Castell de Sant Joan

Castell de Sant Joan crowns the hill above Blanes, marking a lookout site that guarded this stretch of the Costa Brava long before the current structure was built. The earliest written record of a fortification here dates to 1001, though the headland had already served as a watch point since Iberian times. The castle took its present shape under the Viscounts of Cabrera, who held the area from the early 12th century — back then the stronghold was known as the castle of Forcadell. The building seen today was ordered in the mid-13th century by Grau de Cabrera, raised over the remains of an earlier fortification.

How do you get to the castle?

Castell de Sant Joan sits on a hill directly above Blanes' old town, so no car is strictly needed. A signposted footpath climbs from the seafront promenade and takes roughly 20 to 30 minutes depending on pace — the ascent is steep, so comfortable shoes and water are worth bringing, especially in summer. Drivers or taxis can also reach a point closer to the summit, leaving only a short walk to the walls; parking near the top is limited.

What will you see there?

The surviving defensive wall forms a rectangular enclosure measuring roughly 23 by 34 metres, and its most recognisable feature is a cylindrical tower standing close to 15 metres tall. The castle originally functioned as a coastal watch post: its walls were used to scan the Mediterranean for Barbary corsairs and pirates, and a further watchtower was added in the 16th century specifically for that purpose. The fortress also formed part of the so-called Tordera line, a chain of castles that relayed light signals as far as Barcelona, making it one link in a wider coastal defence network. The platform beside the tower offers one of the best views over Blanes, its bay, and the Costa Brava coastline — the main reason the site draws walkers and photographers today.

When is the best time to visit?

Early morning or late afternoon are the most rewarding times to climb up, avoiding the midday sun and catching extra colour over the bay at sunset. Spring and autumn make the steep approach considerably more comfortable than the height of summer. It is worth checking local opening hours before setting out, since access to parts of the site can be restricted at certain times.

A brief history

After centuries of military use, the castle gradually fell into disrepair. In the 16th century, the Marquis Francesc de Montcada authorised the Capuchin friars settled in Blanes to take wood and stone from the fortification for their own building work, which accelerated the decay of the walls. It was not until 1956 that the Patronat de Reconstrucció del Castell de Sant Joan was established, and its restoration efforts saved what remained of the fortress, opening it to visitors in the form seen today.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee for the castle? The grounds and ruins are freely accessible to walkers; any charges would apply only to organised events held on site, so it is worth confirming locally before visiting.

How long does a visit take? The climb itself takes 20 to 30 minutes, and exploring the ruins and enjoying the view usually adds another half hour, so allow about an hour in total.

Is the route suitable for children? The path is steep and partly rocky, so children should be accompanied by an adult, and pushchairs are not practical on this route.

What else is worth seeing nearby? The castle's slopes look directly down onto Blanes' old town and harbour, making it a natural starting or finishing point for a walk through the historic centre.