Can Borrell

Can Borrell is a modernist masia (traditional Catalan country estate) located in Castellar del Vallès, in the Vallès Occidental region of Barcelona province.

What kind of building is this?

Can Borrell began as a rural Catalan farmhouse and was later turned into a representative modernist residence, a common transformation for country estates in the early 20th century, when wealthy landowners commissioned notable architects to rebuild their properties. Today the building operates as a hotel and events venue while retaining its historic character.

What is the history behind the building?

The farmhouse's origins go back to the 16th and 17th centuries, when it functioned as a typical rural masia. The turning point came in 1912, when Enric Oliver Turull commissioned architect Juli Batllevell Arús to carry out a thorough renovation, giving the building the form of a torre-xalet — a tower-villa style characteristic of Catalan Modernisme. Because of its architectural value, Can Borrell holds protected status as a building of special cultural interest.

How large is the estate, and what does it include?

The overall estate covers 158 hectares, of which 148 hectares are forested land. The main modernist building measures 633 square metres, with an additional building exceeding 500 square metres standing nearby. The grounds also include a laborers' house, a warehouse, a swimming pool, a private chapel, two garages, a laundry room, stables and a henhouse — features typical of a large Catalan rural estate.

Where exactly is Can Borrell located?

The property sits along the road leading to Sant Llorenç Savall, at kilometre 9.2, at the foot of the Sant Llorenç de Munt i l'Obac Natural Park. The surroundings offer mountain views and proximity to a natural landscape, while still being within reasonably easy reach of Barcelona.

How is the building used today?

Can Borrell now operates as an accommodation and events venue, hosting weddings and celebrations for anywhere between 20 and 250 guests, in outdoor or indoor settings. Guest rooms range from doubles to family rooms and suites. Facilities available to guests include a terrace with mountain views and a barbecue area, a garden with a covered lounge space, and a swimming pool.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Can Borrell? It is a modernist masia in Castellar del Vallès, renovated in 1912, now operating as a hotel and events venue.

Who designed the building's renovation? The 1912 renovation was designed by architect Juli Batllevell Arús, commissioned by Enric Oliver Turull.

Is Can Borrell a protected heritage building? Yes, it holds protected status as a building of special architectural and cultural interest.

How big is the whole estate? The estate spans 158 hectares, of which 148 hectares are forested, and the main building covers 633 square metres.