40mins north-east of Bilbao by car, the car park is between the towns of Bakio and Bermeo but these can be full so it might be better to park in one of those towns and rely on public bus shuttles. From Bermeo, check: https://www.bizibermeo.eus/inicio-en There are two routes, the shortest is 1.2km and the longer one (Ermu) is 1.6km.
Instructions & Recommendations
The visit is free, but a ticket is nonetheless required. An audioguide is available online: https://audiogaztelugatxe.bizkaia.eus/#/ Please double check the weather forecast, in case of strong winds and/or heavy rain the access can be closed. And wear shoes with good grip.
Environmental & Social
Limited infrastructure so we deem this activity environmentally neutral. Preserves the region's architectural heritage and tourism has some positive economic impact on surrounding towns and villages.
Conclusion
The scenery of Gaztelugatxe and walk to the San Juan hermitage is quite the experience so if you are somewhere between Bilbao or San Sebastian and the weather is fair, we strongly recommend to include a visit in your itinerary - make sure to book online ahead of time (even if there is no admission fee).
Key positive
Spectacular setting
Interesting history
Key negative
Can be busy
Suitability
Not accessible for visitors with reduced mobility due to the uneven path and the stairs.
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
August 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 45m
est. visit time:2h
Monday10:00 - 19:00
Tuesday10:00 - 19:00
Wednesday10:00 - 19:00
Thursday10:00 - 19:00
Friday10:00 - 19:00
Saturday10:00 - 19:00
Sunday10:00 - 19:00