Top 14 Castles around Garrigoles
Best castles around Garrigoles are found in the broader Empordà region, as Garrigoles itself is a tranquil village known for its rural allure and historical heritage. The village features cobbled streets and ancient stone houses, with the parish church of Sant Martí reflecting its past. While prominent, stand-alone castles are not within Garrigoles, the surrounding Baix Empordà and Alt Empordà comarcas offer significant historical fortifications. These sites provide insight into Catalonia's strategic history and are accessible for exploration.
Best castles…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
Montgrí Castle
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Cinc Claus Village and Castle
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Sant Morí Castle
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Bellcaire Castle
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Historic centre of Vilaür
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Tips from the Community
Small but beautiful municipality
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Beautiful castle in the middle of this little village. Surrounded by beautiful small streets and lots of characteristic houses.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oi0HgiBDuF0The imposing building that we can see today was built in the 15th century on the remains of a medieval castle documented since 1149 and that in the century XIII was owned by Bernat de Creixell. Historians do not agree on whether the monastery of Sant Miquel de Fluvià had the superior lordship. In any case, we know that the Creixells passed by marriage to the Vilaguts and from these to the Rocabertís, already in the 15th century. It was at that time when the first major transformation of the castle took place and when Queen Joana Enríquez, mother of Ferdinand the Catholic, settled there for a while. Since then it has been in the hands of the descendants of Pere de Rocabertí, the Cardona-Rocabertí and then the Sentmenat and the Moxó. Maria Mercè de Sentmenat i de Patiño received the title of Marchioness of Sant Mori in 1893. The castle is located in the middle of the town. It is configured as a large massive block, rectangular in plan, with a central courtyard. The main portal is dovetailed and on the facades there are several bigeminated crown windows, decorated with noble coats of arms, one of which shows the fleurs-de-lis of the Vilagut. Other windows are the result of modern restoration. swIf you want, you can rent it for rooms or weddings... https://www.airbnb.es/rooms/30806789?adults=1&children=0&enable_m3_private_room=true&infants=0&pets=0&check_in=2024-02-29&check_out=2024-03-05&source_impression_id=p3_1704139137_peqk24%2FuplIlvbBN&previous_page_section _name=1000&federated_search_id=8a9627cf-4904-4024- 9e09-702153ebb233
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This church, of medieval origin, is part of the most important architectural heritage of the old town of Sant Mori, along with the Sant Mori Castle and other historical buildings. The church is an outstanding testimony of the history and architecture of the area, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the town.
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https://www.itinari.com/es/location/castillo-sant-mori https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oi0HgiBduF0 It is an architectural jewel from the 15th century with Gothic-Renaissance influences. This castle-palace was significantly remodeled in the 16th century on the ruins of an earlier structure. Today, Sant Mori Castle is not only a testament to the region's rich historical past, but also offers a unique holiday experience, with its impressive architectural features such as a charming interior courtyard, three floors full of history, and a garden terrace with pool. In addition, its location allows easy access to cultural and natural attractions in the area, such as the Dalí House Museum and the beaches of the Costa Brava. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rocwax-EevA
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In 959 Count Gausfred recognized this place as one of the many properties that Riculf had. Cinco Claus Castle was built in the 14th century. In 1402, Sinch keys appeared, along with the Courts, as places incorporated into the Crown by King Martí l'Humà. Because of its proximity to Empúries, it suffered numerous military confrontations: the military contest between Count Hug V of Empúries and King Jaume I (1274-1275), pirate raids (1483), the attack of Castilian troops of Felipe IV in the War of Secession, when the Cinc Claus castle belonged to the head of the Catalan militia Josep de Margarit i de Biure (1640) and the Carline wars. The farmhouses of Cinco Claus were built by reusing materials from the remains of the old castle.
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Interesting place. Could also be an abandoned place in a western.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What castles can I visit near Garrigoles?
While Garrigoles itself is known for its rural charm and historical heritage rather than prominent castles, the surrounding Empordà region offers several significant fortifications. Notable examples include Montgrí Castle, Bellcaire Castle, and Sant Morí Castle. These sites provide a glimpse into Catalonia's strategic history.
Are there any castles directly within Garrigoles village?
Garrigoles is celebrated for its rural allure, cobbled streets, and ancient stone houses, with the parish church of Sant Martí reflecting its historical past. However, prominent, stand-alone castles are not among its direct attractions. The historical charm is more subtly woven into its general architecture.
What kind of historical fortifications can I expect to see in the Empordà region?
The Empordà region features a variety of historical fortifications. You can find military strongholds like Montgrí Castle, built by King Jaume II, and castles like Bellcaire Castle with its square plan and defensive towers. There are also rebuilt palaces such as Sant Morí Castle, which was transformed into a Gothic-Renaissance-style palace.
How far is Púbol Castle from Garrigoles, and what makes it unique?
Púbol Castle, also known as Gala Dalí Castle, is located in the nearby village of La Pera. It's a medieval fortification that became the residence of Salvador Dalí's wife, Gala. Dalí himself decorated its interior with unique antiques and symbolic elements, making it a fascinating part of the 'Dalinian Triangle' and offering insight into the surrealist artist's world.
Are there family-friendly castles or activities near Garrigoles?
Yes, several castles in the area are considered family-friendly. For example, Sant Morí Castle is listed as family-friendly. Additionally, exploring medieval villages like Verges — Medieval Village, with its preserved walls and castle parts, can be an engaging activity for families.
Can I visit these castles with my dog?
While specific dog policies vary by castle, many outdoor areas and trails around the castles in the Empordà region are dog-friendly. It's advisable to check individual castle websites or local regulations for specific rules regarding pets inside the castle structures or grounds.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The region around Garrigoles and its castles is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find various routes for mountain biking, running, and gravel biking. For instance, there are MTB trails like the 'Puig Segalar and Baix Empordà Villages Loop' and running trails such as the 'Castell d'Albons loop'. You can explore more options on the MTB Trails around Garrigoles, Running Trails around Garrigoles, and Gravel biking around Garrigoles guide pages.
Do any castles offer good viewpoints or natural features?
Absolutely. Montgrí Castle, situated atop the 301 m high Montgrí massif, offers spectacular panoramic views over the Alt- and Baix Empordà, the Ter lowlands, and the Mediterranean Sea with the Bay of Roses. The surrounding area is characterized by green fields and gentle hills, perfect for nature lovers.
When is the best time to visit the castles near Garrigoles?
The Empordà region generally enjoys pleasant weather for visiting castles. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures ideal for exploring both the historical sites and the surrounding natural landscapes. Summer can be warm, but coastal breezes provide relief. Winter is typically mild, though some attractions might have reduced opening hours.
Is parking available at the castles?
Parking availability varies by castle. For castles located within villages, such as Bellcaire Castle or Sant Morí Castle, you can often find public parking nearby in the town. For more remote sites like Montgrí Castle, which requires a hike to reach, parking would be at the base of the massif or in the nearest town.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Garrigoles?
Visitors appreciate the diverse architectural styles and historical periods represented by the castles, from military fortifications to rebuilt palaces. The komoot community has shared over 450 photos and more than 430 upvotes, highlighting the scenic beauty and historical significance of these sites, especially the wide views from places like Montgrí Castle.
Are there places to eat or drink near the castles?
Yes, many of the castles are located in or near charming villages that offer cafes and restaurants. For example, Sant Morí Castle itself can be rented as a hotel and restaurant. Exploring the towns surrounding the castles will often reveal local eateries where you can enjoy traditional Catalan cuisine.
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