Is San Juan de Gatzelugatxe worth visiting on the Camino Norte

[tangogypsy]

Is San Juan de Gatzelugatxe worth visiting on the Camino Norte?

 

[trecile]

Try searching for Gaztelugatxe in the search box above. I found several threads with information, including these:

https://www.caminodesantiago.me/community/threads/a-side-trip-to-san-juan-de-gaztelugatxe.48776/

https://www.caminodesantiago.me/community/threads/side-trip-best-route-method-to-gaztelugatxe.56366/#post-633798

 

[WestKirsty]

It's a memorable spot for sure! I didn't visit when doing the Camino but have been several other times.

It's worth noting though that depending on when you would consider going, you may need to book in advance. Since it was used in scenes of Game of Thrones, it's become very popular and there were long lines to visit.

You now need a ticket with a reserved time slot to visit during high tourism times - summer, Easter etc. I believe it's still free though. You can reserve your entrance here: https://www.tiketa.eus/gaztelugatxe/?lang=en

I'm pleased I've seen it as it is quite spectacular, but it can get very, very busy in the summer - even with the ticketing system. Just a heads up on that!

 

[amancio]

not quite on the Camino del Norte, it would be a detour, but definitely worth it!

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

A short video with views in case one is not familiar with Gatzelugatxe.

 

[pjacobi]

What? No Dragonstone castle on the hill with dragons flying overhead?

Yes, the exterior castle and the dragons were all digital additions. The beach and castle doors were shot somewhere else which opened on to a green screen to digital add-in the walkway. Inside the castle was shot on a sound stage in Ireland. Only the scenes on the path itself were filmed here.


-Paul

 

[annmte]

I LOVED it - one of the highlights of my Camino del Norte this spring. Possibly since I only learned upon arriving in Bilbao on May 5 that it had only reopened days before - after 2 years of closure. The weather that day was spectacular and it exceeded all expectations for me. No dragons necessary! It’s an amazing spot.