Castell de Savassona

Castell de Savassona is a medieval castle overlooking the municipality of Tavèrnoles, in the heart of Catalonia's Osona region. Perched at roughly 611 meters above sea level, it rises above the rolling terrain of the Espai Natural de les Guilleries-Savassona, one of the most scenic protected natural areas in this part of Catalonia. Although the castle remains privately owned and still serves as a residence, its silhouette and long history make it one of the most notable landmarks along the hiking routes around Tavèrnoles.

What is the history behind the castle?

Records of Castell de Savassona date back to around the year 890, when the area fell under the authority of the viscounts of Osona. The castle was administered by the Savassona family of knights, who eventually rose to become barons of the same name, turning the site into a local center of feudal power. Over the centuries the building underwent several transformations, with the most significant renovation work carried out in the 17th and 19th centuries, giving the castle its current mixed architectural character that blends defensive elements with later residential additions. In 1949, Castell de Savassona was declared an Asset of National Interest, formally recognizing its historical value within Catalonia's cultural heritage.

What can you see there?

From the outside, the castle displays the layout typical of Catalan strongholds: thick defensive walls and a distinctive triangular tower set within the complex, one of the oldest surviving elements of the structure. This tower, together with sections of the original walls, best illustrates the building's defensive purpose from over a thousand years ago. Because the castle is inhabited and privately owned, visiting the interior requires prior permission from the owners — most visitors experience the building from the outside, while walking the trails that surround it.

How do you get there?

The most popular way to reach the castle is via the hiking trail "Castell de Savassona – Tavèrnoles," which runs through the protected Guilleries-Savassona natural area. The route covers roughly 14 kilometers with a moderate difficulty rating and a total elevation gain of nearly 320 meters. It suits hikers with an average fitness level and offers views over the hills of Osona and the region's characteristic dense woodlands along the way. The village of Tavèrnoles itself is the usual starting point, from which the round trip can be planned on foot or by bike.

When is the best time to visit?

Because a good part of the route runs through open terrain with limited tree cover, spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit, offering milder temperatures and the most vivid colors across the Guilleries-Savassona landscape. In summer, it's worth setting out early in the morning to avoid the midday heat. Winter can make the trail more demanding due to moisture and mud after rainfall, but the sight of the castle wrapped in morning mist is among the most photogenic moments the region has to offer.

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit the inside of the castle? Not freely — Castell de Savassona is privately owned and still functions as a residence, so entering the grounds requires prior permission from the owners.

How long does the walk to the castle take? The round-trip hike from Tavèrnoles covers about 14 km and typically takes between 4 and 5 hours at a moderate pace, depending on fitness level and the number of stops.

Is the castle lit up or open in the evening? No — as a private property, it isn't specially illuminated or opened after dark; the best views are during daylight hours, especially around sunrise.

Are there other attractions nearby worth combining with the visit? Yes, the Guilleries-Savassona region is rich in other viewpoints and trails, and the area around Tavèrnoles is known for its picturesque stone rural buildings, which pair well with a visit to the castle.