There are few places in this world that can take you to a different time. Take you to a century long past. A time when you feel the history in your bones and can’t help but experience a sense of life back then. Butron Castle is one of these special places.
Butron Castle does not disappoint. Some places claim to be a castle but disappoint. But Butron exceeds expectations. It’s the classic castle from childhood fairytales, with fortress-like features fit for a princess. It’s a rare sight in the modern era.
Visiting Bilbao? You might be interested in our Ultimate Travel Guide To Bilbao.
Getting There
Castle Butron by Car
Butron Castle is found in a rural area surrounded by forest. Luckily, it is only 20km from downtown Bilbao. It is reachable by car in about 20-25 minutes. There are no tolls along the way. Unless, you go through the Artxanda tunnel. The toll is around a Euro.
Castle Butron by Bus
Getting to Butron can also be reached through public transportation. The simplest way to get there is using the BizkaiBus. BizkaiBus is green while the local BilboBus is red. The fare for the bus is around two Euros.
Take bus A3225 from Moyua Plaza to Mungia. To catch bus A3225 you need to be at the bus stop in front of the Deutsche Bank located on the east side of the plaza. The Butroe (Butron in Basque) stop is the 20 stop upon departure. Don’t worry, the buses indicate what the next stop is so you don’t have to count every stop that passes. Look for the bus to indicate the next stop is “Butroe.”
Once you’re off the bus you’ll want to keep walking in the direction the bus was going. If you look to the left you will be able to see the top of the high tower of the castle standing out above the trees. You will want to take your first left about 100 meters from the bus stop. Follow this road for a few minutes and you will arrive at the front of the castle.
The BizkaiBus website (no english version).
Things To Do Nearby Castle Burton
In the Park
Castle Butron has a several different things to do while you visit the area. There is a restaurant next to the parking lot that offers you the ability to spend the whole day in the area if you would like to. Alternatively, there is a grassed picnic area and a playground for young children.
There is also a small stone church called Nuestra Señora del Camino. It sits on the hillside when you approach the entrance to Castle Butron. This small place of worship isn’t large or ornate but it is work walking around.
Hiking And Biking Trails
There are a number of choices when it comes to hiking and biking in the area. There are trail that go up into the mountains as well as a trail that will lead you to the ocean.
Plentzia Loop
Starting from the Butron Castle parking lot, this easy circular route covers a distance of 16.1 km (10.02 mi) with an elevation gain and loss of 328 m (1,076 ft), reaching a maximum elevation of 189 m (620 ft) at the antenna-topped summit of Ganes. The technical difficulty of the trail is easy and follows the red and white GR markers through the park near the fronton, towards Urduliz, passing charming caserios and rolling hills. From Urduliz, follow the asphalt path for the descent before linking up with a trail that leads back to the Plentzia metro station. Mountain bikers can also enjoy this route.
Castle Butron To Arabians Dam
As you depart from the castle and cross the bridge, keep the river to your left and proceed straight until the end of the expansive parking lot. Here, you’ll find an asphalt road on the left, nestled between trees and seldom used by vehicles. While walking along this road, you’ll catch glimpses of the river through the trees, but it’s not until the end of the nearly 2 km stretch that you’ll reach a wooden structure located behind the Arbinas dam where the river comes fully into view.
Nearby Towns
Urduliz
Urduliz is a charming rural village located on the left bank of the river Butrón, with a plan to expand to include new residential areas. The leisure area in the urban area features the stunning 18th century Santa María church and the 17th century Torrebarri palace, along with tables, benches, and barbecues. The hermitage of Santa Marina is also worth visiting for breathtaking views of the coast, and the Errotaxu mill, one of the oldest in the region, is still operational. Don’t miss the Andra Mari festival in September for music performances and other events.
Plentzia
Plentzia is known for its dramatic changes between high and low tide. During high tide, the river appears to flow upstream in reverse, creating a breathtaking sight to behold. In contrast, during low tide, boats rest seemingly haphazardly on the exposed bedrock, creating a new and interesting landscape.
