The access trail to the iconic islet hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, descending from the car park and crossing the stone bridge with 241 steps to the summit. Reservations required in summer.
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a rocky tidal islet near Bermeo in Bizkaia, Basque Country, linked to the mainland by a sinuous stone causeway and 241 hand-cut steps ascending to a 10th-century hermitage at its summit. The site is one of the most photographed landmarks in the Basque Country and gained further international recognition as a filming location for Game of Thrones. The car park trailhead sits approximately 3 km west of Bermeo on the BI-3101 road; a parking fee applies in summer. Mandatory advance reservations via the Basque Government online reservation system are required from June through October to manage visitor numbers; outside that period access is generally free but the site remains busy on fine-weather weekends. A seasonal free shuttle bus operates from Bermeo town centre to the car park. The round trip from the car park to the hermitage summit covers approximately 2 km with 80m of elevation gain. From the car park, the path descends steeply on concrete and stone to the causeway bridge, crosses the channel above the churning Atlantic surf, then ascends 241 stone steps to the hermitage. The steps are steep, narrow, and worn smooth in places, with exposed drops to the sea on the upper section. The trail surface is bare rock and stone with minimal shade. Key features include the stone causeway, the hermitage chapel of San Juan (open on select feast days), the bell traditionally rung by pilgrims for good luck, and cliff views north and west toward the open Bay of Biscay. No water is available on the islet. Bermeo town, 3 km away, offers cafés, restaurants, and a working fishing harbour. The islet's silhouette is best photographed from the headland viewpoint above the car park.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Bermeo, Bizkaia
- Best season
- Year-round; spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) are optimal; summer requires mandatory advance booking and is very crowded.
Highlights
- San Juan Hermitage
- Atlantic cliffscapes
- Game of Thrones filming location
- coastal flora
Tips for visiting
- Book the mandatory summer reservation through the official Basque Government portal well in advance — July and August slots sell out weeks ahead.
- Take the free seasonal shuttle bus from Bermeo to avoid car park fees and the limited summer parking supply.
- Wear non-slip footwear — the stone steps are polished smooth and become treacherous when wet from sea spray or rain.
- Ring the hermitage bell for good luck as local tradition holds, but allow other visitors adequate space on the narrow upper steps.
- Arrive at the first available morning reservation slot to photograph the causeway before midday crowds fill the steps.
- Outside the reservation season (November to May) the site is quieter and free to visit — ideal for atmospheric winter visits when conditions permit.
When to visit
Early morning spring or autumn visits combine the best light, smaller crowds, and easier reservation access; midday summer visits are the most congested.
Accessibility
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is not accessible for wheelchairs or pushchairs. The access path involves steep stone descents, a narrow causeway, and 241 steps with exposed drops on both sides. Visitors with mobility limitations should consult Bermeo tourism for mainland headland viewpoint alternatives above the car park.
Frequently asked questions
Is a reservation always required to visit Gaztelugatxe?
Reservations are mandatory from June through October. Outside this period, the site is generally open without booking, though fine-weather weekends remain busy year-round.
How many steps are there and how steep are they?
The path to the hermitage involves 241 stone steps. They are steep and irregular, particularly on the upper section, and slippery when wet. Most fit adults complete the ascent in 10–15 minutes, but the steps are challenging for those with knee or mobility issues.
Is the hermitage chapel open to enter?
The hermitage is typically only open on the feast of St John (24 June) and a small number of other religious dates. For most visitors, the exterior, bell, and summit views are the main attraction; the interior is not generally accessible.
Is there food or water available at the site?
No food or drink is sold on the islet. Visitors should carry water, especially in summer. Bermeo town, 3 km away, has cafés, restaurants, and a harbour area with fresh fish.
Was this site used in Game of Thrones?
Yes. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe served as the exterior of the Dragonstone castle in Game of Thrones, which significantly increased its international visitor profile.