When people talk about Spain, they are taken through the winding roads of the Spanish countryside driving along with the cast of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara. Walking through the sunny streets of Spain smelling of oranges & tapas is everyone’s dream. Spain has so much more to offer than just running after the bulls or jumping out of the sky. One of such locations is the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, an islet along the coast of the Pays Basque region of Spain.
The wild and untouched San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
Pays Basque is lined by thrilling locations along its coast but seeing the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, it looks wild and untouched. Gaztelugatxe in Basque means “castle” which is a tiny church atop the hill. The Church today can be accessed by a 10th-century bridge. The fantastic stone bridge and the 241 winding stairs are the main attraction that connects the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe to the mainland Spain.
As you walk towards the bridge, you can see the cascading stone structure along the pathway that adds to the charm of this place. The islet is surrounded by Azure blue water and the sound of the waves splashing against the rugged stone walls. Once atop, let the view take over you. There are benches around the church to let you enjoy your recent mini-summit. The salty wind, and the sound of squealing seagulls, and the ringing of church bells are meditating to the lost souls.
The hidden magic of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is considered a pilgrimage place by the local fishermen. The legend says, “He who makes the efforts to climb up the stairs, and ring the church bell three times, will have his wishes fulfilled”. The fishermen around the region flock to get their wishes fulfilled before every season. The church was initially built by the Knights Templar dedicated to the John the Baptiste but was burned, destroyed, looted many times over the years. And, each time it was rebuilt.
In recent years although it has gained fame due to being one of the filming locations of Game of Thrones. Unfortunately, unlike the GoT where you'd find the impressive castle set at the pinnacle, in real life it is the church of the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, which in my opinion is equally impressive!
How to get to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
The easiest way to reach the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is by car as it is very remotely located.
You could also take the bus from the main station in Bilbao. Take the A3518 green Bizkaia bus to Bakio. Buses run every 30 minutes and the ride is approximately 45 minutes.
From Bakio, you have a 4-kilometer hike along the coast to get to Gaztelugatxe. Or you can try to take a second minibus, A3524, from Bakio to Bermeo, which passes by the entrance to Gaztelugatxe. The schedule for the second bus is quite unreliable and hiking is the best option.
On my second visit, we also found some private tours taking minibuses to the entrance but they are around only in the peak season.
Pro tips:
1) On your way up do not forget to try the coffee and tortilla patata (Potato omelette)
2) The beach at Bakio is the epitome of a Spanish beach. Sun, popped up beach umbrellas, children screaming and lined with ice-cream shops. So do not forget to carry that beachwear for a swim on your way back!
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