Insider’s Guide to Sant Andreu de Llavaneres
Sant Andreu de Llavaneres (known locally simply as “Llavaneres”) is a serene coastal town a short commute from the centre of Barcelona. It sits on the Mediterranean Sea, nestled between Mataró and Sant Vicenç de Montalt and overlooked by the pine forests of the Montalt hills. It combines the elegance of a historic seaside resort with authentic Catalan charm.
I’ve been living in Llavaneres for three years now and honestly, I feel I am always waxing lyrical about the place. It has totally won me over.
When we moved from Barcelona, I was a bit nervous. Would I find decent restaurants? Would I survive without all the city conveniences? Turns out, I had absolutely nothing to worry about. Llavaneres has everything. And I mean everything.
My kids go to the local public school, Serena Vall, and they’re so happy. I’m still in awe every time I hear them speak Catalan and Spanish with ease. It blows my mind. And the local families here are lovely — super friendly, welcoming, and inclusive.
The town itself is really nice. Llavaneres is famous for its Coca de Llavaneres, oh, and its peas… so it’s worth timing a visit for those fiestas. And there are some great hikes up from the village if that’s your thing.
I live down by Port Balís (beach lover here), which is a hive of activity – fantastic restaurants, brunch, and beachside cocktails. It wasn’t our plan to wind up here, but now we have, I can’t imagine being anywhere else. – Zoe Hornby
History & Economy of Sant Andreu de Llavaneres
Zoe Hornby @zoelovescreating
The town has a deep-rooted history dating back to the Neolithic period, as evidenced by archaeological remains of settlements at Sant Magí. During the Roman era, the region developed a strong agricultural identity, centred around vineyards and olive groves around Can Sanç, supplying goods to nearby Barcino (modern-day Barcelona).
By the 19th century, with the advent of the railway and improved road access, Llavaneres became a popular escape for Barcelona’s bourgeoisie, who transformed it into a summer retreat, building modernist mansions and cementing its identity as a refined seaside destination.
Agriculture remained important, but the region’s vineyards were hit hard by the phylloxera plague in the late 19th century. In response, local farmers diversified, focusing notably instead on growing the Pèsol Garrofal de Llavaneres, a highly prized variety of green pea, which has become a gastronomic emblem of the town.
Today, the economy is shaped by a blend of traditional agriculture, tourism, and leisure. The town is home to one of the region’s most prestigious marinas, Port Balís, which has become a vibrant hub for yachting, sailing regattas, and upscale dining.
Alongside tourism, golf and tennis clubs, boutique hospitality, and local gastronomy, highlighted by regional specialties like the Coca de Llavaneres, (a flaky pastry with pine nuts and sweet cream), support a dynamic local economy that remains carefully preserved.
Property in Sant Andreu de Llavaneres
Housing in Llavaneres is a mix of graceful modernist villas, contemporary beachfront homes, and charming townhouses, reflecting the town’s evolution from a rural farming village to a refined seaside retreat.
Prime properties—particularly in areas like Supermaresme, Rocaferrera, and near Port Balís—often feature expansive gardens, panoramic sea views, and high-end architectural design, typically ranging from €1.5 to €2 million and upwards. These homes attract both international buyers and Barcelona-based families seeking space and a more laid back lifestyle.
In contrast, the village centre offers more modest, character-filled townhouses and older apartments, appealing to those who value walkability and traditional charm, all at a relatively more accessible price point. This diversity of options makes Llavaneres one of the Maresme coast’s most versatile and sought-after residential markets.
Eating out in Sant Andreu de Llavaneres
Zoe Hornby @zoelovescreating
Port Balís and its surroundings offer a standout range of food and drink options, from relaxed local spots to more refined seaside dining. Can Perich serves elevated Catalan cuisine, highlighting seasonal, market-fresh ingredients (garrofal peas in spring are a highlight).
GAS Social Club, also on the port, is a popular weekend spot for a vermut and live music, especially in summer when it expands with Gas Quiet Club, featuring DJs and pop-up shops. Baresito is a little local bar a few minutes walk up from the beach and train station. It’s a really popular hub at the bottom of La Riera, but before hitting the port. Run by two Argentinians, Silvina and Ruben, they serve pizzas, authentic empanadas, Rubén prepares a home made tortilla every Friday and they have live music periodically. Oveja Groga is a pop up burger restaurant just off junction 105, with open green space ideal for kids to run around.
For a delicious paella by the water, Viterra is a popular choice among locals. El Racó del Navegant, run by Rosa Nonell and her daughter Mònica Oleart since 1993, is another long-standing favourite known for Mediterranean dishes and fresh fish, ideal for a weekend lunch or special occasion.
Pastisseria Sala (est. 1955) is the go-to for the iconic Coca de Llavaneres and remains the only bakery officially certified to produce this protected local favourite. Sala Vives also sells baked goods, takeaway sandwiches and coffees, and artisanal products.
Shopping in Sant Andreu de Llavaneres
Zoe Hornby @zoelovescreating
Charming delis, greengrocers and the Mercat de Llavaneres fill the town with fresh Catalan produce, including the DOP (denominación de origen protegida, or protected denomination of origin) garrofal peas. They’re featured prominently in spring menus and are the subject of a beloved local pea festival. Tu BioTienda offers organic groceries, pantry items and eco-friendly household essentials. Pescadería Carles Vergé De Montserrat is a wonderful fishmonger offering local fresh catches sourced daily. Carnisseria Giralt is a family-run butcher renowned for local meats, perfect for hosting weekend barbecues.
Beaches of Sant Andreu de Llavaneres
Zoe Hornby @zoelovescreating
Sant Andreu de Llavaneres is home to three main beaches: Les Barques, L’Estació, and El Balís, each offering something different. Les Barques is ideal for families or those seeking a more tranquil beach experience, with assisted bathing services and a central location.
L’Estació Beach runs parallel to the railway and N-II road and has coarse sand and smooth sea access. The beach has a direct track leading to Mataró, making it ideal for walks or bike rides along the Passeig Marítim. El Balís, the smallest and most secluded, lies just beside Port Balís and boasts calm waters, golden sand, and easy access, making it a typically peaceful, uncrowded spot.
Things to do in Sant Andreu de Llavaneres
Zoe Hornby @zoelovescreating
The Museu‑Arxiu in Can Caralt is an 18th-century manor house that showcases local heritage through unique ethnographic collections, vintage cameras and projectors, and an impressive art gallery featuring works by Catalan masters such as Miró, Tàpies, and Guinovart. The museum also houses sculptures by renowned artists and hosts rotating exhibitions.
Architecture lovers will enjoy exploring the town’s modernist gems along the Ruta del Modernisme, including Ca l’Alfaro, Cal Mates, and Cal Tomàs. For a more interactive experience, try El Tresor d’un Rei, the town’s gamified heritage trail, a 1.7km route with eight puzzles leading players to a hidden treasure. The Parc de Ca l’Alfaro in the centre of town has plenty of shaded lawns, walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic spots.
Outdoor Activities
Sports enthusiasts will find plenty to do as well. Club Tennis Mora offers tennis, padel, and a Pitch & Putt golf course. The Club Nàutic El Balís is a hub for sailing and water sports. Lassdive Port Balís offers kayak, and stand-up paddle rentals and jet ski tours.
Inaugurated in 1945, Golf Llavaneras is the fourth oldest private club in Catalunya. Golfers will enjoy this challenging course with narrow but well-defined fairways and views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Sant Andreu de Llavaneres also has excellent hiking and biking routes and Can Sala Bikes, on Passeig Jaume Brutau offers rentals, repairs and accessories, perfect for exploring the Maresme on two wheels.
Yoga, Pilates & Crossfit
Samsara Estudi de Ioga i Pilates is a small, welcoming studio offering Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, and Pilates classes in small groups. They also provide individual or paired sessions. Closer to Port Balís, Wonder Fit Pilates blends Pilates, yoga, and functional training with modern equipment in a friendly space. Box 21-15-9 is a fantastic Crossfit style gym, with a highly professional team and reasonable class pass offers.
Festa Major de Sant Andreu de Llavaneres
Each April, the beloved Festa del Pèsol (Pea Festival) fills Parc Ca l’Alfaro, where visitors can buy pea-themed dishes, pea ice-cream, local wines, ceramics, and the signature Coca.
The mid-summer Festa Major de la Minerva is another much loved local celebration, with food trucks, a fairground along Passeig de Jaume Brutau, Correfocs (fire runs) and live music stages across the town.
The main Festa Major takes place each year over the weekend closest to St Andrew’s Day (30th November), with parades, processions, concerts and film nights. It’s also customary to eat apple-themed dishes.
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