Castell de Montgrí
A 13th-century hilltop fortress offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Empordà region, accessible via scenic hiking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Castell de Montgrí
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 13th-century hilltop fortress offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Empordà region, accessible via scenic hiking trails.
"Totally worth the hot trek for the fantastic views from the top!"
👟 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Rocky paths demand good trainers or hiking boots. Avoid sandals or flip-flops to prevent slips and injuries.
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry ample water, especially during warmer months. The climb can be strenuous and there are no facilities on the trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic 360° Views
Top of the castle towers
Ascend the spiral staircase for breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Empordà region and the Mediterranean Sea.
The Imposing Castle Structure
Castle grounds
Explore the impressive 13th-century fortress with its four defense towers, a testament to medieval architecture.
Scenic Hiking Trails
Surrounding hills
Embark on signposted routes offering a moderate challenge and beautiful natural landscapes on your way up.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trek Smart: Footwear & Hydration
Timing is Everything for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Rocky paths demand good trainers or hiking boots. Avoid sandals or flip-flops to prevent slips and injuries.
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry ample water, especially during warmer months. The climb can be strenuous and there are no facilities on the trail.
🚶♀️ Follow Trail Markers
Look for red and white paint marks on rocks to guide you along the well-defined hiking routes.
🚗 Free Parking Available
The visitor welcome area offers a large, free car park with direct access to the main trail.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Rocky paths demand good trainers or hiking boots. Avoid sandals or flip-flops to prevent slips and injuries.
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry ample water, especially during warmer months. The climb can be strenuous and there are no facilities on the trail.
🚶♀️ Follow Trail Markers
Look for red and white paint marks on rocks to guide you along the well-defined hiking routes.
🚗 Free Parking Available
The visitor welcome area offers a large, free car park with direct access to the main trail.
🏰 Free Castle Entry
The castle ruins are free to explore, but climbing the towers may have specific access points.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Castell de Montgrí for its breathtaking panoramic views and the rewarding hike to reach it. The historical significance of the castle and its free entry are also major draws. However, the climb can be challenging, especially in summer heat, and proper footwear is essential.
"The walk is quite challenging in summer, I wouldn't recommend unless you are confident in your fitness. I struggled a bit but it wasn't too bad with some water but I'm not too fit myself, maybe above average and younger. I didn't wear proper shoes but would recommend a good pair of trainers, definitely do not use flip flops as the path can get rocky. Castle itself is great, awesome views and worth it in my opinion, feeling the breeze after sweating a lot. The hike took about an hour as the sign at the start says, could probably do it faster outside of summer but the path can get a bit dangerous at times so wouldn't recommend speeding through it anyway."
Haris Iosifidis
"Nice climb to the top. Approximatly 35/40min to get up. Slippery rocks, so a good pair of shoe with."
Stefan De Mooy
"The imposing Castel Montgri is omnipresent when staying in the area. Me and my two boys (13 and 11) parked in the Zona de benvinguda de visitants del Montgrí. It’s a large, free car park with direct access to the trail that heads up to the castle. Follow the red and white paint marks on rocks and the trail will take you to the Castel. It took us about 45 minutes to get to the castle. The trail is rocky so wear trainers or walking boots (my 13 year old did it in sliders 🙈). Take water with you if it’s hot. The Castle is free to enter (it’s a ruin) but has a spiral staircase in one of the turrets that takes you to the top of the castle - and you can walk the whole way round. Fantastic views from the top. Well worth the hot trek."
Stuart Baker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary access is via hiking routes from the parking area at the Zona de benvinguda de visitants del Montgrí. The trail is marked with red and white paint. Some Instagram reels showcase circular routes starting from Torroella de Montgrí.
Yes, there is a large, free car park at the visitor welcome area (Zona de benvinguda de visitants del Montgrí) which provides direct access to the hiking trail.
No, the castle is located on a hilltop and is only accessible by foot via hiking trails. Cars must be left at the designated parking area.
Most visitors drive to the free parking lot. Public transport options to the base of the mountain are limited, so driving is generally recommended.
While not directly at the castle, some local tour operators in the Empordà region offer guided hikes that include Castell de Montgrí.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the castle itself is a ruin and entry to explore the grounds and lower levels is free.
The main parking area at the visitor welcome area is free of charge.
As an open-air ruin, the castle is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no official opening or closing times posted.
No, the hiking trails leading to Castell de Montgrí are public and free to use.
While technically possible, it is not recommended due to safety concerns on the rocky trails and lack of lighting. Stick to daylight hours.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The hike typically takes between 35 to 45 minutes from the parking lot, depending on your fitness level and pace. Some sources mention around 1.5 hours for a more relaxed tour with older individuals.
The hike is considered moderate, with rocky terrain and some elevation gain. It can be challenging in hot weather.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes or trainers with good grip. Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and potentially warm weather is recommended.
Castell de Montgrí is a ruin, so there are no facilities like restrooms or shops on-site. Ensure you have everything you need before you start the hike.
The views are spectacular, offering 360-degree panoramas of the Empordà region, the Mediterranean Sea, and the surrounding landscape.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the castle towers offer incredible panoramic shots. The winding trails leading up also provide scenic photo opportunities with the castle in the background.
Absolutely! The elevated position provides stunning landscape photography opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset. 
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, while early morning can provide a less crowded experience with soft light.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in this area to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details in the landscape or distant coastlines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities at the castle. The free parking and free entry to the castle make it a budget-friendly family activity.
🚶♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts & Hikers
Consider extending your hike by exploring some of the circular routes mentioned in social media posts for a more comprehensive experience. Experienced hikers might find the ascent straightforward, but the real prize is the panoramic view from the castle's ramparts.
Remember to check weather conditions and go prepared with adequate water and sun protection. 📸 Photographers & View Seekers
+1 The best light for capturing these vistas is often during the golden hours of late afternoon or early morning, though the midday sun can also provide dramatic contrasts. The castle itself, with its medieval architecture, provides a compelling foreground element for your shots. Ascending to the top of the towers is a must for capturing the most expansive panoramas.
Whether you're using a smartphone or a professional camera, the views from Castell de Montgrí are sure to impress. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to the Summit
+1It's crucial to be prepared for the elements, especially during warmer months. Staying hydrated is paramount, so carrying plenty of water is a common piece of advice from visitors.
For those with mobility concerns or who prefer a more leisurely pace, the hike can still be manageable, though perhaps with more frequent breaks. Some reviews suggest that walking sticks can be helpful for stability on the rocky sections, particularly for older visitors.
and a chance to 'experience nature in its fullness.' Exploring the Medieval Fortress
This imposing hilltop fortress features four distinct defense towers and offers a glimpse into medieval military architecture. While it is a ruin, its structure remains remarkably intact, allowing visitors to explore its ramparts and imagine its past. The castle is free to enter, making it an accessible historical site for everyone. A highlight for many visitors is the opportunity to climb the spiral staircase within one of the turrets. This ascent leads to the very top of the castle, providing unparalleled 360-degree views of the surrounding Empordà region, the Mediterranean coastline, and the picturesque towns below.
Instagram reels often capture the grandeur of the castle, showcasing its silhouette against the sky and its strategic position overlooking the landscape.
+1 The castle is not just a historical site but also an icon of the territory, deeply connected to the identity of the Empordà region. Exploring its walls offers a tangible connection to the past, set against a backdrop of breathtaking natural scenery. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit