Between the Mediterranean and the green slopes of the Montnegre-Corredor Natural Park, Arenys de Mar brings together the very best of the Maresme: a leading fishing port, wide golden-sand beaches, a lively historic centre and a strategic location just 44 km from Barcelona. With 16,642 inhabitants (INE 2024), this coastal town combines Mediterranean character, a full range of services and a growing residential market that attracts both families and international buyers looking for a home near Barcelona with an authentic lifestyle.
Arenys de Mar lies at the end of the Riera d’Arenys, the urban axis connecting the town with Arenys de Munt and opening into the sea. The municipality is served by the C-32 motorway (Maresme Motorway), the N-II road and the Maresme railway line, all running parallel to the coast and providing direct connections to Barcelona and Girona. This excellent accessibility, together with the local services on offer, has consolidated Arenys as both a permanent residence and a second-home destination.
Port d’Arenys is one of the most important fishing harbours on the Catalan coast. Every afternoon, the return of the fleet activates the traditional fish auction, a ritual that brings maritime heritage closer to both residents and visitors. Arenys prawns, squid and rock fish dominate local menus and markets, and in October the Calamarenys food festival celebrates the star product of the season with dedicated menus and gastronomic events.
The port also offers leisure moorings, shipyards and nautical services that support the local economy. For sailing enthusiasts, Arenys provides a very convenient base for cruising along the Maresme coastline and the Costa Brava.
The beaches of Arenys de Mar stand out for their generous width and medium-grained sand, making them ideal for families. Platja de la Picòrdia, next to the town centre, is the most popular; heading north towards Canet de Mar, the shoreline opens into long stretches perfect for walking or running at sunset. During the season, the town offers full facilities, beach bars and clearly signposted bathing areas.
Although Arenys is a relatively young town (it became an independent municipality at the end of the 16th century), it played a key role in Catalan navigation during the 18th and 19th centuries. The urban fabric is organised around La Riera, a tree-lined avenue that concentrates shops and social life, and a network of historic streets featuring stone gateways, chapels and former shipowners’ houses. Santa Maria Church and the historic guilds link the present with a maritime tradition that is still very much alive in the port.
Situated between sea and mountains, Arenys offers direct access to highly valued natural surroundings. The Montnegre i el Corredor Natural Park features forest tracks and signposted trails for hiking and mountain biking, with views over the coastline and Mediterranean pine and cork oak forests. Just minutes away, a network of local paths provides easy family-friendly routes, ideal for weekend plans combining beach and nature.
The town preserves distinctive traditions that reinforce its identity: local festivals, parades and popular celebrations shape the annual calendar. Cultural programming includes music, performing arts and educational activities, while an active local community keeps a steady rhythm of life around Plaça de l’Església and the municipal facilities. For visitors, Arenys is a comfortable and welcoming destination; for residents, it offers a strong sense of community and a full range of services.
Demand is driven by both local and international families seeking a house with a garden 30–45 minutes from Barcelona, as well as by buyers looking for sea-view apartments as second homes. The most sought-after property types include:
Renovated village houses in the town centre, with terraces and interior patios.
Contemporary homes in residential areas, featuring high energy efficiency (aerothermal systems, photovoltaic panels) and seamless indoor–outdoor layouts.
Sea-view apartments and penthouses near the seafront, highly attractive for seasonal rentals.
Micro-location: proximity to La Riera, the port and the railway station, orientation and views.
Construction quality and energy efficiency: insulation, carpentry and climate systems reduce operating costs and protect long-term value.
Mobility: fast access to the C-32, N-II and commuter rail.
Services: local shops, restaurants, sports and educational facilities.
Define the intended use (main residence, second home or investment) to fine-tune the search by micro-location and property type.
Prioritise building envelope and systems: check energy certificates and technical specifications; assess annual running costs.
Verify local planning regulations (watercourse protection areas, heritage listings, homeowners’ associations).
Analyse rental potential: proximity to the station, port and beach increases occupancy during high season and holiday periods.
Plan for maintenance: essential for medium and large houses; request a preventive capex estimate.
Arenys’ cuisine speaks the language of the sea: traditional suquets, rice dishes and grilled seafood coexist with contemporary interpretations. Fresh auction fish makes a real difference, and the local market allows residents to stock their weekly pantry with top-quality local produce. For a complete experience, combine seafood cuisine with nearby wines from the DO Alella and DO Empordà appellations.
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