Hike Gaztelugatxe, Fishing Port Bermeo & Pintxo Lunch from Bilbao

-We will make the hike to the top of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe! Expect to spend approximately 2 hours hiking to the top and back. Please wear comfortable walking shoes. -Located just off the shore along the Bay of Biscay and 35 km (22 miles) east from Bilbao, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a definite “must” if you are visiting the Basque Country. Many will recognize San Juan de Gaztelugatxe as the island fortress of “Dragonstone” from season 7 of Game of Thrones, however, its real name can be translated as “castle rock” from Basque (“gaztelu” = castle + “aitz” = rock). -The island is connected to the mainland by a man-made stone bridge. The bridge transitions into a narrow path that contains 241 steps and zigzags its way back and forth to the top. These steps have even been recognized as one of the world’s grandest staircases.

Bermeo is a colorful coastal village located in the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve and is less than 10 km away from the impressive San Juan de Gaztelugatxe island. Famous for its fishing tradition, it is a great place to stop for a while and explore. We will enjoy some pintxos/tapas at the marina, and for a leisurely stroll through the scenic old fishing port.