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San Juan de Gaztelugatxe Guided Tour

A tour to visit the rocky islet hermitage and two fishing villages nearby

4.7
Exceptional
25 reviews
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Free cancellation available
Up to 24 hours before the start time
Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes - 6 hours 30 minutes

This half-day trip from Bilbao will take you to Gaztelugatxe, a rocky islet and picturesque destination in the Basque Country.

First, you'll stop at a viewpoint for a look at the islet from afar – and see how it's connected to the mainland by a rocky ridge and winding stone staircase. You'll then have two free hours to climb the tenth-century stairs to the hermitage at the top of the hill, where you can head inside to see its chapel.

The tour will also include stops at the fishing villages of Bermeo and Gernika. After a brief walking tour of Bermeo, you'll have time to visit the Assembly House of Gernika – one of the oldest parliament buildings in Europe.

Why Visit

  • A climb up the winding stone staircase to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
  • A visit to the town that inspired Picasso's famous 'Guernica' painting
  • Panoramic views along the coast of Biscay during a scenic drive

What's included

  • Guide services

What's Not Included

    What's not included
    • Lunch

    Restrictions

    • Comfortable footwear is recommended.
    • Operates in all weather conditions. Please dress accordingly.

    Tour available in your selected language

    English
    Spanish

    Additional information

    Tours run on Thursdays and Sundays at 08:50 and return to Bilbao at approximately 14:30.

    Infants aged 0–1 year can join for free.

    Please note that the staircase up to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is steep.

    Please note that maintenance work is often carried out at San Juan de Gaztelugatxe in summer.

    A minimum of two participants is required for the tour to go ahead.

    Location

    Pick-up point

    Mazarredo Zumarkalea, 65, Bilbao
    Arrive at the bus stop located at the tourist office next to the Guggenheim Museum.

    User ratings

    User reviews, 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25 reviews
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