Where stone walls hold the soul: The timeless charm of Girona’s historic homes

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The soul of history

In Girona, the most sought-after homes aren’t necessarily the newest. More often, they’re the ones that have stood the test of time: stone houses tucked into the hills, farmhouses surrounded by fields, or noble residences that seem to breathe history.

“Across the province, there’s an extraordinary diversity of historic homes,” explains Narcís Casteyó. “From castles and manor houses to masías and country estates. What draws people in isn’t just the architecture, it’s the lifestyle that comes with it.”

Girona city captivates with its old quarter, its Jewish heritage, and its vibrant cultural and culinary life. Beyond the city, medieval villages, natural parks and the beaches of the Costa Brava complete a unique landscape where authenticity and quality of life go hand in hand.

Changing motivations

The profile of buyers looking for these properties has evolved. In Baix Empordà, Spanish clients continue to show strong demand for historic second homes near the coast,where scarcity makes each property a rare and secure investment.

At the same time, a growing number of international families — particularly from the Netherlands, Belgium, the UK, France and the US, are choosing Girona as their main residence. Some settle in the city, attracted by its dynamism and amenities, while others are drawn to areas such as El Gironès or Pla de l’Estany, where they can find stone houses surrounded by nature just twenty minutes from the city centre.

Regions like La Selva, close to Barcelona; La Garrotxa, with its volcanic scenery; and Alt Empordà, offering easy access to France and the northern Costa Brava, each add their own distinctive appeal.

A third type of buyer is also emerging, international clients purchasing masías for hybrid use, combining private living with boutique hospitality projects. The rise of cycle tourism has strengthened this trend: Girona is world-renowned for its mild climate, rolling terrain and extensive network of cycling routes.

“Altogether,” says Casteyó, “the scarcity of supply, the architectural uniqueness and the exceptional surroundings make these homes investments that go far beyond the financial. They offer authenticity, a high quality of life and, in many cases, sustainable business opportunities.”

One-of-a-kind homes

“You can build a villa anywhere in the world if you have the right land,” says Casteyó. “But you can’t recreate a medieval arch or a hand-carved lintel. On non-developable land, where many of these properties are located, their value lies precisely in that rarity. And in Girona, where so many are protected, this becomes even more apparent.”

Some buyers see them as private sanctuaries; others transform them into boutique hotels or rural retreats tied to cycling or nature tourism. Many view them as family legacies to pass down through generations. In certain cases, restoration grants or tax incentives are even available to support conservation.

Ultimately, these are solid, long-term investments that combine exclusivity, history and functionality — the chance to become part of something that has endured for centuries.

Taking the first step

For anyone considering buying one of these historic homes, Casteyó offers a simple but essential piece of advice:

“Don’t rush. Come to Girona without an agenda, stroll through the medieval villages, take in the landscapes, enjoy the food. Once you find the area that resonates with you, that’s when it’s time to start looking for your ideal historic home.”

Lucas Fox guides every buyer with a multilingual team specialising by region, who not only understand the history of each property but also the lifestyle that surrounds it. For restoration projects, the agency collaborates with trusted architects, builders and interior designers who know how to preserve the home’s original character while adding modern comfort.

“These projects aren’t quick,” Casteyó concludes, “but when done right, they’re deeply rewarding. It’s not just about restoring a house — it’s about becoming part of a story that has been alive for centuries.”