Perhaps it’s understandable that the vast majority of visitors to REGION OF VALENCIA are drawn to sun-soaked Alicante and the famous Costa Blanca, or the vibrant and bustling city that is this historic region’s namesake. But hikers and hillwalkers in search of a more adventurous Mediterranean holiday might want to look a little further north, to the province of Castellón.
Boasting its own regional airport, whilst also being within easy reach of Valencia itself, direct flights from the UK make Castellón an easy choice. There’s an excellent road network to mountain and rural areas, and plenty of welcoming accommodation in which to stay plus a wealth of small, local restaurants that offer traditional regional cuisine – the perfect way to relax after a great day’s adventure.
Combine that with an average of more than 300 days of sunshine a year, and it makes Castellón the perfect destination for active outdoor enthusiasts. As the second most mountainous province in Spain, it’s a natural playground for hiking, trail running, climbing, road cycling, mountain biking and horseback riding.
And if you want to turn your trip into a multi-sport holiday, then Castellón also offers a host of unique waterborne and underground adventures, from canyoning and canoeing to sea kayaking and scuba diving, not to mention potholing and caving.
Hiking in Castellón
Castellón boasts a network of more than 1,200 kilometres (over 700 miles) of signposted hiking trails. Exploring them on foot is undoubtedly the best way to discover the unique character of this landscape, as well as experiencing Mediterranean cultural heritage and the traditional Valencian way of life.
There are over 140 official routes, plus additional signposted routes which are not officially registered but are found in all municipalities. Official routes are generally classified into three types. First, there are the Gran Recorrido (GR) routes, long, multi-day trails that cross the province. The biggest challenge is the Valencian section of the GR 7, though it can be easily broken up into shorter sections.
Next are the Pequeño Recorrido (PR) routes, which are shorter hikes of between 10 and 50km. Often these are spurs off the longer GR trails, but many also follow traditional routes, linking historic rural villages.
Last are the Senda Local (SL) routes, the shortest half-day hikes, that typically take just an hour or two – perfect for less strenuous walks.
Experience Els Ports
A particular highlight of Castellón is Els Ports, one of 22 designated natural parks in the Community of Valencia. This mountainous area features dramatic cliff faces, forests, valleys and abundant wildlife from majestic ibex to wild boar, badgers, foxes, wildcats, squirrels, otters, Griffon vultures, eagles and many other types of birdlife. It also has endless possibilities for keen walkers and hikers, with a network of interlinking mountain paths and tracks.
Perhaps the best basecamp for exploring Els Ports is Morella, its capital. This ancient walled city, perched on a hill-top, is renowned for its cultural heritage and has been cited as one of the most beautiful towns in Spain.
The town has no shortage of sights, and the view from the ruined ramparts is spectacular. Similarly, the city walls are an impressive two kilometres long, featuring six gateways and 14 towers. You could spend a memorable day wandering Morella’s narrow streets, sampling local delicacies like cheese, charcuterie and honey or shopping for traditional woollen wares.
Picturesque Penyagolosa
Another must-visit for summit baggers and landscape lovers is Parque Natural Penyagolosa. This unforgettable mountainscape takes in an area of more than 2,700 acres. Much of it is thickly wooded with Scots and black pine, as well as Pyrenean oak, maple, lime, holly, wild apple and yew, interspersed with rocky uplands, which provide a habitat for several important species. This includes golden eagles, vultures, red-billed chough, mountain goats and smaller mammals such as shrews and voles. You may well spot many of these as you hike its many trail through beautiful woodland and breathe in the fresh mountain air.
At the heart of the park is the mountain of Penyagolosa itself. At 1,813m (5,948ft), this mighty peak is the second highest in the whole of REGION OF VALENCIA. The summit offers spectacular views over Castellón and neighbouring Aragón. It’s a rewarding challenge for keen mountain hikers, most of whom set out from the historic hermitage of Sant Joan de Penyagolosa, an ancient pilgrimage site that is one of the best-known sights in the park. Be sure to stop off and visit the chapel, where you’ll be following in the footsteps of generations who have walked before you.
The park is also situated close to little-known towns that are of great monumental and scenic beauty such as Chodos, Vistabella del Maestrazgo and Villahermosa del Río – all worthy of a visit, not least for their excellent accommodation and food options.
Find out more
Intrigued by the attractions of Castellón, Penyagolosa, Els Ports and Morella? Start planning your Valencia hiking holiday today at www.comunitatvalenciana.com