Gaztelugatxe, Mundaka and Gernika Tour from Bilbao

Exploring Bilbao’s Hidden Gems: Gaztelugatxe, Mundaka, and Gernika Tour Review

If you’re planning a trip to Bilbao and want to see more than just the city’s vibrant streets and pintxos bars, a day trip to the surrounding Basque Country is a smart move. I recently looked into a well-rated small-group tour that hits some of the most iconic and scenic spots—Gaztelugatxe, Mundaka, and Gernika—and I think it’s worth sharing what you can expect, especially if you’re the kind of traveler who appreciates a mix of natural beauty, history, and culture.

What I love about this tour is how it balances stunning landscapes with meaningful stories. Plus, it’s designed with a personal touch, thanks to a knowledgeable guide who seems genuinely passionate about the region. On the downside, the hike at Gaztelugatxe can be pretty steep, which might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues. If you’re someone who enjoys walking and physical activity, this trip could be perfect. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day out that covers multiple highlights without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Small-group size means more personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
• The hike at Gaztelugatxe is challenging but offers breathtaking views.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with engaging stories and insights.
• Stunning scenery and historic towns provide a well-rounded day outside Bilbao.
• Price point offers good value considering the sights, transportation, and guided commentary.
• Ideal for active travelers interested in a mix of nature, culture, and history.

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This tour offers a full six hours of exploring some of the Basque Country’s most photogenic and culturally significant sites. It’s designed for travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activity, history, and local flavor, all in a relatively small group—max 15 people—which helps keep things intimate and flexible.

You’ll start in Bilbao early in the morning, with the convenience of hotel pickup if you choose that option. The journey begins with a visit to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, an island hermitage famously featured in Game of Thrones. It’s not just the location that’s captivating but the walk to reach it. The trail involves a steep climb and more than 200 steps, so it’s best to be physically prepared. But the panoramic views from the top make every step worth it, as many reviews highlight.

Next, you’ll head to Mundaka, a charming fishing village known for its impressive estuary and surf-worthy waves. We loved that this stop was more relaxed—simply walking along the pier and enjoying the fresh seaside air. It’s a good chance to take photos, breathe in the ocean breeze, and maybe grab a coffee or pintxos if you’re hungry.

Finally, the trip brings you to Gernika-Lumo, a town with deep historical roots. You’ll stroll through the Assembly Hall, market, and air shelters—places that tell stories of the Spanish Civil War. Here, you also get the opportunity to see Picasso’s famous painting, Guernica, which captures the tragedy and resilience of the Basque people. Reviewers appreciated the guide’s storytelling and how they provided context that made the visit more meaningful.

What Makes Gaztelugatxe Stand Out?

This spot is often the main event for visitors, and for good reason. The views are spectacular, especially from the top of the hermitage, perched on an island connected by a narrow, winding stone bridge. The hike there is a bit strenuous, with steep inclines and many stairs, but the effort is widely considered worthwhile by those who’ve been. A handful of reviews mention that the climb is “a good workout,” but also emphasize to wear comfortable shoes and bring water.

One reviewer shared, “Gaztelugatxe was beautiful, but be ready for a steep hike.” If you’re a fan of panoramic vistas and don’t mind a physical challenge, this destination will likely be a highlight.

Mundaka: A Quiet Coastal Treasure

Mundaka offers a different vibe—more laid-back, with beautiful views of the estuary. The town’s small size makes it perfect for a quick walk along the pier, enjoying local seafood, or simply soaking in the coastal scenery. The reviews note that Mundaka is “not to be missed” and particularly recommend trying the pintxos, with one reviewer mentioning, “Excellent pintxos at Mundaka!”

It’s a place to relax after the more demanding hike at Gaztelugatxe, and it provides a glimpse into traditional Basque fishing life.

Gernika: A Town with Depth

Gernika is a poignant stop. It’s not just about sightseeing—it’s about understanding the resilience of a town that endured one of the most devastating bombings during the Spanish Civil War. Walking through the Assembly Hall, market, and air-raid shelters, you get a sense of the town’s historical weight. The Picasso painting here is a centerpiece, vividly capturing the tragedy. Multiple reviews praise the guide’s storytelling—”Jose was quite interesting and informative,” and “He had lots of stories about Basque culture.”

This stop is shorter but packs a punch, especially if you’re interested in history or art.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The tour includes private transportation, making the entire experience smooth and comfortable. If you select the hotel pickup option, you won’t need to worry about logistics—just show up, and the bus will do the rest. The tour runs from 9:00 am, giving you a full day of exploration.

The group size is limited to 15 travelers, which is ideal for those who prefer a more personalized experience. It’s worth noting that the tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is advisable. Many reviewers emphasize wearing comfortable shoes and bringing water, especially for the Gaztelugatxe hike.

Pricing and Value for Money

At approximately $80 per person, this tour is priced competitively considering the transportation, entrance tickets, and the guidance you receive. The inclusion of an access ticket to Gaztelugatxe and the small-group setting adds to the value. Many reviews mention how much they learned from the guide and how the scenery exceeded expectations, making it feel like a good deal.

It’s important to remember that this isn’t a full-day tour—six hours is enough to see the main sights without feeling rushed, though the hiking at Gaztelugatxe might take up a good chunk of that time.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for active travelers who enjoy a good walk and are comfortable with some uphill climbing. It’s perfect if you want to see a mix of natural beauty, history, and authentic local culture in a manageable timeframe. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides make it more engaging, especially for those who appreciate stories and context alongside sightseeing.

If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, Gaztelugatxe will be a thrill, but even if you’re just after stunning views and meaningful history, this tour delivers. It offers a well-rounded glimpse into the Basque Country’s landscape and culture, making it a memorable addition to any Bilbao itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour is not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the hike at Gaztelugatxe involves steep inclines and many steps, which might be challenging for young children or those with mobility issues. Older children and active families should be fine, but it’s best to assess individual stamina.

What’s included in the tour price?
The cost covers private transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off (if selected), and an access ticket to Gaztelugatxe. Lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy something during the stops.

How long do we spend at each site?
You’ll spend about 2 hours at Gaztelugatxe, 1 hour in Mundaka, and another hour in Gernika. The times are designed to give you a taste of each without feeling rushed, but note that Gaztelugatxe takes up most of the sightseeing time due to the hike.

What should I bring for the hike?
Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are a must. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat if it’s sunny. Be prepared for a steep ascent and descent.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions, but extreme weather (like storms or high winds) might cause cancellations or delays. It’s wise to check the forecast and dress accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. If you cancel later, you may not get a refund, so plan accordingly.

This tour offers a solid glimpse into the natural and cultural riches just outside Bilbao. Whether you’re after breathtaking vistas, historic insights, or a good walk, it’s a day that can really enrich your stay in this beautiful part of Spain.