Cape Matxitxako
Dramatic, windswept cape with iconic lighthouses offering breathtaking views of the Cantabrian Sea and San Juan de Gaztelugatxe.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Cape Matxitxako
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dramatic, windswept cape with iconic lighthouses offering breathtaking views of the Cantabrian Sea and San Juan de Gaztelugatxe.
"It's wild, windy, and dramatic - perfect for photography, whale watching in season, or just enjoying the raw power of the ocean."
Wear Layers 🩳
It's often windy and cooler here, even in summer. Pack a jacket or sweater for comfort.
Comfortable Shoes 🥾
You'll be doing some walking on trails and uneven terrain. Sturdy footwear is a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Matxitxako Lighthouses
Cape Matxitxako
Iconic twin lighthouses standing sentinel over the dramatic coastline, offering stunning panoramic views.
Gaztelugatxe Vista
Viewpoint overlooking Gaztelugatxe
Gaze upon the legendary island of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a breathtaking sight from this vantage point.
Battle of Matxitxako Monument
Near the lighthouses
A poignant monument commemorating a significant naval battle, adding a layer of historical depth to the landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Plan for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Layers 🩳
It's often windy and cooler here, even in summer. Pack a jacket or sweater for comfort.
Comfortable Shoes 🥾
You'll be doing some walking on trails and uneven terrain. Sturdy footwear is a must!
Bring Snacks & Water 🧃
No facilities on-site, so pack provisions to enjoy a picnic with a view.
Capture the Sunset 🌅
The views are spectacular at sunset, offering a truly magical experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Layers 🩳
It's often windy and cooler here, even in summer. Pack a jacket or sweater for comfort.
Comfortable Shoes 🥾
You'll be doing some walking on trails and uneven terrain. Sturdy footwear is a must!
Bring Snacks & Water 🧃
No facilities on-site, so pack provisions to enjoy a picnic with a view.
Capture the Sunset 🌅
The views are spectacular at sunset, offering a truly magical experience.
History Buffs Rejoice 🏰
Don't miss the monument dedicated to the Battle of Matxitxako.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking, dramatic beauty of Cape Matxitxako, highlighting its stunning viewpoints, iconic lighthouses, and historical significance. The raw power of the ocean and the panoramic vistas, especially at sunset, are frequently praised. While some note the lack of facilities, most find the wild, windswept atmosphere and the historical context to be deeply rewarding.
"The Cape of Matxitxako is one of the most beautiful viewpoints on the Basque coast. From the lighthouse you get breathtaking views of the Cantabrian Sea, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, and on clear days even the Urdaibai estuary. The place is full of history too, with a monument to the Battle of Matxitxako from the Spanish Civil War. It’s wild, windy, and dramatic - perfect for photography, whale watching in season, or just enjoying the raw power of the ocean. Easy to reach by car from Bermeo, with parking nearby, but no cafés or facilities, so bring water. A must-see stop if you’re exploring the Basque coast!"
Liv
"Beautiful dramatic coastline."
Helen Wagstaff
"I am here only after listening the song # Matxitxaco by Tulsa"
Prakash Ravi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cape Matxitxako is easily accessible by car from Bermeo. There is parking available near the lighthouses, making it a convenient stop on your Basque coast exploration.
While direct public transport to the cape itself is limited, you can take a bus or train to Bermeo and then arrange local transport or a taxi to reach the cape.
Many visitors enjoy hiking along the coast. Some even hike from Matxitxako Cape Point towards Portugalete.
Yes, there is parking available near the lighthouses, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Cape Matxitxako is located near Bermeo, making it a popular and easily reachable destination from the town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to Cape Matxitxako and its viewpoints is generally free. You can explore the area without purchasing any tickets.
Cape Matxitxako is an outdoor natural area and is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best views and safety.
There is no entrance fee to visit the area around the Matxitxako lighthouses. The focus is on enjoying the natural landscape and views.
As a natural and historical site, visitors are expected to respect the environment and any historical monuments.
Yes, Cape Matxitxako is a year-round destination, though weather conditions can vary significantly. Always check the forecast before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The areas around the lighthouses offer incredible panoramic views. The viewpoint overlooking San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is also a prime photography location. 
Late afternoon, especially during the golden hour before sunset, provides dramatic lighting for stunning photographs.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant shots of Gaztelugatxe or marine life.
The dramatic interplay of the lighthouses, the rugged coastline, and the sea, especially with dynamic weather, makes for compelling shots.
Yes, the monument is a significant historical landmark and a popular subject for photographers interested in the area's past.
🎫 🌊 Nature & Wildlife
The area is known for its rich marine birdlife. In season, it's also a potential spot for whale watching.
Yes, the coastline near Bermeo, including the area around Cape Matxitxako, is classified as a Protected Biotype due to its ecological and historical significance.
Absolutely! Many visitors enjoy hiking along the coastal paths, offering immersive nature experiences.
The landscape features spectacular eroded rock formations, caves, and natural arches, showcasing the raw power of the Cantabrian Sea.
Swimming is generally not recommended due to strong currents and rough seas. The focus here is on enjoying the views from the shore.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a day with calmer weather to make the experience more comfortable for younger ones. The historical monument can also be a good talking point to introduce children to local history in an engaging way.
📸 Photographers & Nature Enthusiasts
+1Nature lovers will appreciate the rich birdlife and the rugged beauty of the protected biotype. The opportunity to spot whales in season adds another layer of excitement. The raw, untamed power of the Cantabrian Sea is truly on display here.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Active Travelers
Ensure you wear appropriate footwear, as the terrain can be uneven. The wind can be a factor, so be prepared for an invigorating experience as you explore the dramatic landscape on foot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Lighthouses of Matxitxako
Visitors often find the lighthouses to be a focal point for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset. The juxtaposition of the man-made structures with the wild, untamed ocean creates a powerful visual narrative. Exploring the area around the lighthouses provides excellent vantage points for appreciating the scale and beauty of the Basque coast.
While you can't typically enter the lighthouses themselves, their exterior presence and the surrounding landscape are more than enough to captivate any visitor. They serve as a constant reminder of the maritime traditions and the enduring power of nature in this region.
A Glimpse into History: The Battle of Matxitxako
A monument stands near the lighthouses to commemorate this significant historical event and honor the Basque sailors who fought bravely. It serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made and the turbulent past of the region. Visitors often pause here to reflect on the history embedded within the landscape.
Understanding this historical context adds another layer of depth to the visit. It transforms the cape from merely a scenic viewpoint into a place of remembrance and historical significance, connecting the present-day beauty with the echoes of the past.
The Allure of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
While Gaztelugatxe is a separate destination, the view from Cape Matxitxako offers a unique perspective, allowing you to appreciate its grandeur from a distance. It's a perfect pairing for visitors looking to experience the most iconic coastal sights of the Basque Country.
+1Seeing Gaztelugatxe from Matxitxako can inspire a visit to the island itself, or simply serve as a beautiful backdrop to the dramatic scenery of the cape. The distant view adds to the mystique and allure of this stunning stretch of coastline.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit