Insider’s Guide to Cabrera de Mar
Set in a small valley from the hills down to the sea, Cabrera de Mar offers a unique mix of history, local culture, and stunning Mediterranean landscapes. Just a short journey from Barcelona, this charming town is the perfect place for those looking to experience authentic Catalan life away from the crowds of the larger coastal destinations in the region. Whether you’re drawn by its fascinating historical sites, active culinary scene or beautiful beaches, Cabrera de Mar has something for everyone.
Having lived in London for many years but growing up in a rural area of the UK, I longed for the slower pace of village life again where school would be just a walk away from home for my children. I found that in Cabrera de Mar, a quaint village where Catalan and Iberian heritage and village fairs form part of the seasonal calendar, bringing community spirit and vibrance to the town. Located on the most southern end of Cabrera on the coast between Vilassar de Mar and Mataró is Pla D’Avella which also forms part of Cabrera de Mar district and has convenient access to the beach and it’s own train station forming part of the R1 train line from Barcelona city centre – should you need to get a quick-fix-buzz of the city. – Marina Salmon
History & Economy of Cabrera de Mar
Cabrera de Mar has a rich history dating back to Iberian and Roman times, as evidenced by the historically significant archaeological sites scattered throughout the town, highlighting its importance as a trading and agricultural hub.
Perched high above the town, the Castell de Burriac offers breathtaking views of Montseny and the Maresme landscapes, and provides a glimpse into its medieval past.
Today, Cabrera de Mar maintains its agricultural traditions, with many local farms producing fresh fruits, vegetables and, of course, wine. The town also benefits from its proximity to Barcelona, making it an attractive location for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle while staying connected to the economic opportunities of the city.
Property in Cabrera de Mar
Cabrera de Mar offers a range of housing options, from charming village homes to historic country estates and luxurious villas with stunning sea views. The town’s blend of rural and coastal charm attracts both local buyers and international investors looking for a peaceful retreat near Barcelona.
Properties here tend to be more spacious than in the city, with many boasting gardens, terraces, and swimming pools. Thanks to its excellent transport connections and high quality of life, Cabrera de Mar has become a desirable location for families, retirees, and remote workers alike. As of December 2024, the average price per square metre is 3,193 €/m² (indomio).
Eating out in Cabrera de Mar
Despite its small size, Cabrera de Mar boasts a fantastic selection of restaurants that showcase the best of Catalan cuisine. Restaurant Santa Marta is a must-visit for fresh, locally sourced Mediterranean dishes in a charming coastal setting. Specialities include grilled fish and arroz de mar y montaña. Masia Can Rodon provides an authentic dining experience in a traditional Catalan farmhouse, where diners can enjoy hearty local dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
For those looking to unwind with a drink, or “tomar copas” as we say in Maresme, ROIG ROIG vins serves an excellent selection of wines and tapas in a cosy, welcoming atmosphere. Meanwhile, Ignasi Pastisser is the town’s much-loved local café, known for its affordable prices and great coffee, making it a favourite spot for locals to start their day.
Shopping in Cabrera de Mar
For a small town, Cabrera de Mar has a diverse shopping scene. Santi’s Shop Boutique, Delicies i més is a unique concept store that includes a café, bakery, children’s play area, and a second-hand shop for kids’ items. El Rebost de la Juliette is a boutique bakery offering high-quality artisanal bread and pastries (their speciality croissant-like bread is a must-try) and there’s a good quality butchers within the grocery store L’Hostal (opened in 1923) which sells locally grown produce. Agrobotiga El Sindicat is a traditional Spanish farmer’s store selling local produce, wines straight from the barrel, and various artisanal and agricultural products. On Tuesdays and Wednesdays, the Plaça De La Fàbrica hosts a farmers’ market selling fresh fruit and vegetables grown in the surrounding fields of Cabrera.
Beaches of Cabrera de Mar
Marina Salmon
Cabrera de Mar’s coastline offers a mix of sandy and rocky beaches, perfect for those looking to relax by the Mediterranean. Beaches along the seafront include Platja de Cabrera, Platja de Santa Margarida, El Molí, and Dels Vinyals, providing excellent swimming conditions and good sailing opportunities. These beaches are well-maintained and tend to be less crowded than those in larger neighbouring towns, making them ideal for a peaceful day by the water. There are normally a good selection of beach bars (xiringuitos) around during the summer especially around the station. 2025 will be the first year there will be no parking by the station, however .
Things to do in Cabrera de Mar
Beyond its lovely beaches and vibrant town centre, Cabrera de Mar offers plenty of activities for residents and visitors of all interests and ages. History buffs will enjoy exploring the town’s well-preserved Roman and Iberian ruins, including Can Benet, the remains of a Roman villa and Clos de Ca l’Arenau, which houses the remains of Iberian thermal baths.
Marina Salmon
Hiking
There’s no shortage of fantastic hiking paths in Cabrera de Mar, such as the walk up to the Castell de Burriac or the Ermita de Santa Elena, a peaceful hermitage that offers a glimpse into the town’s religious heritage. For cycling enthusiasts, the surrounding hills and coastline also provide plenty of excellent routes, including picturesque trails connecting Cabrera with neighbouring towns like Vilassar de Mar and Argentona.
Festivals & Concerts
Cabrera de Mar also hosts various festivals, concerts and cultural and social events throughout the year. The Reyes Magos celebrations at the beginning of January bring a magical atmosphere, with a grand parade through the town, where the Three Kings distribute sweets to children.
During the summer months, the Al Fresco Summer Concerts at Mas Pujol take place in July, featuring outdoor performances in the picturesque gardens of stunning 17th century Catalan farmhouse Mas Pujol. In late July or early August each year, the Emplaça’t Festival offers a blend of music and popular culture, including traditional dances, parades, and concerts that showcase local talent and traditions.
In early autumn, the Verema Festival pays homage to the grape harvest season with wine tastings, traditional grape-stomping activities, and live music. The annual Iberoma Festival in October is an enthusiastic celebration of the region’s ancient history and Iberian and Roman heritage. The festival pays homage to the nearby ancient Iberian settlement of Ilturo and features cultural activities, guided tours, workshops, traditional crafts and historical reenactments.
Festa Major de Cabrera de Mar
Like many Catalan towns, Cabrera de Mar celebrates its Festa Major with great enthusiasm. Held annually in August, the lively Sant Feliu de Cabrera de Mar festival features traditional Catalan music, gegants, folkloric dancing, fireworks, and parades.
Another highlight is the correfoc, where locals dressed as devils run through the streets with firecrackers and sparklers, creating an electrifying atmosphere. The festival is a fantastic opportunity to experience the town’s community spirit and longstanding traditions.
In addition to the summer celebrations, Cabrera de Mar also celebrates the Festa Major de Sant Vicenç in January, with plenty of traditional events, cultural performances, and fun gatherings to brighten up the colder months. Visitors can enjoy traditional botifarrada and participate in the popular race ‘La Santvi, Trail del Senglar’.