SAN JUAN DE GAZTELUGATXE 241 steps to heaven

HOW TO VISIT On foot

From the sea (itcanbeseenbutnotaccessed)

Public transport

Car Park

Remember that it is a protected biotope so access is controlled and a prior reservation is required.

Respect the natural environment and use appropriate footwear. Thepathisdemanding,notsuitableforpeoplewith disabilities,respiratoryorheartproblems,norisit adaptedforpushchairs.

Matxitxako Lighthouse

Protected Natural Biotope

It’s worth the effort. You will see one of the most impressive parts of this wild coastline.

In the town of Bermeo, you will be able to see this lighthouse, whose first structure dating back to the19th century is not used any more, whilst the 20th century one is still in use

Akatz and Izaro Islands

This large islet is connected to the mainland by an isthmus formed by two large arches. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe has deeply rooted connections to the arrantzales (fishermen), and there are offerings from sailors saved from the sea inside the hermitage that bears his name, such as models of boats and paintings portraying vessels about to be shipwrecked. Legend has it that, on arriving in Bermeo, San Juan took three large steps before reaching the hermitage... the third of which was on the last step. Don't be lazy. Climb the stairs because the spectacular location makes it a place well worth visiting.

In the area around the Matxitxako headland, in addition to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, there is also the islet of Akatz and the island of Izaro, which housed a Franciscan convent in ancient times and is the island that gave its name to the famous film production company, Izaro Films. They are both home to colonies of marine birds of great interest.