But the real gem of Plentzia is its beautiful white sand beach, which is spacious and perfect for sunbathing. Visitors can lay down their towels and enjoy the sun’s warmth, while young children can enjoy themselves at the small playground located adjacent to the walking path. As a renowned surfing destination, it is not uncommon to see surfers on the break line catching waves. With breaks for all levels of riders, it’s the perfect place to catch a wave. During peak season, lifeguards will mark out the surfing area with flags to ensure everyone’s safety.
Sopela
Sopela, in particular, is a paradise for beach and surfing lovers. The beaches in Sopela are renowned for their pristine sands and crystal clear waters. Its the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Sopela is also a prime surfing destination, with waves that are perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers.
The Paseo de la Galea is a unique and unforgettable experience that truly has it all. From the stunning beaches to the epic views and world-class surfing, this coastal adventure has something for everyone. Whether you choose to explore the entire route or just part of it, you won’t be disappointed.
Mungia
Nestled in the tranquil and charming region of Biscay lies a place where life can slow down and one can enjoy the peace and quiet. The city center offers plenty of attractions to keep you entertained without making you feel the need to rush around. At the heart of the city lies the cultural hub, Matxin Enparantza Plaza, which serves as the main plaza of the area. This square is conveniently located near many of the local sights, making it a popular destination among visitors.
The plaza boasts an impressive feature that sets it apart – a giant M monument proudly displaying the city and Basque flags. The ayuntamiento (city hall) adds to the beauty of the square. It is easy to see why Matxin Enparantza Plaza is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Gorliz
The Gorliz oceanside promenade is famous for its beautiful stroll. It is considered one of the most delightful oceanfront walks in Biscay (Bizkaia). Spanning from Plentzia to Astondo, this promenade provides an excellent activity for people of all ages. Whether you want to walk, bike or hit the beach (playa), it’s the place to be. This promenade sets the standard for what an ocean walk should be.
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking views of the Gorliz lighthouse, the tallest in the Basque Country, by taking a leisurely hike up to its peak. The gradual hike takes approximately 90 minutes and begins at the Bay of Plentzia in Gorliz, ascending above the Bizkaia bluffs to the lighthouse. And if that wasn’t enough reason to take this hike, you will also discover a labyrinth of tunnels, an array of wildlife and a WWII-era cannon pointing towards the sea.
Castle Butron
Creation
The origins of the Butron Castle starts in the Middle Ages. In the 11th Century the Butron family built a medieval tower on the property of their old family home. This tower stood as a lonesome sentinel until turned into a fortress. Castle construction occurred in the 16th century.
Butron Castle was built in a Gothic style. A continuous power struggle raged among the nobility. Primarily contenders were the Gamboinos and the Oñacinos families. The Burtons were aligned with the Oñacinos and were active in some gruesome and bloody battles.
It wasn’t until spouses Fernando II of Aragon and Isabel I of Castile known as the Catholic Monarchs ascended the throne that the war ended.
Disrepair
After the wars ended, the castle was abandoned and left to erode and deteriorate for a couple of hundred years. Eventually, in the 19th century, someone took on the task of transforming the ruins into something new. This restoration drastically transformed the castle into its current form. Architect Francisco de Cubas was in charge of the project and designed it to the style at the time.
Only one of the outside pillars and the main floor remain of the original castle. Due to the centuries of neglect much of the original building was unsavable. You can tell the difference between the original parts and the restored parts by the different colour of stone. The restored section looks weathered as the restoration took place in the mid to late 1800’s.
Castle Butron Today
Butron is currently vacant and looking for new ownership. This means two things. Firstly, if you’re looking to buy your own castle here’s your chance! Secondly, this means that you are unable to go inside this fortress at the time being. Hopefully this will change in the near future.
The upside is that you can go to the castle and walk around the grounds, including the ecological reserve that surrounds. It is free of charge. This is absolutely worth doing. The sure grandeur of the castle in its setting is a site to behold. Castle Butron is gobsmacking. Simply put, it’s magical.
Standing in front of Castle Butron is a memory you will cherish for years to come. It’s a legit castle, like from a fantasy or movie. If you hate castles then this place isn’t for you. Otherwise, come check it out for yourself. You will not be disappointed.