San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the most famous islet of the Basque coast, offers a nice route to reach its summit, up to the hermitage. We must remember that, although there are 2 routes, 90% of the people who visit this enclave use the Urizarreta route, the most popular route. In any case, in this section we show you all the existing walking routes to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, each one with its own particularities and charms.

Route from Urizarreta.
The route from Urizarreta is known to be the most direct and popular. This path begins near the main parking lot, next to the Eneperi restaurant. About 60 meters from the restaurant we find the access control, remember that at certain times of the year it is necessary to get tickets to visit San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. We pass the checkpoint and continue descending another 180 meters until we reach a detour. On the left we have one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the area, on the right we continue descending a stretch of stairs and track until we reach the old road to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. It is at this point where the Urizarreta and Ermu routes meet. We are now close to the bridge. Now we only have to climb the 241 stairs to reach the hermitage.
Characteristics of the route:
- Distance: approximately 1.3 km. The route is relatively short, but includes a flight of stairs with quite a steep incline.
- Difficulty: Although the trail is marked, the slope and stairs can be a challenge for some people.
- Landscape: During this route we find some of the best panoramic views of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe.
- Points of Interest: The viewpoint.
Route from Ermu.
The alternative is the route that begins in Ermu, a longer route than the previous one, in which there are no stairs until you reach the bridge. Remember that if you want to reach the hermitage it is impossible to avoid the 241 stairs that separate the islet from the mainland. This option is the lesser known of the two options. A perfect route for those who are looking for a quieter and less crowded path. If you choose this route, you have to go to the Ermu access control, next to the viewpoint. From there, the route is not lost, you just have to follow the road.
Characteristics of the route:
- Distance: approximately 1.9 km. It is longer than the route from Urizarreta but does not include stairs. It is a more pleasant route but it is not free of slopes.
- Difficulty: The difficulty is similar to the Urizarreta route, the only difference being the stairs.
- Landscape: This route offers a panoramic view of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe and the island of Akatz.
- Points of Interest: The picnic area.
General recommendations.
- Regardless of the route chosen, it is important to wear comfortable shoes/clothing suitable for hiking.
- It is very important to bring water and sun protection.
- The best time of the year to visit San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is in low season, when fewer people visit this magical Basque enclave.
- San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a protected area, please, let’s conserve it together. Do not leave any residue after your visit.
- The route to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is demanding, it is not a walk.