San Juan de Gaztelugatxe | Bilbao

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a stunning island and historic chapel located off the coast of the Basque Country, in northern Spain, near the town of Bermeo. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Biscay region, known for its dramatic setting, rugged cliffs, and striking views over the Bay of Biscay. The site is famous for its medieval chapel, steep staircase, and its connection to both Basque culture and international pop culture, as it was featured in the popular TV series Game of Thrones.

Key Features of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe:

Location and Natural Beauty:

• San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a small island connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway and a long stone bridge. The island is crowned by the Hermitage of San Juan, a medieval chapel dedicated to Saint John the Baptist.
• The island’s dramatic landscape is characterized by towering cliffs, steep hills, and a rugged coastline that makes it one of the most visually striking locations in the Basque Country. The setting, surrounded by the roaring waves of the Atlantic Ocean, gives the site a sense of isolation and beauty.

The Chapel of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe:

• The chapel at the top of the island is dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, and it has a long history dating back to the 10th century, though it has undergone various renovations and changes over the centuries.
• Pilgrims and visitors alike have come to the chapel to pay homage to Saint John, and it remains a place of religious significance for the local people. The chapel’s altar contains a statue of San Juan, and visitors often ring the chapel's bell three times for good luck, a local tradition.

The Famous Staircase:

• One of the most remarkable features of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is its steep staircase that leads from the mainland causeway to the top of the island, where the chapel is located. The staircase consists of 231 steps, many of which are carved directly into the rock, and it ascends nearly 200 meters (650 feet) above sea level.
• The climb is a memorable part of the experience, as visitors wind their way up the stairs, surrounded by dramatic views of the ocean and the cliffs. The effort to reach the top is rewarded with spectacular views and the serene atmosphere of the chapel.

Iconic Bridge and Causeway:

• To reach the island, visitors first cross a narrow stone bridge that spans a deep crevice, before walking along a causeway that leads to the base of the staircase. The bridge and causeway provide excellent vantage points for photographers and those wanting to capture the dramatic scenery of the area.
• The island itself is only accessible by foot, ensuring that its remote and pristine character remains intact.

Popularity from Game of Thrones:

• San Juan de Gaztelugatxe gained global recognition when it was featured in the hit TV series Game of Thrones. In Season 7, the island was used as the setting for Dragonstone, the ancestral seat of House Targaryen, and the location of Daenerys Targaryen’s invasion of Westeros.
• The island’s unique setting, with its steep stairs and ancient chapel, made it a perfect backdrop for the fictional Dragonstone, drawing thousands of fans from around the world to visit the site.

Hiking and Surrounding Nature:

• San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is part of a beautiful natural area, with hiking paths that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline. The area is part of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve that is home to diverse wildlife and lush vegetation.
• The hiking trails around the area offer a chance to explore the cliffs, coves, and forests, and provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching and photography.

Environmental Preservation:

• Due to its popularity and environmental importance, the island and its surroundings are carefully preserved. Visitor numbers are monitored, and a reservation system was introduced to manage the flow of tourists and protect the natural beauty of the site.
• Efforts are made to ensure that visitors can enjoy the area while minimizing the impact on the delicate environment.

Access and Visitor Information:

• The site is located about 35 kilometers (22 miles) from Bilbao, making it easily accessible by car or public transport. The nearest town is Bermeo, a picturesque coastal village with restaurants, shops, and accommodations.
• It is recommended to arrive early, especially during the high tourist season, as the site can get crowded. Visitors should be prepared for the physical challenge of climbing the 231 steps to the top, but the journey is well worth the effort.

Legend and Mythology:

• San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is steeped in Basque mythology and legends. One popular tale is that the island was the home of a dragon that would fly around the cliffs, which may explain the island’s association with Dragonstone in Game of Thrones.
• Locals believe that the island is enchanted, and it is said that if you make a wish while ringing the chapel’s bell three times, your wish will come true.

Nearby Attractions:

• In addition to the beauty of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe itself, the surrounding Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve offers many other natural attractions, including the Mundaka beach, which is famous for its surfing and natural beauty.
• Bermeo, the nearest town, is also worth exploring, with its traditional Basque architecture, harbor, and seafood restaurants.

Conclusion:

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is one of the Basque Country’s most iconic and picturesque landmarks. The dramatic island, connected to the mainland by a stone bridge and steep staircase, offers visitors an unforgettable experience of natural beauty, history, and culture. Whether you are a Game of Thrones fan, a lover of nature, or someone seeking a spiritual or scenic adventure, this awe-inspiring site is a must-visit destination in the Basque Country. The island’s combination of rugged cliffs, historic chapel, and stunning views makes it a true gem of the northern Spanish coastline.