El Maestrat Road Trip

Embark on a journey through the El Maestrat region of Spain and discover its hidden gems. Start your journey in the city of Peniscola, and make your way through the towns of Sant Mateu, Ares del Maestrat, and Morella. This 250 km road trip is best done over two days, and the best time of year to go is in the spring or fall. The roads are in good condition, though some of them are curvy or narrow in places. As you make your way through the towns, you will be able to explore the local culture, architecture, and history. From the ancient city walls of Sant Mateu to the archaeological sites of Ares del Maestrat, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Morella offers breathtaking views of the Sierra de Espadà mountain range, and the stunning landscapes of the region will stay with you long after you have returned home. This road trip offers a great experience for drivers of all levels and can be done on a moderate budget. With its varied attractions and stunning scenery, it is sure to provide you with wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.

Peniscola is a beautiful coastal town in the province of Castellón, Spain, located on the Mediterranean Sea. It is the perfect starting point for the El Maestrat Road Trip and is a great place to explore the region's rich culture and stunning natural beauty. The old town, also known as the Ciudad Vieja, is a great place to explore, with its cobblestone streets and ancient castle. The Castillo de Peniscola, a 14th-century fortress, is the town's main attraction. Visitors can climb up to the top of the castle and enjoy spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea. The town also has several museums, including the Museo de la Ciudad and the Museo del Mar, which offer visitors an insight into the town's rich history and culture. The town is also known for its stunning beaches. Playa Norte and Playa de la Torre are two of the most popular beaches in town, and visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing and other activities. Additionally, visitors can take a boat trip out to the nearby island of Peñíscola, which is a great spot for snorkeling and diving. The closest international airport to Peniscola is Reus Airport (REU), located approximately 70 kilometers away. The airport has several car rental companies, making car travel the most convenient way to explore the area. Peniscola is a fantastic destination to explore, and the perfect starting point for the El Maestrat Road Trip. With its stunning beaches, ancient castle, and rich culture, visitors can enjoy a truly memorable experience.

Embark on an exciting road trip from Peniscola to Sant Mateu! This scenic 36 km journey will take you less than an hour, and you can expect to be mesmerized by winding roads and narrow sections. As you drive, you will be surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, making this a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Once you reach Peniscola, make sure to explore the old town and its castle, which was built in the 14th century. From there, you can take a stroll by the beach and take in some of the stunning views. Afterwards, don’t forget to visit the beautiful monastery of Santa Maria de Peniscola. As you continue your journey, you will come across the charming town of Sant Mateu. Here, you can explore the old churches, the town square, and the remains of a medieval castle. This is also an ideal spot for a picnic, as it is surrounded by lush green fields. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!

Embark on an exciting road trip from Sant Mateu to Ares del Maestrat! This route is 48 km long and takes less than 2 hours to complete, so it's perfect for a day trip. Along the way, you'll be treated to stunning views of the countryside, so keep an eye out for the narrow sections of the road. Make sure to stop at the beautiful Monastery of Sant Mateu, as well as the historical centre of Ares del Maestrat. For more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. So, buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable journey!

Embark on a 74km journey through the stunning landscape of Ares del Maestrat, Spain, and enjoy the winding roads that lead you through Cantavieja, Mirambel and end in the beautiful town of Morella. In less than 2 hours, you will be able to take in the breathtaking views of the mountain passes, and discover the hidden gems of each town. Start your journey in Ares del Maestrat, and take a stroll through the cobbled streets of the old quarter, where you can find the remains of the old castle. In Cantavieja, visit the Church of Santa Maria, a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture. In Mirambel, you can take a break and explore the ruins of the old castle, or take a walk along the river. Finally, arrive in Morella and take in the incredible views from the old castle, or visit the Church of Santa Maria. Along the way, you will be able to admire the stunning landscape, as the road winds through the mountains. In some sections the road is very winding, so pay attention to the signs and take it slow. In other sections the road will be narrow, so be sure to drive carefully. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready for a road trip through some of the most beautiful places in Spain, and have a great time!

