San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

What a perfect Sunday! This morning Summer, our host mom Jone, her friend Fernando, and I took a day trip to Bermeo, about 40 minutes from Bilbao, to visit San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. The day was beautiful, around 60 degrees and sunny, and the drive there was very scenic. Once we arrived, we drank coffee at a little restaurant at the beginning of the hike. The hike down to the start was very steep and rocky, but it was totally worth it. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is a basque treasure. The view of this tiny church located on top of a little island in the middle of the sea is breathtaking, an absolute must see if you're ever in Basque Country. We hiked up a 200 or so stairs to the top of this island, where the church is located. Once we arrived, we took an hour or so to enjoy the view, eat sandwiches while looking out at the sea, and take a nap on a grassy knoll at the top of a cliff. A special part of this church is the bell; according to legend, if you make a wish and ring the bell three times, your wish will come true. The views from every direction were breathtaking, and this place is truly special to everyone who visits.

Starting our hike up to San Juan

Our view from where we napped on top of the island

Ringing the bell after making my wish

After we had hiked back to the car, Jone told us that she had made plans to stop by her daughter Ana's House for coffee. Ana lives Halfway between Bilbao and Bermeo, and is the first person I've met in Spain so far who actually lives in a House. We spend the evening sitting out on the patio, eating cheese and chocolate. It was really fun spending time with Jone's family, and we all planned a dinner soon, when her third daughter comes to visit. It was the first time we spend the day with Jone and I really enjoyed getting to know her and her family better!

With my host mom Jone and roommate Summer

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

Bermeo, Spain