Via Verde del Mar

Via verde del Mar is an almost six kilometers route that connects Benicàssim and Oropesa del Mar. It was created using an old section of the railway route that existed between the cities of Valencia and Barcelona until 2003. The road is paved and flat so the walk isn't difficult and can be done by anybody either on foot or by bicycle. There are plenty of rest areas to stop for a picnic or just take a break. It gets very busy in the high season, I would recommend starting early in the morning. We, however, did this walk in December and even though the weather was very pleasant there were not many people. 

It's possible to start the walk from both Benicàssim and Oropesa del Mar. In case you are coming by car, keep in mind that it is not a circular route, once you're done with it you will need to go all the way back to your car the same way. We arrived by car to Oropesa del Mar, left it at the beginning of the road, walked to the train station, took a train to Benicàssim and walked to the beginning of Via Verde near the Voramar beach. This took us an extra half an hour, but not a bad idea if you are not willing to walk the same route twice. 

In the beginning of the route we walked through the beautiful 'corridor' surrounded by steep cliffs. Further, along the way there are many viewpoints. Mostly, hidden coves, stone beaches and rocky shores behind the pine woods. Also, two watch towers that were used to defend the coast from the pirate attacks. At the end of the walk we had to pass through a 600 meters long tunnel excavated inside the rocky hill. Immediately after that we arrived at the nautical club of Oropesa del Mar and eventually, the end of the Via Verde. 

Feel free to send me your suggestions for must-visit places in the province of Castellón and beyond.