So we went to Gaztelugatxe as you can see from the picture above it was a busy day!
We took a local bus 3518 from downtown Bilbao to Bakio on the coast and due to my iffy back, took a taxi to the village about 1.1km about Gaztelugatxe. (The parking lot)
Then we took the shorter winding path down (with many stairs) approx 1.5km, and the 241 steps up the other side, and had a picnic on the top. We walked back the longer (3-4km, road route, I had pulled my back while in Ireland and had residual pain on stairs, so the high steps on the short cut climbing back up the hill may have been a problem. I would recommend the road down, for anyone who's knees don't appreciate the higher stair. (You get to the parking lot and keep walking to the NW and you will see the road path going down.)
We both rang the bell and made our wishes, probably for a helicopter to lift us back up the hill to the village.
It was wonderful day, crowds and all, and no back pain so that was a plus! I found extra info on the EuskoGuide - link is below.
Kathy
EuskoGuide tells us:
The climb down the hill, across the bridge and up to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a small adventure that will handsomely reward you with truly impressive views. The ocean can be particular rough in this area and the waves really crash against the rocks of the island, adding to its awe-inspiring beauty. If you think it looks cool in the photos, just wait till you experience it in person.
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, whose name means “castle rock” in Basque (“gaztelu” = castle + “aitz” = rock), is a definite “must” if you are visiting the Basque Country. It is an island located just off the shore along the Bay of Biscay, 35 km east from Bilbao. The island is cone-shaped and features a tiny church on its highest point that is dedicated to John the Baptist. Although not proven, it has been said that he even set foot on the island.
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is connected to the mainland by a man-made stone bridge. The bridge transitions into a narrow path that contains 241 steps and zigzags its way back and forth to the top. Once there, you will find the church which has a bell situated along the front of its facade. According to legend, after you have completed the climb, you should ring the bell three times and make a wish.
http://www.euskoguide.com/places-basque-country/spain/san-juan-de-gaztelugatxe/