Mas Cànoves – Historic Estate in Sant Julià de Vilatorta, Osona

Mas Cànoves is a magnificent historic Catalan estate dating back to the 17th century, formerly belonging to the family of the Marquises of Vilallonga. Set within the mountains of Sant Julià de Vilatorta, Osona, in central Catalonia and just a few kilometres from Vic, this exceptional summer residence combines centuries of history, architectural grandeur and an extraordinary natural setting.

Spanning approximately 229 hectares of private land and more than 3,000 m² of built area, the estate encompasses the main manor house, masovería, gardens, agricultural land, woodland and a collection of historic auxiliary buildings. Its cultural significance is recognised through its inclusion in the Inventory of the Architectural Heritage of Catalonia, making Mas Cànoves a remarkable example of Catalan architectural and aristocratic heritage.

At the heart of the estate stands the historic main masia, an imposing residence oriented towards the west and surrounded by a romantic landscaped garden. The property incorporates architectural elements dating back centuries, blending the character of a traditional Catalan masia with later adaptations that preserve its historic identity while offering potential for contemporary use.

One of the estate's most distinctive features is its separate defensive tower, connected to the main residence by an elegant suspended bridge leading towards the entrance. The approach culminates in a magnificent dovetailed stone portal, creating an impressive arrival and reinforcing the property's medieval character.

The main residence includes a distinguished noble area with six grand rooms, while the service quarters, masovería and additional buildings provide more than 20 further rooms, with the possibility of expanding the total capacity to approximately 40–60 rooms, subject to the relevant planning and heritage considerations.

The architectural ensemble is complemented by a private chapel dedicated to the Virgin of Núria, adding further historical and cultural significance to the estate. The grounds also include stables, service buildings and other auxiliary structures, allowing the property to operate as a substantial and largely self-contained historic estate.

The surrounding grounds are equally exceptional. 229 hectares of gardens, cultivated fields and woodland provide an extraordinary level of privacy and create a landscape in which the architecture and natural environment coexist harmoniously. The romantic gardens surrounding the masia feature classical colonnades and landscaped spaces, offering an atmospheric setting for private enjoyment, cultural activities or prestigious events.

The history of Mas Cànoves extends far beyond its 17th-century aristocratic legacy. The earliest documentary references to the estate date back to the 9th and 10th centuries, when it was under the authority of Sant Llorenç de Centelles.