Top 8 Castles around Maresme
Best castles around Maresme offer a glimpse into the region's rich historical heritage. The Maresme region, situated along the coast, features a diverse landscape with hills and plains. Its strategic location has led to the development of numerous fortifications over centuries. These sites provide historical context and often panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Best castles around Maresme
- The most popular castles is Burriac Castle, a castle that offers panoramic views from its 400-meter-high hill. Its origins date back over a thousand years, with remains including the circular base of its homage tower.
- Another must-see spot is Palafolls Castle, a medieval military building. Visitors can explore its ruins, including an intact chapel and remnants of walls, while enjoying views of the Tordera river and coastline.
- Visitors also love Montpalau Castle, a castle with ancient Iberian and Roman origins. Fragments of walls, a rounded window, and remnants of a cylindrical tower are still visible, offering historical depth and scenic views.
- Maresme is known for its diverse castle types, ranging from well-preserved medieval fortifications to extensive ruins. The region features a variety of castles, including those with modernist transformations and those offering strategic viewpoints.
- The castles around Maresme are appreciated by the komoot community, with 182 upvotes and 216 photos shared across 7 highlights.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
Burriac Castle
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Palafolls Castle
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The fortress sits on the crest of a low elevation, elongated mountain that runs from northwest to southeast and almost parallel to the Tordera River. Very in ruins, it was built dominating the panoramic view of the lower course and the fertile plain of the Tordera river, in a strategic place to control the royal road from Gerona to Barcelona along the coast. It became the center of the important barony of Palafolls in the county of Gerona, a jurisdiction that extended through the current terms of Malgrat de Mar, Palafolls, Santa Susana and part of Blanes.
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Montpalau Castle
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At its top you can see the remains of the old castle of Montpalau. Many centuries before the construction of the castle, the site had been occupied by an Iberian settlement that has left numerous vestiges, dating from the fourth century BC. and of population that had continuity in Roman time. Most of the stone from this ancient settlement must have been used to build the medieval castle
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Jalpí Castle
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The old manor house became a Castle in 1895, when it became the habitual residence of the newlyweds Mr. August Borràs i Jalpí and Mrs. Sofía de Algorta y Albaroa.
Mr. August, single of marriageable age, from Sant Celoni, was the gentleman, heir to a landowning family, whose properties spread around many municipalities in the Maresme and La Selva regions.
Señora Sofía, a maid from the town of Lekeitio, came from a finished family that was granted an exceptional dowry by marriage.
Their peculiar social situation allowed them to make the most extravagant dreams come true. This is how the castle, the lake, the lighthouse, the possession of the best carriages and the best cars of the time were born.
The new marriage soon had offspring. The new heir, Mr. Miquel, educated with all possible indulgence during childhood, fell in love with a young woman, who due to social rank, the family could never accept.
This was the beginning of the family's social and economic decline. The struggle between mother and son to manage the fortune, and for the acceptance of his beloved was so deep that it caused the loss of the entire family fortune.
It was from the year 2004 when the Grup SERHS returned the splendor to the castle. The interiors and exteriors that were in a deplorable state were restored. The new management turned Castell Jalpí into the unique and singular space that it is today, and which allows one to experience first-hand the reality that the Jalpí family experienced almost 130 years ago.
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Trail with views of Burriac Castle
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Vilassar Castle
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The building acquired its current form in the 14th and 15th centuries and began to decline from the 16th century, although an important reform was carried out in the 18th century. In 1931 it was declared a historical-artistic monument and restored in 1950. In 1956, the reform and restoration work carried out by the owners was completed.
It currently houses the historical archive of the Marquis of Barberà, with more than 8,000 scrolls, hundreds of paper bindings, 300 books and 70 manuscripts, and is one of the most important private medieval archives in our country.
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Can Garí
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More than a house, it is a mansion that includes other buildings such as the different walls that surround the property, a water tower, the house of the masovers or guardians, a chapel, etc. In fact, in a guide to Barcelona and its surroundings, published in 1909, it is cited and described as the "Palace of Don José Garí." It stands out for having been completed in just 9 months, proof of the strength of the different Catalan industries, as well as the luxury of its decoration and the works of art that are kept there. Of the parts that make up the palace, the large lake in which the façade is reflected, decorated with elements that seem to cover it with a layer of lace, the entrance gallery and the grandeur of the dining room stand out.
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View of Castell de Burriac and the coast
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It houses over 8,000 medieval parchments, a veritable documentary treasure hidden within centuries-old walls. But it wasn't all glory: in its day, there were revolts because the lords of the castle forced the locals to work for free on construction projects, without bread or gratitude. Its structure is as legendary as its history, with a cylindrical tower that has stood since the 10th century and another square one added in the 13th. Today, it can only be visited on very specific dates, making it an almost secret place. Declared a historical monument in 1931, it remains a symbol of the town and, in recent years, also a curious setting where history and drinks intertwine seamlessly.
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Built in the 10th century to deter pirates, Vilassar Castle evolved from a defensive tower into a Gothic palace. It features a chapel, a hall of mirrors, a garden, and sea views. Although privately owned, it is open to the public a few days a year and, since 2017, has been available for rent for weddings and events.
