This is one of the most beautiful locations in Northern Spain and well worth a visit. Apparently it is a GOT location. We went via a guide who drove us from a pickup point in Bilbao, but I'm sure it would be possible by bus. The walk down to the bridge is rough stones which I imagine would be slippery in wet weather. There are 241 steps once you get over the bridge, but if you are reasonably fit it shouldn't be a problem. You can stop as often as you like. Once you get to the top where the church is there are no facilities so bring snacks or a packed lunch as it is a lovely place to stay for a while. The church itself wasn't open but by placing your mobile flat against the window it is possible to get a photo of the inside. There is also a shelter built at the top where you can sit out of the sun or rain. On the way back it is uphill but again you can stop and rest if you need to. It would not be suitable for prams, wheelchairs or anyone with walking disabilities because of the rough stone path and all the steps. There are bathroom facilities at the car park and there is a bar/ restaurant at the start which was closed when we were there so maybe worth checking out times before you go. There was an ice-cream vendor there which maybe served coffee as well...I'm not sure.

Stunning scenery. It was closed for renovations so you cannot walk to the site but the views from the path are incredible. Wear walking boots or trainers with good grip as it is slippy. Not for the unfit as it’s steep. Highly recommend going in cooler months.

One of the highlights of our trip! Fascinating history, scan the QR codes to learn more, and apparently home to Dragons more recently. This walk isn't for the faint hearted - I tracked our walk and it's 2 miles from the free car park, and 778ft of elevation (down, up and back again). The first part of the walk is mainly slopes and long steps, then up to the church are smaller steeper steps - see photos. Do: take water, wear sensible shoes, wait if the small free car park is full as it turns over fairly quickly and have an icecream when you get back to the top near the car park - you've earnt it!! Don't: rush! Enjoy the views, and take your time. We're both runners so quite fit, so but even we were a bit puffy by the time we got back to the top.

FANTASTIC world class location. The young and fit could do the whole journey, but we stopped at the excellent observation point a couple of hundred metres from the top. Don’t just stay in the cafe bar. You have to go down a bit for the full view.

We drove here and did not park at the first lot up above to the left, because there is another larger parking lot below. You can reach the lower lot by heading down further, past a wooden building on your right, and then up to the left to park. Walk down to the entrance trail to the right; it has a wooden gate that says Gaztelugatxe. Continue on the trail until you reach the bottom of Gaztelugatxe; it not a short walk. You will see the ocean first and then finally the glorious view of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. We got up very early in San Sebastian to get there by 9:00, and I got glorious photos because no one was walking up yet, totally worth it! Once you reach the stone steps, you start your climb to the top. I would avoid doing this at all costs if it raining hard as the stone would be slippery coming down and photos could be lousy. The vistas left and right support your climb to the top where there is a chapel. This is a must! Our family members were older and in their 70's but fit and they easily made the climb. It is a must do!

Highly recommend visiting and taking in this very unique destination of historic proportions. The climb and the views are breathtaking. Just wish we could have rung the bell at the top but conquering the 231-237 stairs to the top was worth the climb.

The place is really beautiful and worth visiting. I was in July and yes, unfortunately is really crowded but I still had a chance to have some stops to contemplate. If you would like to have more peaceful experience, choose longer route through park and choose going outside of vacation season. And remember that going there is free of charge but you need to reserve tickets at least week earlier. And please, respect nature and do not go if you do not like walking at all. Walking calmly up with taking some stops, I still managed to be on the island in about 30 minutes. It looks scary but it isn’t! But there are many steps and sometimes slippery, take good shoes and do not take small kids. And to tourist - please respect others and do not shout at the top, if you are not interested in looking at the view, hear sea waves or pray/meditate - just don’t go there, you will annoy others and feel bored. And yes, if you want calmness maybe it will be better to be there early in the morning or on the last slot.

Weather permitting, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is an absolute must-visit for anyone traveling to the Basque Country. This enchanting islet, connected to the mainland by a winding stone bridge and a steep staircase of 241 steps, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and a touch of magic. On our first visit, a thick fog did not allow to appreciate the views so we did not hike to the islet. This time, the weather was clear so we were able to make the challenging journey. But every step is worth it. As you ascend, you’re treated to breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the azure waters The path is well-maintained, but be prepared for a bit of a workout. Once you reach the summit, the small chapel dedicated to St. John the Baptist awaits, along with the tradition of ringing the bell three times and making a wish. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a magical destination that combines stunning natural scenery, rich history, and a bit of pop culture. And, the return trip to the top is hard but it is an experience you won't forget. Loved it!

Spectacular view! San Juan is a one-of-a-kind fairytale experience. We went for landscape photography and it was our trip's highlight with a dark cloudy sunset with a burning pink cloud where the sun was setting (very Game of ''Throne-ny")! Note on the path: there is a stair path that is quite steep so be careful if you have joint pain because it's going to be a short way down and a long way up. Wear comfortable shows! Go with the longer, but more gentle, path if you prefer a longer stroll (also steep at some points). Note on the booking: during high season and holidays you need to make a reservation well in advance but you can visit without a ticket before 9.30 am and after 7 pm.