Can Ribas

Can Ribas is a former estate in Montgat, a small coastal town in the Maresme region right on Barcelona's northern edge. Its original neo-Arabic style mansion no longer stands, but the hilltop portion of the grounds survives today as one of the town's favourite green spaces — the Parc del Turonet, also known locally as the Bosquet de Can Ribas.

What is this place?

Can Ribas was once a substantial estate centred on a mansion built in neo-Arabic style, identifiable in old records by its distinctive portal. The property is listed in Catalonia's cultural heritage register as an Asset of Local Interest (Bé Cultural d'Interès Local, reference IPA-8748). During the 1960s, as urban development spread through the area, the mansion itself was torn down. Only the hillside section of the original estate escaped demolition, together with a small temple-shaped lookout structure that had stood at its summit.

A curious side note to the estate's history involves the chapel of Sant Martí de Montgat, a Romanesque building that was eventually absorbed into the neighbouring Can Galceranet estate, which later passed into the hands of the Ribas family. The chapel served the Calonge Ribas family for private family celebrations.

How do you get there?

Montgat sits directly on the Barcelona–Maresme railway line, so the easiest way in is by Rodalies commuter train (R1 line) — the ride from central Barcelona takes only about fifteen minutes. Parc del Turonet itself occupies the Turó del Mar neighbourhood, on a hill overlooking the surroundings, a short walk from both the train station and the beach. The park covers roughly 1.1 hectares and is open daily from 7 am to 11 pm, with free admission.

What will you see?

The park keeps a typically Mediterranean character: Aleppo pine, holm oak, olive, carob, eucalyptus, Spanish broom and prickly pear cactus all grow across the hillside. The old temple-lookout, the one surviving structure from the original estate, still stands at the top and offers panoramic views over the town and coastline. Beyond that, visitors find concrete ramps and staircases climbing the slope, a sports circuit, and a platform occasionally used for outdoor events. The park belongs to Montgat's town council and is kept in good condition, though the site itself carries no formal nature-protection designation — it functions primarily as a municipal recreational park with a genuinely historic pedigree.

When should you visit?

Spring and autumn bring the mildest temperatures and show the Mediterranean vegetation at its best. In summer, early morning or evening visits are more comfortable, avoiding the midday heat — and sunset over the sea from the lookout is particularly rewarding. Given its modest size and local character, Can Ribas and its park make for a short, relaxed stop rather than a full day out, pairing naturally with a visit to Montgat's beach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there anything left of the original Can Ribas to visit? The mansion itself was demolished in the 1960s. The hilltop portion of the estate survives as Parc del Turonet, including the historic temple-lookout structure.

How much does it cost to enter the park? Nothing — the park is free and open to the public daily from 7 am to 11 pm.

What's the quickest way to reach Montgat from Barcelona? Take the R1 Rodalies commuter train; the journey takes about fifteen minutes, and the station is close to both the park and the beach.

Is the park suitable for families with children? Yes — its small size, gentle paths and proximity to the beach make it a good spot for a short, easy walk with kids.