Gaztelugatxe

Get tickets ahead of time. They dont cost but you will need them to get in. If you find a site that claims to get you in for a few it is a scam. This place is highly worth the visit. The history, the Stations of the Cross walk up the steps, and the scenery is some of the best you'll find in the world. The climb back can be deceivingly difficult so pace yourself.

Amazing views throughout the hike. We went around 8 am and there was hardly anyone there. If you go early you can beat the crowds especially because the path is a bit narrow in some parts. Very well maintained roads and it 100% looks like dragon-stone from Game of thrones.

Sunset was definitely a good idea! Really nice place! But be ready for steep downhill cobblestone road you have to walk down and up!

An incredibly suggestive place to visit, even if you are not a Game of Thrones fan. You must be fit though - the return uphill walk is tough. Remember to book a free ticket online well before your visit or you will not be allowed in. Entries are booked well in advance.

Took a tour that included the biopark. There’s a lot of walking and steep change in height. Good shoes are a must. Your legs should be in decent shape or a willingness to endure a lil discomfort. You should have good cardio. But the views are exceptional. The stairs leading to the hermitage were used in Game of Thrones for the island of Dragonstone.

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 protected area.”

From the entrance to the top it takes about 30-40 min walk. There are two routes, one is about 5min shorter but it is considerably more steep. The view from the top is stunning from all sides. Recommend going on a tour so they buy the tickets in advance for you and give you detailed instructions. There is also a nice restaurant and rest area.

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 experiences.

Watch read 70 flights all in. It's a hike folks. Wear good shoes and attire you're willing to sweat in. Carry water and snacks (particularly if you have low blood sugar). There are facilities at the top before you head down, but don't expect bathrooms or anyone selling trinkets and water at the base. Parking: There are free ones and paid ones. The one across from Eneperi is €3 for all day. Reservations: Required for weekends only. Weekdays are free.

Game of Thrones and Dance of Dragons' location for Dragonstone home of the Targarians. The location is a National park and the signs in the highway are marked throughly and it is a 45 minute drive from Bilbao. Once you get there do not park in the first lot. Go to the third. Then walk slightly uphill and take a left though a gate. Follow the yellow signs. In high season (Summer) you need passes do to the popularity of the location with fans of the show. The trail is slippery and very steep. Bring very comfortable shoes. If you are not in shape do not attempt. You will arrive at a fork on the trail after 10 minutes. Take the left and go to an observation point where you can take great pics of the location. If you go right you will begin your decent to the walled walk way and church. There is no castle that is CGI'd. Once done go to the top and get a nice red at the restaurant at the top.

Well, this place is quite magical and picturesque. The hermitage - the small church on top - is now almost 1000 years old. Burned down in '78 and got rebuilt. The 200m long bridge connects the small island to the mainland and over 200 steps lead to the top. Besides being a destination of pilgrimage for many believers, this place has become a major tourist attraction. Firstly because of its magical location, but then again as a filming location for "Game Of Thrones". And it's definitely worth a visit. It is quite the looker. From the viewpoint (Mirador) you get a great view from top of it. But to really enjoy it to the fullest you need to really get close. That means heading down the stairs and the steep path leading to the island. If you are in medium shape like me, it's not really a problem. Took me about 20-30mins. Some good shoes (at least good sneakers) is a must. There's a long way around (at least double your time), in case you got a stroller or a wheelchair. Even in dry weather some parts can be slippery and there's a lot human traffic. But otherwise it's not a big deal, but the way back up is tougher than the way down. Once you made it, it's a rewarding sight. Crossing that bridge gives you fantastic views of both the island and the mainland and it's beautiful rugged beaches. Surely a must-do when in the area. There is free parking on top, but spots are limited. Be patient and wait for a spot....or park along the road like others (which is a bit dangerous though).