Gaztelugatxe — Attraction in Bermeo

Buy a ticket for entry in advance or go before they open. We arrived at 7am and parked in the top free lot and walked in. It was an hour there and back of you didn’t stop to take photos. We only ran into 4 people coming down the steps and we were there for sun rise but the clouds didn’t part to give us a show. Rain started as we were making our way to the car. Take a headlamp as it was pitch black when we began not wheelchair accessible.

From their website “NOTES

Wear comfortable clothing and footwear that are suitable for the path. Please note that the path is very steep. You should make sure you take water with you to cool down.

This route is physically very demanding and it is therefore not recommended for people with health problems or who find it hard to walk, or people with children’s pushchairs.

Due to the slopes and state of the ground, visiting the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe chapel is not recommended for people with certain types of physical disabilities. If you have one of those disabilities, we suggest you enjoy the view from the viewpoint on the Ermu route.

Don’t forget to take sun cream with you in summer and on sunny days.

There are no toilet facilities along the route, so it is recommended to use those available at either of the two entry points.

Please remember that you are visiting a protected natural area, therefore you should respect the basic rules to preserve and protect its natural values. Camping and climbing are not allowed and you must not light fires, make noise, leave any rubbish, dive, drive vehicles and park except in authorised areas. It is forbidden any activity that may disrupt the quietness of the place or that can damage the flora and the fauna.

The reservation allows access to a protected natural area with limited capacity for conservation reasons. It does not guarantee entry to the hermitage, as it is usually closed.

It is recommended to use public transportation to reach Gaztelugatxe. This helps avoid traffic congestion and promotes more sustainable and environmentally friendly mobility. Visitors are encouraged to leave their vehicles in Bermeo, Bakio, or Bilbao and reach the area by public transport (Bizkaibus, Gaztelu Begi stop).

Pets are allowed on the route as long as they are kept on a leash.

This is a protected natural environment, so it is essential to respect the rules of the...

Gaztelugatxe – A Breathtaking Pilgrimage of Nature, History, and Views

Perched dramatically off the rugged Basque coastline, Gaztelugatxe is one of those rare places that feels like it belongs equally to legend and reality. From the moment you catch sight of the islet with its winding stone bridge and the tiny hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe at the summit, it’s hard not to be awestruck. The journey there is as magical as the destination itself – a scenic drive along the Biscay coast, followed by a walk through lush greenery, cliffside paths, and the famous 241 stone steps that zigzag toward the top.

Every step is a sensory experience: the salty breeze from the Atlantic, the crashing sound of the waves below, and the panoramic views that shift and expand as you climb. Once you reach the hermitage, tradition calls for ringing its bell three times and making a wish – a small, symbolic act that somehow deepens the sense of connection to this place.

For photography lovers, Gaztelugatxe offers endless opportunities. The changing light transforms the colors of the sea and cliffs throughout the day, and whether you capture it from the shore, the bridge, or the top, every angle tells a different story.

Whether you visit for its cinematic fame (Game of Thrones fans will recognize it as Dragonstone), its spiritual history, or simply its raw natural beauty, Gaztelugatxe leaves an impression that lingers long after you leave. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and take your time — because this is more than a visit; it’s a pilgrimage.

⭐ Highly recommended for travelers, photographers, and anyone seeking one of Spain’s most unforgettable coastal...

Absolutely worth the detour. This place is stunning and dog friendly! No extra ticket needed for pups, but aim for early morning or late afternoon slots to protect their paws from hot surfaces. The walk is well marked and beautiful, I recommend that you stop at the mirador on the way up.

Pro tip: Bring a water bottle or grab one at the entrance shop. Once you’re in, there are no vendors or bathrooms, which honestly makes the route feel more serene.

Wear proper shoes. You don’t need hiking poles, but some paths are gravelly or steep, so comfy walking shoes are a must.

We parked at Eneperi for €3.50, felt safe leaving our luggage there and saw no signs of break-ins, though always use common sense.

Book ahead during peak season. The free tickets do run out weeks in advance in the summer (July, August) so reserve early to avoid disappointment. If you don’t have a reservation, apparently you can try your luck online at 5pm but I wouldn’t count on it. Don’t bother trying to turn up and ask to get let in without a ticket during peak season, I’ve seen many people get...