San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

Overview

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a small island connected to the mainland by a scenic stone bridge. It is famous for its picturesque hermitage dedicated to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, which has been featured in popular TV shows.

The hermitage is believed to have been built in the 10th century and is an important historical and religious site. Its unique location and dramatic setting have made it a popular tourist destination.

Historical Site Religious Site Scenic Viewpoint

Location

Address

Bizkaia

Neighborhood: Coastal area

Coordinates

43.439800, -2.931000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Admission

Adults

Free (as of 2023, but donations are appreciated)

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

April-June, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild, rainy

• wildflowers
• mild temperatures

summer

hot, dry

• long daylight hours
• warm temperatures

autumn

mild, cool

• autumn colors
• mild temperatures

winter

cold, rainy

• storm watching
• cozy atmosphere

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Wear comfortable shoes
Check weather forecast

What to Bring

essential

ID water tickets

seasonal

jacket umbrella raincoat

not allowed

large bags drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate (steep climb, uneven surfaces)

• cliff edges
• slippery surfaces when wet

Medical facilities: first aid available on site

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit/debit cards

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Typical Costs

entry Free (as of 2023)

parking €2

food/beverages €5-15

souvenirs €5-20

Dress Code

casual, comfortable, comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes, sneakers, inappropriate clothing, high heels, flip-flops

Booking Tips

• at least a week
• official website
• 48 hours
• available (book online)

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Bizkaiko Foru Aldundia

Size: 35 MB

Features: Map of the area, Information about the hermitage and its history, Audio guide, Tickets, Local events and festivals

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Near the hermitage

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Bilbao Airport (BIO)

Distance: 35 km

Travel Time: 40 minutes

taxi

€50-60 40 min

public_transport

€5-10 1 hour 15 min

From City Center

Distance: 25 km

bus

€2.50 50 min

taxi

€30-40 30 min

car

€5-10 (parking) 30 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique historical and religious site with stunning views, a source of local pride

Historical Significance: The hermitage is believed to have been built in the 10th century and is an important historical and religious site. It is said to have been founded by a monk named Juan de Gaztelugatxe, who lived as a hermit on the island.

Insider Tips

The hermitage is free to enter, but you can donate to help with its maintenance
The best views can be found at the top of the island, near the hermitage
The stone bridge connecting the island to the mainland is a popular spot for photos, but it can get crowded, especially during peak season

Local Recommendations

• Try the local pintxos (Basque tapas) in Bakio
• Ask locals about the legend of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
• Visit the nearby Bakio Beach for a relaxing swim after your visit

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hola

thank_you Gracias

where_is ¿Dónde está?

how_much ¿Cuánto cuesta?

beautiful Bonito

ticket Entrada

Guide Languages: Spanish, Basque (Euskara), English, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Stone bridge

Best Time: Golden hour (sunset)

Tips: Wide-angle shot to capture the entire bridge and the hermitage

Result: Stunning sunset views

#SanJuanDeGaztelugatxe #Bakio #Spain #Travel #Photography

Hermitage

Best Time: Early morning

Tips: Low angle shot to emphasize the hermitage's grandeur

Result: Dramatic architectural shots

#SanJuanDeGaztelugatxe #Hermitage #Spain #Architecture #Travel

Cliff edges

Best Time: Sunset

Tips: Use a zoom lens for safety and to capture the dramatic coastline

Result: Breathtaking coastal views

#SanJuanDeGaztelugatxe #CoastalViews #Sunset #Spain #Nature

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, cliff edges (with caution)

prohibited areas inside the hermitage (out of respect for worshippers)

flash photography not allowed inside the hermitage, discouraged in other areas to avoid disturbing wildlife

commercial photography permit needed for commercial use

drone policy prohibited without prior authorization

tripod policy allowed but must not obstruct pathways or other visitors

selfie sticks allowed but must be used with caution, especially near cliff edges

Nearby Attractions

Bakio Beach

Distance: 2.5 km

Walking: 30 min

Type: Beach

Museum of the Encartaciones

Distance: 12 km

Walking: N/A

Type: Museum

Gaztelugatxe Nature Reserve

Distance: 0.5 km

Walking: 10 min

Type: Nature Reserve

Reviews

4.5

Based on 5,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Wear comfortable shoes"
"Bring water"
"Arrive early to avoid crowds"
"Respect the religious significance of the hermitage"
"Enjoy the stunning views"

Contact Information

+34 946 136 746

turismoa@bizkaia.eus

www.bizkaia.eus

Social Media

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