Castell de Beuda

Castell de Beuda stands watch over the village of Beuda in the Garrotxa region of Girona province, Catalonia. Locals also call it Castellot de les Bruixes, the Witches' Castle, a nickname that hints at the mood of the place: a lone tower on a rocky outcrop, wrapped in silence and looking out over rolling hills.

Where does the castle come from?

The earliest record dates back to 1002, when Pope Sylvester II confirmed the possessions of the church of Girona and listed among them a site named "castrum Bobeta". That single line ties Beuda to one of the oldest documented defensive sites in the region.

The round tower that still dominates the ruins was most likely raised in the early 11th century, making it one of the oldest surviving structures of its kind in all of Garrotxa. The stone hall attached to it came later, rebuilt in the 13th century.

The castle's story is tangled up with local nobility. Ermessenda, lady of Beuda and Montagut, married Udalard Bernat, the first count of Besalú, joining under one family the fiefs of Castelló de Bas, Beuda, Montagut and the surrounding lands. In 1119 she passed the castle to her grandson Udalard II, viscount of Besalú, who died a few years later. In 1281 the heiress Sibil·la de Palau sold the fortress to King Peter the Great, who in turn granted it to Ponç Hug IV of Empúries as a reward for service during the French invasion. Ownership later moved to the House of Bas and then to the Queixàs family.

By the 15th century the old stronghold had been abandoned — a new castle was built closer to the village, next to the church. That's why today's Castellot stands in ruins, while its successor, Castell Nou de Beuda, survives in far better condition, though it remains private property and closed to visitors.

How do you get there?

The castle sits on a hilltop 561 metres above sea level, north of Beuda's centre. By car, you can reach a parking area near the ca n'Oliveres farmhouse; from there, a steep but clearly marked trail leads to the top. The ruin stays in view for most of the climb, so getting lost isn't really a concern — but sturdy shoes and a bit of stamina help.

What will you see there?

Sections of the defensive walls still stand, along with a cistern and the striking round tower, the oldest part of the whole complex. From the top, the view stretches across the valley and the folded landscape of Garrotxa — the kind of spot where it's worth sitting down for a minute and just taking it in.

One thing worth knowing: the name "Castell de Beuda" can be confusing, since the same municipality holds another building, Castell Nou del Pla, east of the village centre on flatter ground. It's an entirely separate site and shouldn't be mixed up with the Castellot.

When should you visit?

With no shelter at the top and a steep approach, spring or autumn are the best bets, when temperatures are mild and visibility is at its best. Summer heat can make the exposed summit uncomfortable, while winter rain can leave the trail slippery.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee? No, the site is open to the public and free to visit.

How long does the hike to the top take? From the ca n'Oliveres parking area, the climb usually takes 20 to 30 minutes, depending on pace and fitness.

Is it suitable for children? The steep, rocky path can be demanding for younger kids — comfortable shoes and a relaxed pace are recommended.

What's the difference between Castellot de Beuda and Castell Nou de Beuda? The Castellot is the older stronghold on the hilltop, abandoned in the 15th century. Castell Nou was built later, closer to the village, and remains private property that's not open for visits.