After spending three days indulging in pintxos and tapas in San Sebastian, my European EV road trip took me along the stunning Basque coastline toward Bilbao, Spain.
Instead of taking the direct highway, I opted for the slower, scenic coastal route—an excellent decision that led me to one of northern Spain’s most breathtaking locations: San Juan de Gaztelugatxe.
This awe-inspiring rocky islet is connected to the mainland by a winding stone bridge and a legendary staircase leading to a historic chapel at its peak.
The site is not only a natural wonder but also gained worldwide fame as Dragonstone in Game of Thrones. I visited in the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe GOT location in fall on a midweek day, avoiding the peak-season crowds.
If you’re planning a visit, here’s everything you need to know, including how to get to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, where to stay, and what to bring.
BOOK HERE: Search for the lowest fares on flights to Bilbao, SpainHistory and Significance of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, located on the rugged Basque coast of northern Spain, is a site of historical and cultural significance that dates back to at least the 10th century.
The name “Gaztelugatxe” means “castle rock” in Basque, reflecting its dramatic position on a small island connected to the mainland by a narrow stone bridge and a steep staircase of 241 steps.
A Place of Worship and Conflict
Originally built as a hermitage, the site has long been associated with religious devotion. It is dedicated to John the Baptist, and legend says he once set foot on the island, leaving behind three footprints, which visitors can still see today.
Pilgrims have been making the trek up the steps for centuries, ringing the chapel’s bell three times and making a wish upon arrival.
Throughout history, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe has served as more than just a religious site. Due to its strategic location, it played an important defensive role. The hermitage has been destroyed and rebuilt several times, most notably after pirate attacks and conflicts.
In 1593, the infamous English privateer Francis Drake raided and looted the island, setting fire to the hermitage. Later, in the 19th and 20th centuries, it suffered additional fires, requiring restoration efforts to preserve its historical and spiritual importance.
Today, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe remains a cherished pilgrimage site, especially on June 24th, when Basques celebrate the feast of Saint John the Baptist with a special mass.
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe GOT Connection
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe gained global recognition when it was featured as Dragonstone in HBO’s hit series Game of Thrones. While the real-life island lacks the massive castle shown in the series (which was added digitally), its iconic staircase and dramatic cliffs served as the setting for key moments in Season 7.
One of the most memorable scenes filmed here is when Daenerys Targaryen returns to Westeros, walking up the steps of Dragonstone for the first time.
The winding path, striking coastline, and historical aura of the location made it a perfect match for the ancestral home of the House of Targaryen.
Since the show’s release, the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe GOT location has seen a surge in tourism, with fans of the series eager to walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters. To protect the site from overtourism, access is now regulated, and visitors need to book in advance during peak seasons.
Whether you’re drawn by its centuries-old history, its breathtaking views, or its Game of Thrones fame, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe remains one of northern Spain’s most awe-inspiring destinations.
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe Tickets & Visitor Information
Due to its increasing popularity, especially after its appearance in Game of Thrones, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe now requires visitors to book tickets in advance during peak seasons.
While entry to the site is free, a reservation system has been implemented to manage crowd control and preserve the natural and historical integrity of the location.
Tickets can be reserved online through the official Bizkaia tourism website, and availability can be limited, especially in summer and on weekends. Visitors should plan ahead to secure their spot.
Additionally, while there is no entrance fee, parking near the site is limited, and reaching the hermitage requires a moderately challenging hike down a winding path before ascending the 241 steps to the chapel.
It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the route can be physically demanding.
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe Mapa
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is located along the Basque coast of northern Spain, between the towns of Bakio and Bermeo, in the province of Biscay (Bizkaia).
The above Google Map highlights key points such as:
- Parking areas: The closest parking is near Eneperi Restaurant, about a 15-minute downhill walk from the main entrance to the trail.
- Walking route: The path to the entrance consists of a steep descent followed by the climb up the stone steps to the hermitage.
- Viewpoints: There are scenic viewpoints along the route offering breathtaking views of the island, the Cantabrian Sea, and the surrounding cliffs.
How to Get From Bilbao to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is located about 35 km (22 miles) northeast of Bilbao, and there are several ways to reach it, including public transportation, car, or guided tours.
By Public Transportation (Bus + Taxi)
If you’re traveling from Bilbao without a car, the most convenient option is to take a bus to Bermeo, followed by a short taxi ride to the entrance of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe.
