Castell de Sant Joan Blanes
An 11th-century clifftop watchtower offering unparalleled panoramic views of Blanes and the Mediterranean Sea.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Castell de Sant Joan Blanes
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 11th-century clifftop watchtower offering unparalleled panoramic views of Blanes and the Mediterranean Sea.
"Amazing view! You can see the sea, the mountains, the port and the whole city of Blanes. The scenery takes your breath away."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and uphill walking, so good footwear is a must for exploring the castle and its surroundings.
💧 Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially on warm days. There's a small, discreet water fountain near the entrance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Sea and City Views
Master tower
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the Mediterranean Sea, Blanes coastline, and surrounding mountains.
Medieval Fortifications
Castle grounds
Explore the historic stone walls and remnants of this 11th-century watchtower, offering a glimpse into the past.
Sa Palomera Rock
Near the castle
A prominent rock formation offering unique perspectives and a popular spot for photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Breathtaking Views
Prepare for the Ascent
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and uphill walking, so good footwear is a must for exploring the castle and its surroundings.
💧 Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially on warm days. There's a small, discreet water fountain near the entrance.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Ideal for capturing stunning holiday pictures with incredible views of the sea and town.
🚁 Drone Footage Potential
A great location for drone enthusiasts looking to capture aerial views of the castle and coast.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and uphill walking, so good footwear is a must for exploring the castle and its surroundings.
💧 Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially on warm days. There's a small, discreet water fountain near the entrance.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Ideal for capturing stunning holiday pictures with incredible views of the sea and town.
🚁 Drone Footage Potential
A great location for drone enthusiasts looking to capture aerial views of the castle and coast.
🕰️ Half-Day Excursion
Enjoy a leisurely half-day exploring the castle, views, and nearby areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Castell de Sant Joan for its absolutely breathtaking panoramic views of Blanes, the sea, and the surrounding mountains. The historical significance and the opportunity for stunning photography, especially at sunset, are major draws. While the climb involves stairs, most agree the vistas are well worth the effort.
"Really worth to go if you go to Blanes! Amazing views of the city and sea. Bring water because there are countless stairs to get there but again, is really worth it, it's beautiful. (There is a little font of water right just in the entrance on the right side of the castle, not very visible but there is one in case anyone needs to drink water."
Jacqui Alvarado
"Nice place, not really a castel, but an old town. Nice to make some drone footage. Food and drinks around, prices are okay, €15 pizza, €20-30 main. Nice for a half day. W better to come in the morning, cooler and fewer people."
Sebastian Walter
"Bit of a walk up but beautiful views across Blanes - best to go at sunset I’d say!"
Sarah McQuistan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Castell de Sant Joan Blanes by car, with parking available nearby. Alternatively, there are scenic walking paths with stairs leading up to the castle from Blanes. +1
Yes, parking is available close to the castle, making it accessible for visitors arriving by car. +1
Absolutely! There are tourist paths with stairs that offer a more active way to reach the castle, rewarding you with beautiful views along the way.
While direct public transport to the castle itself might be limited, Blanes is well-connected by bus and train, from where you can take a taxi or walk to the castle.
Many visitors enjoy the walk up, but driving closer and then walking the final stretch is also a popular option. Consider your fitness level and the weather.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds and enjoying the views from Castell de Sant Joan is generally free, allowing easy access for all visitors.
The castle grounds are typically accessible during daylight hours, allowing visitors to enjoy the views throughout the day. Specific hours may vary, so checking locally is advised.
No, there is no entrance fee to explore the exterior and enjoy the panoramic views from Castell de Sant Joan.
While the castle is generally open during daylight, it's best to visit during reasonable hours to fully appreciate the scenery and historical site.
Generally, visitors are free to roam the accessible areas. Respect the historical site and any posted guidelines.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The master tower offers unparalleled panoramic views. The ramparts and the approach paths also provide excellent vantage points for capturing the coastline and town. 
Yes, sunset is a highly recommended time to visit for photographers, as the golden hour light creates a magical atmosphere and stunning visuals.
The castle is a popular spot for drone footage, offering unique aerial perspectives of the historic structure and the Costa Brava coastline.
From the castle, you can see the entire city of Blanes, the Mediterranean Sea, the port, and the surrounding mountains.
Absolutely! The breathtaking views alone make the visit worthwhile, offering a spectacular panorama of the Costa Brava.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are restaurants and cafes in Blanes town and along the coast near the castle, offering various dining options.
Prices for food in Blanes are generally reasonable. You can expect to find pizzas around €15 and main courses ranging from €20-€30.
Picnicking is usually allowed in outdoor public spaces, but check for any specific regulations. Bringing your own water is highly recommended.
While the castle itself doesn't have dining facilities, many restaurants in Blanes offer sea views, providing a pleasant dining experience after your visit.
Blanes offers a range of cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood and traditional Catalan dishes.
🎫 💡 History & Experience
This medieval watchtower dates back to the 11th century, originally built to defend against pirate attacks. Information plates at the site provide historical details.
You can explore the castle ruins, enjoy the stunning panoramic views, take photos, and learn about its history from the information boards.
Yes, families can enjoy exploring the historic site and the expansive views. Ensure children are supervised due to the elevated location.
A visit typically takes about half a day, allowing ample time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.
This is an initiative that uses the Castell de Sant Joan as one of its iconic peaks, encouraging people to explore the region's natural beauty through hiking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the History of Castell de Sant Joan
While it's not a fully preserved castle in the traditional sense, the ruins and the strategic location offer a compelling historical experience. The site has also been integrated into local initiatives like the 'Repte dels Cims de la Selva,' highlighting its significance as a landmark within the natural landscape. This blend of history and natural beauty makes Castell de Sant Joan a unique destination for those interested in the past and stunning coastal scenery.
Capturing the Perfect Shot: Photography at Castell de Sant Joan
Beyond the sweeping vistas, the architectural details of the castle ruins themselves provide excellent subjects for photography. The weathered stone walls, the strategic placement of the tower, and the rugged coastline offer a rich tapestry of textures and forms. For those with a drone, the castle presents an incredible opportunity for aerial photography, showcasing its commanding position above the sea and its integration with the natural environment. Whether you're using a professional camera or just your smartphone, Castell de Sant Joan promises stunning shots that capture the essence of the Costa Brava.
+1Navigating Your Visit: Practical Tips for Castell de Sant Joan
While parking is available nearby, the walk up offers rewarding views. Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more serene experience. Alternatively, late afternoons and sunset provide spectacular lighting for photos. The site is generally free to access, making it an accessible attraction for most travelers. A visit typically takes around half a day, allowing ample time to explore, take photos, and soak in the magnificent scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit