How to Hike San Juan de Gaztelugatxe (aka: Dragonstone) in Bilbao, Spain
A quick guide to hiking one of Northen Spain's most stunning landmarks.
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a hike near Bilbao, Spain that’s famous because of the popular TV show, Game of Thrones. And it’s no wonder they choose this beautiful section of Spain’s northern coast as Daenerys’s home, Dragonstone—it’s imposing yet captivating, just like the mother of dragons herself.
This iconic hike is a must-do for Game of Thrones fans and nature-lovers alike. With incredible views of the beautiful Basque Country, a rugged rocky coastline, and the green forests of the north, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a hike you won’t forget.
My husband Pedro loves Game of Thrones, and he had the best time pointing out all the spots where they filmed—and taking pictures and videos along the way.
I’ve been to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe three times now, and have successfully hiked it twice (the first time, it was a holiday and unfortunately we didn’t know it was going to be closed).
Yet, it never ceases to impress.
Where Exactly Is San Juan de Gaztelugatxe?
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a small islet on Spain’s Northern coast, near the Basque town of Bakio. It’s about 40 minutes by car from the city of Bilbao. This stunning coastal wonder is something you do not want to miss on your trip to the north of Spain.
How to Get to the Trailhead from Bilbao
If you’re renting a car, it takes about 40 minutes to get to the parking lot where you can start the hike. But, you don’t need to rent a car just to do the hike. Getting to the trailhead by bus is straightforward and affordable.
The bus to the town of Bakio leaves from the Plaza de Federico Moyúa (right in front of the Starbucks). The bus runs hourly Monday-Saturday. It costs just 3.40€ per person and the trip takes about 45 minutes.
Look for the 3518 bus to Bakio (it’s green and white and you’ll see the word “Bakio” at the front of the bus). Pay as soon as you get on the bus, with either cash or card. You’ll get off at the last stop once you reach the town of Bakio.
(There’s also an additional bus that will take you from the Bakio bus stop to the trailhead, but it comes every two hours, so it’s usually quicker just to walk.)
What to Know About The Hike
You must make an online reservation to hike. If you’re planning on hiking during the summer months (June through September), or weekends or holidays, you will need to reserve a free entrance ticket online. It’s easy and free. Just go to this website to make a reservation.
There are 241 stairs to the top. Get ready to climb! Once you get to the entrance of the islet, the rest of the way to the top is all stone stairs.
Hiking distance from Bakio: about 3 km (1.8 miles). The hike to the chapel at the top of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe has quite a bit of uphill climbs, but it’s not a long hike.
Total hiking time: 2-3 hours. At a normal pace, and stopping to take pictures, you’ll be able to get to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe and back in 2-3 hours.
The north of Spain is very rainy. Bring a raincoat and an umbrella because in the beautiful north of Spain, it’s almost always raining. You can still hike in the rain, just be careful not to slip on the wet stones, especially in the steeper spots.
Best Time of Year To Visit Bilbao, Spain
If you’d like to avoid hiking in the rain, plan your trip for August. Summer months have drier, warmer weather—though the Basque Country gets rain almost year round.
If you’re aiming for fewer crowds, try coming in April, May, September, or October (just make sure you bring a rain jacket). We went in January 2026 and lucked out—the day we hiked San Juan de Gaztelugatxe was the only day of the trip that it didn’t rain!
After living in Santander for six months, the north of Spain will always have a special place in my heart. It’s full of stunning picturesque green landscapes, wonderful people, and delicious culinary creations.
Cities like Bilbao, Santander, and San Sebastian are well worth a visit—especially in the vibrant summer months. If you’re nearby, you might also like to:
Visit Palacio de la Magdalena in Santander—a free, beautiful green park with amazing coastal views, a small zoo with seals and penguins, and a stunning royal palace (where they filmed my favorite Spanish TV show, Gran Hotel).
Do a pintxo tour of Bilbao—spend the night bar-hopping and trying unique and flavorful bites. My guide has everything you need to know for an unforgettable foodie pintxo tour.
Rent a Vespa and explore San Sebastian—This was one of the most memorable activities we did in Spain. Exploring the coast of San Sebastian by motorcycle (and making it to the top of Mount Igueldo) is so much fun.