Montgrí Castle: visit it from l’Estartit

Montgrí Castle is located at the top of the Montgrí Massif, near the town of Torroella de Montgrí, in the province of Girona. It stands about 315 meters above sea level, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Empordà and the Medes Islands.

A visit to Montgrí Castle is a must-do experience if you’re staying at our apartments in l’Estartit.
In this post, we answer the most frequently asked questions from our guests.

How to get to Montgrí Castle from l’Estartit?

From Sa Gavina Gaudí Apartments in l’Estartit, take the road to Torroella de Montgrí, a drive of about 12 minutes.

From the center of the village, the hiking trail to the castle begins. The route is well marked with red and white signs and follows a stone path of moderate difficulty. The effort is well worth it — the view from the top of Montgrí Castle is unforgettable.

When is the best time to visit Montgrí Castle?

Montgrí Castle is part of the Montgrí, Medes Islands and Baix Ter Natural Park, a unique area that combines sea, mountains, and wetlands.
The best times to visit are:

Spring and autumn: our top recommendation thanks to mild weather and clear views.
Summer: it’s best to hike at sunrise or after 6:00 PM to avoid the heat.
Winter: make sure to wear warm clothing, especially because of the strong winds at the top.

What is the history of Montgrí Castle?

The construction of Montgrí Castle began in 1294 by order of King James II of Aragon, during a conflict with the Counts of Empúries, a powerful family challenging the authority of the Crown of Aragon in the area.

The castle was designed as a strategic military base and symbol of power to control the Empordà territory and monitor the counts. It features a Gothic-military style, with a square plan measuring 31 meters per side and cylindrical towers at the corners about 15 meters tall. The stone from the massif was used in its construction, blending it visually with the rocky landscape.

Construction stopped in 1301, likely because the political conflict eased or costs were too high. The castle remained standing but without interiors or complete defenses. It was never used as a residence or active military fortress.

Are there any tips to keep in mind when visiting Montgrí Castle?

Before starting the hike to the castle, keep in mind the following tips:

Free access: open year-round, no opening hours or entrance fees.
Bring water: no fountains or services along the trail.
Proper footwear: preferably hiking shoes, due to uneven terrain.
Sun protection: no shade; wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Be cautious with children: supervise them on the walls, some areas lack railings.
Dogs allowed: always on a leash, for safety and respect for the park’s wildlife.

Where to stay near Montgrí Castle?

If you haven’t booked accommodation yet, we invite you to discover our apartments in l’Estartit, ideal for exploring the Costa Brava, enjoying the sea, and experiencing cultural hiking at Montgrí Castle.