From Gernika to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe with a Boat Trip

• Visit Gernika and learn about its historical and political significance

• See the symbolic Gernika Tree and Casa de Juntas

• Explore San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, one of Spain’s most iconic coastal sites

• Optional climb of 241 steps to the hilltop hermitage (weather permitting)

• Boat trip from Bermeo or Mundaka with coastal views of Gaztelugatxe

• Immersive full-day experience blending culture, nature, and adventure

Embark on a culturally rich and visually stunning journey through the Basque Country with a full-day tour that combines history, nature, and maritime adventure.

Departing from Bilbao, your first destination is Gernika, a town that stands as a powerful symbol of Basque identity and resilience. Here, you’ll visit the famous Gernika Tree and the Casa de Juntas (Assembly House), both central to the region’s ancient laws and freedoms. Your guide will delve into the town’s profound history, including its tragic bombing during the Spanish Civil War—an event immortalized by Picasso’s renowned painting.

Next, travel to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a dramatic islet connected to the mainland by a winding stone bridge and a steep 241-step staircase (subject to weather and access). Climbing to the hermitage at the summit is optional, but for those who do, ringing its bell is said to bring good luck. The panoramic views from the top make the climb worthwhile.

To complete your experience, you’ll head to the picturesque fishing villages of Bermeo or Mundaka for a refreshing boat excursion. Cruise along the striking Basque coastline, passing cliffs and coves, and enjoy a unique sea-level view of Gaztelugatxe’s rock formations and hermitage silhouetted against the sky. The boat trip offers a perfect moment to relax, breathe in the sea air, and reflect on the landscapes and stories that define this region.

After a full day of exploration and awe, you’ll return to Bilbao enriched by the depth and diversity of Basque culture, history, and natural splendor.