FAQ

Gaztelugatxe questions, answered straight

The short version of everything in the guides — what people actually ask before they go.

Booking

Do I need to book to visit?

On days with controlled access, yes — you need a free ticket booked online.

The walk

How many steps are there?

A stone bridge and a stairway of 241 steps link the islet to the coast, between Bakio and Bermeo.

Getting there

Can I get there by bus from Bilbao?

Yes. From Bilbao's Termibus station, bus A3527 (Bilbao–Mungia–Bermeo) stops at San Juan de Gaztelugatxe.

History

How old is the hermitage?

The first hermitage is believed to date from the ninth century; the present church has been rebuilt many times.

Tours

Do tours leave time to climb up?

Check before booking. One tour from Bilbao gives two free hours at the islet for the bridge and the 241 steps; other itineraries may allow less time.