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Amidst ruins and wind, this castle holds a little-known curiosity: on one of its walls, stonemasons' marks in the shape of a cross were found. According to some historians, these are not religious symbols but rather the "signatures" of the workers who were paid per stone laid. They say each mark represented a payment. From the summit, the sea and Montseny seem closer, as if the castle still serves as a lookout, this time not for armies, but for horizons.
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beautiful ruin with a breathtaking view
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Medieval Military Building. Of the centuries... XI. to. S - XV, Currently in ruins , and It was the former center of the barony of Palafolls.
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To get to Burriac Castle, you have to go through a typically Mediterranean forest made up of pines, oaks and bushes. Follow the trail signs and in no time you will see the castle rising above the hill.
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The remains of Burriac Castle are almost a thousand years old. They are located at the top of Burriac Hill. One of the best ways to get to the castle is by following the local trail SL-C 115 from Cabrera de Mar.
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If you leave the Pista and continue along the Gratós trail, you will have the option of going to Turó Cirerà. The views are great from both points.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which castles in Maresme offer the most impressive panoramic views?
For breathtaking vistas, consider visiting Burriac Castle, perched atop a 400-meter-high hill, offering 360-degree views of the Maresme coast. Palafolls Castle also provides magnificent views of the coastal area from Blanes to Malgrat de Mar and the Tordera river valley. From Montpalau Castle, you can enjoy an unbeatable panoramic view of the Alt Maresme.
Are there hiking trails that lead to or connect the castles in Maresme?
Yes, many castles in Maresme are popular hiking destinations. The path to Burriac Castle, particularly from Cabrera de Mar, is a popular excursion. You can follow the local trail SL-C 115 from Cabrera de Mar to reach it. The area around Montpalau Castle also offers good hiking opportunities. For more detailed routes, explore the easy hikes around Maresme or waterfall hikes around Maresme guides.
Which castles in Maresme are suitable for families with children?
Jalpí Castle is noted as family-friendly, featuring a lake and historical grounds that can be explored. The hike to Burriac Castle is also a popular excursion for both adults and children, offering an engaging outdoor activity before reaching the ruins.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles in Maresme?
The Maresme region generally enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate. Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) are ideal for visiting, offering pleasant temperatures for exploring the outdoor ruins and hiking trails without the intense heat of summer. Winter visits are also possible, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
Do I need tickets or reservations to visit the castles in Maresme?
For castles like Castell de Santa Florentina, guided and audio-guided tours are available, and it's advisable to check their official website for ticket prices and booking information. Many other castles, such as Burriac Castle, Palafolls Castle, and Montpalau Castle, are largely ruins and can often be explored freely without tickets, though access times may vary.
What historical periods do the castles in Maresme represent?
The castles in Maresme span a wide range of historical periods. Many, like Burriac Castle and Palafolls Castle, have medieval origins dating back to the 10th-11th centuries. Montpalau Castle even sits on the remains of an Iberian settlement from the 4th century BC and continued Roman occupation. Castell de Santa Florentina showcases a unique blend of medieval and modernist architecture due to a significant transformation in the early 20th century.
Are there any castles in Maresme that have been used as filming locations?
Yes, Castell de Santa Florentina gained international recognition for being a filming location for the sixth season of the popular series *Game of Thrones*, where it depicted Horn Hill, the seat of House Tarly.
What kind of architectural styles can I expect to see among the Maresme castles?
The castles in Maresme offer a diverse range of architectural styles. You'll find classic medieval fortifications and ruins, such as Burriac Castle and Palafolls Castle, showcasing their strategic defensive designs. Castell de Santa Florentina is particularly unique, blending its original 11th-century structure with a stunning modernist transformation from the early 20th century, featuring intricate details like stained glass and carved wood.
Can I find amenities like cafes or restaurants near the castles?
While many castles, especially those in ruins like Burriac or Montpalau, are located in more natural, elevated settings, the towns and villages at their base often offer cafes and restaurants. For example, Cabrera de Mar is near Burriac Castle, and Pineda de Mar is close to Montpalau Castle. It's recommended to check local listings for specific options in these areas.
Are there any castles in Maresme that are particularly well-preserved or restored?
Castell de Santa Florentina stands out as a well-preserved and extensively restored castle, particularly due to its modernist transformation. It offers furnished chambers and is used as an events venue. While others like Burriac Castle and Palafolls Castle are largely ruins, their structures have been consolidated to allow visitors to explore their historical remains.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles in Maresme?
Beyond exploring the castles themselves, the Maresme region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including those leading to the castles. The area also has running trails and opportunities for nature walks, especially around the Montnegre massif where Montpalau Castle is located.
Are any of the castles in Maresme wheelchair accessible?
Due to their historical nature and often elevated, rugged locations, most of the medieval castle ruins in Maresme, such as Burriac, Palafolls, and Montpalau, are not fully wheelchair accessible. For Castell de Santa Florentina, it is best to contact them directly for specific accessibility information regarding their guided tours and facilities.
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