Embark on a scenic road trip from Morella to Catí! This 32 km journey will take you less than an hour, and you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You'll have to be careful while driving, however, as there are some steep ramps and winding roads along the way. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for some of the most picturesque spots in the area! Once you reach Catí, you'll be able to explore the city and its surroundings. There are many interesting places to visit, such as the Church of Santa Maria de Catí, the Plaza Mayor, and the Castle of Catí. You can also take a stroll around the old quarter of the city and visit some of the local shops and restaurants. Make sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your road trip from Morella to Catí!

Welcome to the Cati-Vinaròs-Peniscola road trip! This 60 km route will take you less than an hour to complete, and will take you through some of the most beautiful parts of Spain. Start your journey in Cati, where you can enjoy the historic architecture and the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Then, continue your journey to Vinaròs, where you can explore the old town and enjoy some of the best seafood in the region. Finally, make your way to Peniscola, where you can visit the castle of Papa Luna and the old city walls. Here, you can also take a relaxing stroll along the beach and take in the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea. This is just one stage of a larger tour. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Peniscola is the perfect ending point of the El Maestrat Road Trip. Located in the east of Spain, the city is a jewel of the Mediterranean coast. It is a great destination for travelers looking to explore the culture of the Valencian Community and enjoy its beautiful beaches. The city is also known as the City of the Sea and its main attraction is the impressive Peniscola Castle, built in the 14th century by the Knights Templar. The castle is perched on a small rocky island connected to the city by a bridge. The castle is a great place to explore the history of the region and admire the beautiful views from atop its walls. In addition to the castle, travelers can explore the old town, which is full of narrow cobblestone streets, churches and monuments. The Plaza Mayor is a great place to enjoy a coffee or a glass of local wine and watch the world go by. For those looking for a more active day, there are plenty of options for water sports, such as kayaking, windsurfing and sailing. At the end of the day, travelers can enjoy a delicious meal of traditional Valencian cuisine in one of the many restaurants in the city. The closest international airport to Peniscola is Reus Airport (REU), located about an hour and a half away by car. Peniscola is a beautiful city full of culture, history and beautiful beaches. It is the perfect ending point for the El Maestrat Road Trip.

Before you set off

Embark on a picturesque 250 km Road Trip through the El Maestrat region of Spain, a journey that winds through the charming cities and towns of Peniscola, Sant Mateu, Ares del Maestrat, and Morella. This captivating route delves deeply into the region's cultural heritage, architectural marvels, and storied past, making it an ideal itinerary for a two-day exploration filled with discovery and wonder.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Peniscola: Start your adventure in this beautiful coastal city, renowned for its golden beaches and the iconic Castle of Peñíscola, a fortress with ties to the Knights Templar and a filming location for the popular series Game of Thrones.
• Sant Mateu: Wander through this historic town, where you can admire well-preserved medieval city walls, a Gothic church, and a number of palatial homes that speak to its past importance as a trading hub.
• Ares del Maestrat: Venture into this elevated village where you'll find remarkable archaeological sites, including ancient rock paintings in the surrounding caves, and the opportunity to visit the Iberian settlement of La Coveta.
• Morella: Conclude your Trip with the stunning panoramic views of the Sierra de Espadà mountain range, and immerse yourself in the town's gothic architecture, including the impressive Morella Castle that looms over the landscape offering a glimpse into medieval fortifications.

Best Time to Go:

The ideal seasons to undertake this Road Trip are spring or fall when the weather is temperate and the natural scenery is particularly striking. The spring bloom and fall foliage create a breathtaking backdrop for your journey.

Potential Risks:

Drivers should exercise caution on winding mountain Roads and areas with limited visibility. Always stay informed about the latest weather forecasts and be prepared for changes that could affect driving conditions, such as fog or rain.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The Roads in El Maestrat are well-maintained, providing a comfortable driving experience suitable for motorists with varying levels of expertise.
• This Road Trip is attainable on a moderate budget, with many affordable dining and lodging options along the route.
• The El Maestrat region is a tapestry of landscapes ranging from coastal shores to rugged mountains, coupled with a rich tapestry of historical sites that offer a harmonious blend of natural splendor and cultural depth.

A good choice for:

The El Maestrat Road Trip is an enriching excursion offering an array of breathtaking vistas and historical treasures. This unforgettable journey through the heart of Spain's rich cultural landscape is sure to etch lasting impressions and memories for every RoadTripper.