Gaztelugatxe

Magnificent place! I recommend visiting it when you are in Bilbao—real beauty when reaching the top and on the way to it.
Be prepared that the way is not easy, wear only comfortable shoes, not flip-flops. Don't forget water and some snacks.
It took us 2 hours to reach the point and return, with stops to take photos and videos and enjoy the view from the top. Church was closed but we don't regret it. It is worth getting to the top and seeing this beauty. Love it.
The worst part for us was the road from Bilbao to Gaztelugatxe. My recommendation is to rent a car, it is the easiest way. Because our experience was long and hard. We took a bus to Bermeo and there we found a shuttle bus to this place. It has a table on the stops so learn the time to not wait for too long.
And my second recommendation is to buy tickets online. It will save you time.

Unfortunately, we didn't reserve a time slot in advance, be sure to book your tickets in advance. Luckily we found a footpath with a pretty good view of the island and the building.

RESERVE AHEAD OF TIME!! We went with a paid tour because we couldn’t get tickets but the tour was absolutely worth it. Stunning views of the island from above. Amazing sights waking down to the ocean and up the stairs to the church. Be prepared for a HIKE on the way back up though. Even though it’s stairs, it’s exhausting especially in the heat. Live your dragonstone/GoT/HOTD fantasy by visiting here!

Very beautiful location. You have to reserve in advance which I felt keeps crowds well managed. They only let you enter 10 minutes before your reservation time and they were strict on this. It is a bit steep at points so be sure to bring good shoes and some water. You start with a descent and the go uphill to the building and the back the same way you came. Roughly 1-1.5 hours. We saw 2 parking, one at the top of the entrance and another closer to the start of the trail

Amazingly cool spot. I visited this place BEFORE seeing Game of Thrones. The bridge to the church takes quite a long time to get to, but is absolutely worth it. I recommend being in decent shape in order to get across the bridge. It really is a spectacular location like nothing else on earth. I highly recommend going!

Very important to take good shoes and water, the hike is very long but the views you get are completely worth the long hike 😂. Would definitely recommend as a weekend plan, with nephews and children as a whole. 👍🏼

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe offers a a beautiful sea view, with incredible water colors with a man made bridge with241 steps, rocks, sea and wind. The access include a steep 400 meters of mountain walk. The magical island of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is an essential stop on the Basque coastline.
At the end of the steps you can step in a footprint said to have been left by Saint John the Baptist and to bring good luck. At the top you will find a picturesque chapel and, above all, spectacular views over the stormy Bay of Biscay, which has carved cliffs, tunnels and impossible arches out of the island. Spain has too much to offer, this is one of the Country's wonders. Not a fit for everyone, you need to have good physical condition.

Amazing place to visit.
The road is so beautiful.
Please note that this is a hard walk and not everyone can do it.

The way down (and back) can be hard for some, but is definitely worth it!

Don't forget to have a reservation (which is free) for the visit, and give yourself enough time for the visit (ca. 3 hours). Finding the entrance is a bit of hassle, but worth it.

Magical place.

IMPORTANT: You need a reservation during weekends and holidays. You can book ahead. It’s free.

If you decide to visit randomly on the same day, there is a chance.

You need to check the website during these times:

- at 12.58 (for the trip at 13.20),
- at 14.58 (for the trip at 15.10),
- and at 16.58 (for the trip at 17.25) for extra tickets.

They do release around 12 places during these times and in 3 minutes the places are gone. It is important to be in the car park near the site. We had reception and booked the tickets literally 20 min before our trip.

Good luck:)

The scenery is exactly the way you hoped it would be. The hike up and back is rigorous but very doable. Take water and use bathroom facilities before you embark. Here is my “pro” tip. Arrive EARLY meaning before the buses show up. Reservations are required. Take the earliest one you can get. If you arrive before 10:00 you may be able to access the route virtually alone. See my pics. It does not look this way an hour later

It's not great because of game of thrones, but on itself.
The nature, the castle and the 264 steps taking to the mesmerizing view of the sea!
You must go to the Ermu view on the return it's quite easier!

It was quite a hike to get to the top to the church but the view is just wonderful and worth every step!

Use some good hiking shoes as the route can be slippery.

Amazing view and nice

Worth Every Moment! Great exercise, be prepared to spend 2-3 hours for full enjoyment. Wear comfortable, reliable footwear.

Nice workout, specially with kids 😅. Impressive views. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen.

Beautiful view. The hike is not easy but it's worth it.

Great place. Must climb up. Take good shoes and water. Sit on the top, enjoy the view and sound of the ocean for a while. Try to avoid high season as its usually crowdy (f.e.April)

Very pretty, but needs to be booked long in advance