Viladrau

Viladrau is a municipality in the Osona region, next to Guilleries and Montseny, which makes its terrain quite rugged.

Its urban centre is made up of narrow, small streets where we find the square and the church of San Martín de Viladrau, documented since the end of the 11th century. Since then it has been affected by various reforms, among which the old Romanesque portico has been converted into small chapels or side naves. The most notable is that of 1769, when the baroque façade of the temple was modified.

The town also has various farmhouses and houses from the 17th and 18th centuries. However, Viladrau is considered a summer resort and residential town, which is why there are large chalets and towers, many of them in the modernist style.

The conglomeration of so many dispersed buildings means that there is a large group of entities that form it: the Casiques, the Cortes, the Indias, Masvidal, the Paitida, the Vernets and the urbanisation of the Guilleries.

Viladrau has a rich cultural life, perhaps linked to its past, as it has been the residence of several literary figures such as Guerau de Liost, who used popular legends to set the scene for his works. Other writers such as Josep Carner and Carles Riba took refuge there during the Spanish Civil War.

Viladrau is also known as the birthplace of the famous bandit Joan Sala i Ferrer, Serrallonga. His history is closely linked to Rocaguinarda and it seems that many of his followers were from Viladrau.

Viladrau is also credited with various periods of witchcraft, where the families of the Martí and Rosquelles farmhouses were accused of witchcraft.

Viladrau is a treasure in itself, as its surroundings are incredible and natural. We find places such as Coll de Joan, the Chestnut of the Nine Branches, the Rosquelles mountain range or the Mirabell hill.

Places of interest

Church of Sant Martí de Viladrau

This church of Romanesque origin, documented since the 11th century, has been renovated several times over the centuries. It stands out for its bell tower and its location in the centre of the town, making it one of the most emblematic spots in Viladrau.

Can Gat Farmhouse

One of the oldest and most representative farmhouses in the area, surrounded by meadows and forests. Its traditional architecture and surroundings make this site an ideal place to discover the rural life of yesteryear.

Fountain of the Paitides

The fountain is surrounded by popular legends about the Paitides, magical beings similar to fairies who, according to oral tradition, inhabited the forests of Viladrau. It is a perfect place to stop in the middle of nature and enjoy the landscape.

Rafael de Casanova House Museum

Birthplace of Rafael de Casanova, the chief advisor of Barcelona during the siege of 1714. Its history and importance in the War of Succession make it a key historical point of interest for Catalan culture.

Montseny and natural surroundings

Viladrau is located in the Montseny Natural Park, a UNESCO biosphere reserve. Its paths, forests and mountains offer a wide variety of excursions for hiking and nature lovers.

Chestnut of the Nou Ramas

It is one of the most famous monumental trees in Catalonia, dating back several centuries. It is said to have been a meeting place for witches during the Middle Ages and is surrounded by legends and popular traditions.

Black Gorg

A spectacular natural site located near the village. It is a small waterfall surrounded by lush nature, also linked to legends of witchcraft and fantastic beings.