Castillo de Butrón
Just 20 kilometers north of Bilbao, Butrón Castle is a unique architectural gem in the Basque Country. Although its origins date back to the Middle Ages, the current neo-Gothic structure was rebuilt in the 19th century to give it a fairytale appearance. Located in the middle of a lush forest, the castle offers a magical atmosphere and is a perfect destination for a day trip from Bilbao.
Although the interior is not open to the public, the exterior and gardens are freely accessible and well worth a visit. The area is ideal for strolling, having a picnic, or taking photos of its imposing façade. Additionally, its proximity to places like Mungia and Plentzia allows you to complement your visit with other experiences, such as enjoying local cuisine or relaxing on the Cantabrian coast.
With your car, you can easily reach the castle and enjoy the freedom to explore nearby locations. This spot is ideal for a half-day excursion or as part of a longer route along the coast of Biscay.
Recommended time: Half Day
Trip type: Nature, Cultural
Distance: 12.0 km
Time on road: 15 min
Here are five must-do activities to make the most of your visit to Butrón Castle and its surroundings:
1. Admire the exterior of Butrón Castle: As soon as you arrive, you will be amazed by its imposing façade surrounded by centuries-old trees. Stroll through its gardens, explore the paths surrounding the fortress, and admire every architectural detail, including its towers, Gothic windows, and drawbridge. It’s an ideal place for photography enthusiasts.
2. Explore the surroundings of the Butrón River: The natural environment is perfect for a relaxing walk along the Butrón River. You can enjoy the peacefulness of the forest and, with a bit of luck, spot some of the birds that inhabit the area.
3. Visit Mungia and its local wineries: Just a 10-minute drive away, Mungia is a charming small town where you can wander through its old town and visit local wineries to taste wines and txakoli, the typical Basque white wine. Some guided tours explain the production process and offer pairings with local products.
4. Enjoy the coast in Plentzia: Located 15 km from the castle, Plentzia offers a beautiful golden sand beach and a picturesque harbor where you can take a stroll or relax with a drink by the sea. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can also rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the estuary.
5. Have lunch in a traditional restaurant: The area around Gatika and nearby towns features cider houses, grill houses, and traditional restaurants where local cuisine takes center stage. Don’t miss dishes like Biscayan-style cod or delicious fried squid rings. To finish, treat yourself to a typical dessert such as pantxineta (a pastry filled with custard cream) or cream-filled cannoli. Without a doubt, this lunch will be an unforgettable part of your route.
Where to Park
Butrón Castle: There is a small free parking lot next to the castle, but it’s advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season.
Mungia: The town offers several public parking areas.
Plentzia: Parking is available near the beach and harbor, although it can fill up quickly in the summer.
Recommended Cars for Traveling in Bilbao
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Toyota Yaris
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Advantages of booking your rental car with Gobycar
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