R08 - Peñiscola - Cicloturismo Castellón

Description of the route

The route is comfortable, with a short route and without complicated slopes, ideal for cyclists of any level. It will take you to know the beaches of Peñíscola, from the tourist areas to virgin coves to the south, following the Camino del Pebret. We start at Avenida del Papa Luna, a promenade that runs along the most urbanized part of Peñíscola, with apartments, bars and beach bars. After three kilometers, we head to the castle of Pope Luna, surrounding the Marjal de Peñíscola, a wetland area that retains a bit of Mediterranean nature despite the urbanization. Then, we return to the center of Peñíscola, where in summer there can be quite a lot of traffic, and take the Pebret Road to explore coves such as Cala del Volante and Cala del Moro. After a while enjoying the coast, we return to Peñíscola, completing a relaxing walk through the ancient domains of Benedict XIII.

Points of interest along the route

Avenida del Papa Luna: A promenade that runs through the most urbanized area of Peñíscola, with apartments, bars and beach bars. A lively and typical place of the city. Papa Luna Castle: Emblematic monument of the city, historical residence of Pope Luna in the 15th century. It offers panoramic views and is one of the main tourist attractions of Peñíscola. Marjal de Peñíscola: Wetland area that, although it has been reduced by urbanization, preserves a valuable ecosystem of Mediterranean nature, ideal for lovers of local fauna and flora. Downtown Peñíscola: The old part of the city, with its medieval charm and historic architecture, although in summer it is a very busy area. Camino del Pebret: Route that takes us to explore the coast of Peñíscola, away from the urbanization to enjoy nature and tranquility. Cala del Volante and Cala del Moro: Unspoiled coves south of the city, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the crystal clear waters and natural beauty of the coastline. Return to Peñiscola: After enjoying the coves, we return to the starting point, completing a relaxing tour of the ancient domains of Pope Luna.

Peñíscola is a tourist destination known for its beaches and its history. Its castle, built in the 13th century and residence of Pope Luna in the 15th century, is one of the most visited monuments in Spain. The city, also called “The City on the Sea,” has an old town surrounded by walls and white Mediterranean houses that have attracted productions such as Game of Thrones. In summer, its population grows tenfold thanks to tourism. In addition to its beaches, you can enjoy coves such as Cala del Moro and Cala Argilaga, or explore the Serra d’Irta Natural Park. Peñíscola has a wide gastronomic offer: for inexpensive rice dishes, the Arrocería Polo Sur is a good option; for a varied menu, the Restaurante Tío Pepe; and for quick tapas, La Cocina de Ana. As for accommodation, the Hotel RH Portocristo and the Peñíscola Plaza Suites offer luxury options, while Casa Juanita and the Hotel Mare Nostrum are economical alternatives.

Castle of Peñíscola: one of the fundamental enclaves for the Europe of the 15th century that would live in the religious conflicts the beginning of its exit of the Old Regime. The Portal of San Pedro or Pope Luna: shows in its central part the stone coat of arms of Pedro de Luna. It was the access to the fortress from the sea. The Natural Park of the Sierra de Irta: a reserve of fauna and flora. Here you can find the Hermitage of San Antonio, the Badum Tower or the Mas del Senyor.

Hotel RH Portocristo (Avinguda del Papa Luna, 2): top quality services in an idyllic setting. Peñíscola Plaza Suites (Avinguda Papa Luna, 156): a four-star hotel in the heart of the Azahar coast. Luxury stay. Casa Juanita (Escuela, 4): located next to the old city walls and the castle. The beach is just 50 meters away. Hotel Mare Nostrum (Molino, 4): Simple hotel on the beachfront.