Castle of Burriac

Castle of Burriac is a medieval fortress perched above the town of Cabrera de Mar, in the Maresme region, less than 30 km from Barcelona. It sits on a hilltop over 400 metres high, offering one of the best panoramic views over the entire Maresme coastline and the Corredor mountain range.

How do you get there?

A hiking trail starting from the centre of Cabrera de Mar leads up to the castle; the climb usually takes 45–60 minutes depending on fitness and pace. The route forms part of the Corredor-Montnegre mountain trail network, well signposted and popular with local walkers and mountain bikers alike. There's no direct road access up to the ruins — the nearest parking is at the trailhead in the lower part of town. Bring water and sturdy footwear, since the terrain is rocky and steep in places.

What will you see there?

Although weathered by time, the ruins still let you trace the layout of the old stronghold: the remains of a cylindrical tower, sections of the defensive walls, and a chapel that outlasted every other part of the complex. The first written record of the site dates from 1017, but the hilltop had already served a watch function in Roman times, when an earlier tower kept guard over the Via Augusta, the main road linking Spain with the rest of Europe. Until the 13th century the castle was known as Castell de Sant Vicenç, after the family that originally held it. The building reached its peak in the 12th and 13th centuries under the Viscounts of Cabrera, one of the most powerful noble houses in medieval Catalonia. During that period the complex included living quarters for the garrison and nobility, curtain walls, and the chapel mentioned above.

The castle gradually lost its strategic relevance and was finally abandoned in the 18th century, though the chapel kept serving the local population for some time after the rest of the site fell into ruin. Today the grounds belong to the Cabrera de Mar town council and are open to everyone — entry is free, with no gates or on-site staff.

When should you visit?

Spring (March–May) and early autumn (September–October) are the best windows, with mild temperatures for the climb and the clearest visibility from the viewpoint. Summer heat on the rocky, largely shadeless trail can be tough, so an early morning start is worth planning. In winter the ground can get muddy after rain, but the hike remains doable year-round.

Why is it worth the visit?

Burriac brings together Roman-era history, medieval defensive architecture, and one of the finest viewpoints in the whole Maresme region. It suits travellers who enjoy pairing a moderately demanding walk with tangible, layered history — without the crowds that come with Catalonia's better-known castles.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entry fee for the castle grounds? No, the site is open to the public and free to visit year-round, with no set opening hours.

How long does it take to reach the top? The hike from the trailhead in Cabrera de Mar usually takes 45–60 minutes, depending on fitness level.

Can you drive closer to the ruins? No — the final stretch must be done on foot. Parking is available at the trailhead in the lower part of town.

What survives from the original structure? Sections of the defensive walls, the remains of a cylindrical tower, and the chapel — the longest-used part of the whole complex.