Sant Pol de Mar and Caldes d’Estrac: Living in the Most Authentic Maresme
Some villages in the Maresme have kept their seafaring character just a few kilometres from Barcelona. Sant Pol de Mar and Caldes d’Estrac are two of them: human-scale towns with whitewashed streets, quiet beaches and a daily life that invites you to slow down. For many buyers, they are the most authentic version of the Mediterranean close to the city.
Sant Pol de Mar: a fishing village with views
Sant Pol has kept an old quarter of whitewashed houses and narrow streets running down to the sea, crowned by the hermitage of Sant Pau, one of the most beautiful viewpoints on the coast. Its beaches and coves, culinary tradition and serene atmosphere make it highly appreciated both for year-round living and as a second home.
Homes range from village houses to sea-view villas in the upper areas and a few estates surrounded by nature next to the Montnegre i el Corredor Natural Park.
Caldes d’Estrac: thermal waters and a seafront promenade
Caldes d’Estrac, known locally as Caldetes, is one of the smallest towns in the Maresme and one of the most charming. Its thermal waters, used since Roman times, its stately summer houses and its promenade along the beach give it an elegant, relaxed feel. The Fundació Palau, devoted to the writer and artist Josep Palau i Fabre, adds an interesting cultural offer.
Its compact layout means you can do everything on foot: restaurants, the beach and services are a few minutes away. It borders Sant Vicenç de Montalt and Arenys de Mar, which widens the choice of homes considerably.
Connections and daily life
Both towns have a station on the Maresme coastal railway linking them to Barcelona, as well as quick access to the C-32 motorway —a real advantage for those who work in the city or prefer not to rely on the car.
What type of property you will find
- Renovated village houses in the old quarters, close to the beach.
- Sea-view villas on the hillsides, with gardens and pools.
- Early 20th-century stately homes, especially in Caldes d’Estrac.
- Apartments with terraces on the first or second line from the sea.
Key points before buying
- Bear in mind the railway line between the village and the beach: depending on location, it affects noise and sea access.
- In older houses, check the structure, damp and installations, as well as any heritage protection.
- Assess slopes and access in the hillside residential areas.
If you are comparing towns, see our guide where to buy a luxury house in the Maresme and our article on Arenys de Mar.
Frequently asked questions
Can you live in Sant Pol de Mar all year round?
Yes. Sant Pol keeps its community life and services all year and is connected to Barcelona by train and motorway.
What makes Caldes d’Estrac special?
Its small size, thermal waters, seafront promenade and summer-house architecture, which give it a calm, elegant character.
Explore our homes for sale in Sant Pol de Mar, our properties in Caldes d’Estrac and all our luxury properties for sale in the Maresme, or contact our advisors.
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