Top 14 Castles around Vilobí D'Onyar

The castles in this region, including the Castell de Vilobí d'Onyar, are deeply rooted in local history, often marking the origin points of settlements. They showcase centuries of architectural evolution, from 12th-century foundations to later Gothic and Neo-Gothic alterations. These structures, like the Brunyola Castle, which stands on a hill where its town now thrives, provide a tangible link to the medieval past of Girona province.

The Castell de Vilobí d'Onyar is a significant historical landmark, considered the origin point of the town. While its fortified walls and medieval towers are still discernible, it is a private residence and not explicitly open for public tours. However, its historical importance and preserved medieval inventory make it a fascinating site to observe from the exterior.

Many castles offer impressive panoramic views. For example, from Farners Castle, located at 431 meters, you can climb its tower for exceptional vistas of Les Guilleries and the La Selva plain. Similarly, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Argimon, though a religious building, is also an excellent belvedere offering wide views of La Selva and Gironès.

While specific family-friendly activities at each castle are not detailed, castles like Farners Castle allow visitors to enter the enclosure and walk around, which can be engaging for children. The town of Maçanet de la Selva, which has historical ties to castles, is also noted as family-friendly, offering a broader area to explore.

The castles around Vilobí D'Onyar showcase a range of architectural styles. You'll find Romanesque structures like Farners Castle, High Middle Ages Gothic designs at Brunyola Castle, and fortified Gothic-style mansions such as Torre de Marata. Many have undergone modifications over centuries, blending original medieval elements with later alterations.

The region around Vilobí D'Onyar offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy routes like the 'La Crosa Volcano' loop or moderate options such as the 'Hermitage of Sant Llop – Resclosa de Can Borra' loop. For cycling enthusiasts, there are gravel biking and road cycling routes, including those that pass by castles, like the 'Brunyola Castle – Vilobí d'Onyar' loop. You can explore more options on the hiking guide, gravel biking guide, and road cycling guide for the area.

While not explicitly a 'hidden gem' in the guide data, Castillo de Montsoriu in Arbúcies is considered one of the most representative castles of Girona and the Costa Brava, offering a significant example of medieval fortresses in the region. It's a notable site for those looking to delve deeper into the area's rich history beyond the immediate vicinity of Vilobí D'Onyar.

The region generally enjoys a Mediterranean climate. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are often ideal, offering pleasant temperatures for exploring the outdoor castle grounds and enjoying the panoramic views without the intense heat of summer. Winter can also be a good time for cooler, quieter visits, though some facilities might have reduced hours.

Yes, some historical castle sites in the region are privately owned. For instance, the Castell de Vilobí d'Onyar is a private residence. Similarly, Torre de Marata, a fortified Gothic-style mansion, is also private property and can only be viewed from outside its enclosure.

While specific cafes or restaurants directly at every castle are not listed, the town of Brunyola, where Brunyola Castle is located, has a bar restaurant. Exploring the nearby towns and villages like Vilobí D'Onyar itself or Maçanet de la Selva will provide more options for refreshments and meals.

The terrain varies depending on the castle. For example, Farners Castle is located at 431 meters on Turó del Vent, implying an ascent, but visitors can enter the enclosure. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Argimon involves an intense and quite steep climb along a wide track. Many castles are situated on hills, requiring some uphill walking or driving to reach them.