Bermeo
TownFerdinand II made Bermeo capital of the Lordship of Biscay in 1476, and it held the title until 1602.
What it actually is
Bermeo is the most important fishing port in the Basque Country and makes no attempt to hide it: the harbour is full of working deep-sea boats and the tourism is incidental. Tall painted houses stack above the old port, overlooked by the Ercilla Tower, which has held the Fishermen’s Museum since 1948.
Gaztelugatxe, and why you must book
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the islet crowned by a hermitage and reached by a causeway and 241 steps, lies inside the municipal boundary. It is the most photographed place on the coast, which is the problem: a free timed ticket must be booked in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a ticket for Gaztelugatxe?
Yes, a free timed ticket, booked ahead.
How many steps?
241, from the causeway up to the hermitage.
Is Bermeo worth staying in?
A working port, not a resort, but well placed for Gaztelugatxe.
Explore more of the Costa Vasca
Bermeo is one of many destinations on the CostaMap interactive map — browse beaches, coves, castles and viewpoints across the coast.