Butrón Castle (Castillo de Butrón)
Butroi Auzoa, 12, Gatika, Bizkaia, 48110
With circular turrets, towering spires, and an imposing Gothic-style facade, the Castle of Butrón looks like something out of a fairytale. Built in the 11th century, the castle was fought over by warring local noble families for hundreds of years. Though the structure fell into disrepair, new owners renovated it in the late 1800s.
The basics
The Castle of Butrón is currently closed to visitors, but the castle grounds are open to the public. The gardens make a fine place for a picnic, and several pleasant trails explore the wooded areas around the property. Visit on your own from Bilbao or as part of a full-day tour of Basque towns, and see other top sights like the Vizcaya Hanging Bridge, the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, and the Old Port of Algorta.
Things to know before you go
- A must-see for medieval history buffs, the castle makes for an interesting side trip when traveling from Bilbao to San Sebastián.
- The castle grounds are free to visit.
- A paved path leads to the castle entrance, making it wheelchair accessible.
How to get there
The Castle of Butrón is located in Spain’s Basque Country, 11 miles (18 kilometers) north of Bilbao. The easiest way to get there is by car or as part of a guided tour. It's possible to go by bus from Bilbao, but requires multiple transfers. The area is also a popular place to explore on bike.
When to get there
The castle interior is not currently open to the public, but visitors can enjoy the castle exterior and grounds any time of year. July and August are the busiest times to visit Basque Country, so if you travel outside the summer season, you'll avoid crowds and save money on accommodations.
Nearby attractions
Bilbao is the largest city in Basque country, well-known for its architecture, vibrant food scene, and surrounding mountainous landscapes. The Frank Gehry–designed Guggenheim Museum is the city’s most popular sight, and the nearby San Juan de Gaztelugatxe hermitage served as the filming location for Dragonstone in the series Game of Thrones.
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