R03 – Morella
Route
Description of the route
If you are an experienced cyclist and are looking for a bigger challenge, the third route we propose is one of the most demanding in the area, with a cumulative elevation gain of 2260 meters in 127 kilometers. This route is similar to the stages that Roberto Heras won in 2000 and Denis Menchov in 2004 during the Vuelta a España. From Morella, you will leave towards Ares del Maestrat on the CV12, where you will face the softer side of the Ares pass. Then, you will start a descent towards Benassal before climbing from 700 meters to 1400 meters in less than 40 kilometers. The route between Benassal and Vilafranca is particularly demanding, with winding roads that increase the gradient. When you reach Vilafranca, you will continue along the CV15 downhill without a break, advancing to the border of the province of Castellón, where the slopes will give you no respite.
Then, you will enter Aragón and reach La Iglesuela del Cid. From there, you will take the A227 to the top of Cantavieja, with slopes of over 10%. After reaching this point, you will still have more than 40 kilometers to return to Morella, but this time the terrain will be more favorable, passing through Mirambel and La Mata. After crossing Forcall, you will only have to celebrate your feat on your way back to the capital of Els Ports.
Points of interest along the route
High of Coll de Ares
Viewpoint of Morella
Exit of Morella
Having coffee in the historic center of the capital of Els ports
Winding descent towards Benassal
Morella, located in the region of Els Ports, is one of the most impressive towns in the province of Castellón. Its medieval castle, built on the rock of La Mola in the thirteenth century, and its intact walls transport us to important historical moments, such as the War of the Spanish Succession. In December 1710, Philip V ‘s troops besieged the city, which resisted the attack for 62 days until, on February 3, 1711, the Bourbon troops managed to enter and put an end to the war in the Kingdom of Valencia. In addition to its historical legacy, Morella stands out for its impressive mountainous environment, being an ideal place to enjoy cycling routes through the Iberian Mountain Range. Morella’s gastronomy is also a great attraction, especially the Morella truffle, which grows in the area from December to March. The region’s livestock tradition also offers highly valued local meats. To enjoy these delicacies, we recommend visiting restaurants such as Vinatea or Daluan, where the truffle is the main ingredient. If you plan to spend the weekend, Morella offers several accommodation options, such as rural houses or the Hotel Rey Don Jaime, in the center of town, or the Hotel Cardenal Ram, a former 16th century palace overlooking the mountains.
The Church of Santa Maria: The Archpriestly Church of Santa Maria is a Gothic building that contains original stained glass windows of the Valencian school of the eleventh century
Ermita de Santa Llúcia i Sant Llacer: The brotherhood of Sant Llacer, founded in 1280, built this chapel in 1286 for the assistance of leporosos.
Morella Castle: castle built on a rock, which together with its long history, was declared a Historic-Artistic Monument in 1931.
Prehistoric cavesof Morella La Vella (cave paintings World Heritage Site).
Hotel Rey Don Jaime (Juan Giner, 6): located in the heart of the city with mountain views.
Hotel Cardenal Ram (Cuesta Suñer, 1): built in an old palace from the 16th century.
