If you’re spending your holidays on the Costa Brava and feel like a different kind of outing, with a cultural touch and stunning views, don’t miss this destination: Hostalric Castle. Strategically located between Girona and Barcelona, this monumental site is one of the best-kept secrets in the inland Selva region. History, scenery, trails and legends come together in a visit that fascinates both young and old.
A fortress with centuries of history
Hostalric Castle is an impressive military fortress built on the site of a former medieval castle. Its location is no coincidence: perched atop a volcanic outcrop, it commands the natural pass between the north and south of Catalonia. For centuries, this site played a key role in defending the territory, especially during the War of Spanish Succession and the Peninsular War.
What we can visit today is largely an 18th-century military engineering work, designed according to the defensive principles of the time: star-shaped walls, bastions, underground tunnels, powder magazines and panoramic views that transport you to another era.
Visits and activities for everyone
The castle is open to the public and can be visited independently or with a guide. It also offers theatrical tours, escape rooms and children’s activities that make the experience far more than just a history lesson.
In addition to the castle, Hostalric retains a medieval wall and an urban centre declared a Cultural Asset of National Interest, with corners well worth exploring at your leisure: towers, gateways, cobbled streets and a wide range of local products and crafts.
Why include Hostalric Castle in your route?
- Because it’s a historic, well-preserved and very photogenic site.
- Because it offers activities for all ages.
- Because it’s close to the Costa Brava and the Maresme.
- Because it’s a great alternative for cloudy days or breaks from the beach.
- Because it combines culture, nature and great cuisine.
Enjoy a GHT experience beyond the sea
At GHT Hotels, we help you plan a complete holiday, with options for every taste: relaxation, sport, nature, culture… all from a privileged location. If you’re staying at one of our hotels on the Costa Brava or in the Maresme, don’t hesitate to check out our suggestions for getaways, routes and local activities.