- Bus from Bilbao to Bermeo:
- Take Bizkaibus line A3515 from Termibus Bilbao (Bilbao Intermodal) to Bermeo.
- The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.
- Buses run roughly every hour, but schedules can vary, so checking in advance is recommended.
- Tickets cost around €3–€4 each way.
- Taxi from Bermeo to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe:
- Once in Bermeo, take a 10-15 minute taxi ride (about 10 km) to the parking area near San Juan de Gaztelugatxe.
- Taxis can be found near the Bermeo bus station, or you can call one in advance.
- The taxi fare is typically €15–€20, depending on demand and time of day.
- Hiking to the Hermitage:
- From the parking area near Eneperi Restaurant, there is a 1.5 km (0.9 mi) walk downhill to the entrance.
- After reaching the base, you’ll climb the 241 steps to the top of the island.
By Car
If you prefer more flexibility, renting a car in Spain and driving from Bilbao to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is the fastest and most convenient option:
- The drive takes about 40–45 minutes via the BI-631 and BI-2101 roads.
- Parking is available near the Eneperi Restaurant, but spaces fill up quickly in peak seasons.
Guided Tours from Bilbao
For a hassle-free experience, several tour operators in Bilbao offer day trips to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, often combining it with visits to nearby towns like Bermeo and Gernika. I recommend this San Juan de Gaztelugatxe tour as it includes lunch and a visit to a winery.
These tours typically include round-trip transportation and a guided visit, making them a great option if you want to learn more about the site’s history and avoid the logistics of public transport.
How to Get From San Sebastian to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is located about 100 km (62 miles) west of San Sebastián, making it a 1.5 to 2-hour journey depending on the mode of transport. You can reach it by bus and taxi, car, or guided tour.
By Public Transportation (Bus + Taxi)
If you’re traveling without a car, the best way to reach San Juan de Gaztelugatxe from San Sebastián is by taking a bus to Bilbao, then another bus to Bermeo, followed by a short taxi ride.
- Bus from San Sebastián to Bilbao:
- Take a direct ALSA or PESA bus from Donostia-San Sebastián Bus Station to Bilbao Intermodal (Termibus).
- The journey takes 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Buses run frequently throughout the day.
- Tickets cost between €6–€12, depending on the bus company and schedule.
- Bus from Bilbao to Bermeo:
- From Bilbao Intermodal, take Bizkaibus line A3515 to Bermeo.
- The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.
- The bus runs roughly every hour.
- Tickets cost around €3–€4 each way.
- Taxi from Bermeo to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe:
- Once in Bermeo, take a 10–15 minute taxi ride (about 10 km) to the parking area near San Juan de Gaztelugatxe.
- Taxi fares range from €15–€20.
- Walking to the Hermitage:
- From the parking area near Eneperi Restaurant, there’s a 1.5 km (0.9 mi) walk downhill to the entrance.
- After reaching the base, you’ll climb the 241 steps to the chapel.
By Car
Driving is the fastest and most convenient way to reach San Juan de Gaztelugatxe from San Sebastián:
- The journey takes about 1.5 hours via the AP-8 highway (a toll road).
- Take AP-8 towards Bilbao, then follow the BI-631 and BI-2101 roads toward Bermeo and San Juan de Gaztelugatxe.
- Parking is available near the Eneperi Restaurant, but it fills up quickly during peak times.
Guided Tours from San Sebastián
For a stress-free experience, several tour operators in San Sebastián offer day trips to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, often combining it with stops in Bermeo, Gernika, or the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. These tours include transportation, a guided visit, and sometimes lunch at a local Basque restaurant.
Whether traveling by bus and taxi, driving yourself, or joining a tour, visiting San Juan de Gaztelugatxe from San Sebastián is an unforgettable experience, with stunning coastal scenery and a rich history waiting to be explored.
Experiencing San Juan de Gaztelugatxe: A Scenic and Sweaty Climb
Despite visiting on a cool fall day, I still worked up a sweat making my way up the 241 steps to the hermitage.
In hindsight, that was probably for the best—helping to burn off some of the indulgences from the San Sebastián pintxos food tour the night before!Even in the cooler months, the climb is no joke, and I can’t imagine how hot and crowded it must get in peak summer.
We arrived to find the place still quite busy, and we were lucky to snag the last parking spot in the first small lot near Eneperi Restaurant. If you’re visiting during high season, arriving early is a must!
From the parking area, the descent to the base of the island was pleasant, but knowing we’d have to climb back up after tackling the 241 steps made me pace myself.
The climb itself was as rewarding as it was scenic. The winding stone staircase zigzags dramatically up the rocky islet, offering breathtaking views of the Cantabrian Sea crashing against the rugged cliffs.
There are several viewpoints along the way, so be sure to stop and take in the surroundings—some of the best photo opportunities are midway up, looking back toward the mainland.
At the top, there’s not much to do beyond catching your breath, soaking in the views, and ringing the chapel’s bell three times for good luck. The hermitage itself is small and simple, with no interior access, but the panoramic vistas from the summit make the journey worthwhile.
Tips for Visiting San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
- Parking fills up quickly, so arrive early, especially in peak season.
- Wear comfortable shoes—the trail and steps can be slippery, especially after rain.
- Bring water—even on a cool day, the climb is demanding.
- Take your time—there are lookout points along the way with some of the best coastal views.
- The main attraction is the climb itself—there’s not much at the top beyond the chapel and the incredible scenery.
Highlights of the Visit:
- Walking across the iconic stone bridge.
- Climbing the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe escaleras (stairs) while admiring the dramatic cliffs.
- Learning about the hermitage’s 10th-century history.
- Taking photos of the Game of Thrones filming location.
Where to Stay Near San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is mainly a day-trip destination, but there are great places to stay nearby:
Best Areas to Stay
- Bilbao – Ideal for nightlife, restaurants, and easy transportation. I stayed at Hesperia Hotel Bilbao, which offers modern amenities and a central location.
- Bermeo – A charming fishing town just 10km (6 miles) from the site.
- Mundaka – A top spot for surfers and those seeking a relaxing coastal retreat.
🔗 Book Your Stay at Hesperia Hotel Bilbao Today!
Additional Bilbao Hotel Recommendations
- Budget: Pensión Boutique Caravan Cinema – A stylish yet affordable option in Casco Viejo, featuring unique cinematic-themed rooms.
- Mid-Range: Sercotel Ayala – A modern and comfortable hotel located in Indautxu, offering spacious rooms and a great breakfast selection.
- Luxury: Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao – A five-star hotel offering luxurious amenities and spectacular views of the Guggenheim Museum, situated in Abando.
What to Eat and Drink Near San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
The Basque Country is a foodie’s paradise. After my climb, I stopped in Bermeo for a delicious seafood meal. Here’s what to try:
- Bacalao a la Vizcaína – Salted cod in a tomato-based sauce.
- Txakoli wine – A slightly sparkling, dry white wine unique to the region.
- Pintxos – Basque-style tapas, a must-try!
If you’re a food lover, I highly recommend taking a San Sebastian pintxos tour or a visit to a local bar for more traditional bites.
Is Visiting San Juan de Gaztelugatxe GOT Location Worth it?
Absolutely. Whether you’re drawn by its Game of Thrones fame or its rich history, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a must-visit. The 241-step climb is both challenging and rewarding, offering breathtaking coastal views and a chance to ring the chapel’s bell for good luck.
Even on a cool fall day, I worked up a sweat, making me appreciate just how intense this climb must be in the summer. While there’s not much at the top beyond the views, the journey itself is what makes this place special.
If you’re driving between San Sebastián and Bilbao, this is a short and scenic detour that’s well worth taking. Pair it with a visit to Bermeo or Mundaka for a taste of Basque fishing villages, or stop in Gernika for its historic significance.
Whether for a quick stop or a longer exploration of the Basque coast, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is an unforgettable highlight.
FAQ: Visiting San Juan de Gaztelugatxe GOT Location
1. How much does it cost to visit San Juan de Gaztelugatxe?
Visiting is free, but during peak times, you may need to book a free ticket in advance.
2. What is the best time to visit San Juan de Gaztelugatxe?
Spring and fall offer fewer crowds and pleasant weather. Avoid peak summer months if possible.
3. How long does the hike to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe take?
The hike to the top takes around 30–40 minutes, depending on fitness level.
4. Is San Juan de Gaztelugatxe accessible for all visitors?
The climb involves 241 steep steps, making it challenging for those with mobility issues.
5. How many San Juan de Gaztelugatxe escaleras (stairs) are there?
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe has 241 steps leading up to the hermitage. These famous stairs zigzag up the rocky island off the Basque coast of Spain, offering stunning views along the way. The climb is challenging but rewarding, and it’s a must-visit for fans of scenic hikes and “Game of Thrones,” as the site was used as Dragonstone in the series.
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