Excursions
Castellón de la Plana offers easy access to beautiful excursions, from mountain hikes to beach towns. Here are some top local excursions:
Albufera Natural Park (Valencia)
Distance: 1 hour by car
Highlights: A massive freshwater lagoon surrounded by rice fields and home to migratory birds, just south of Valencia. You can enjoy the biodiversity and peaceful boat rides on the lagoon.
Activity Tip: Try an authentic paella Valenciana in one of the traditional restaurants nearby, as the area is considered the birthplace of paella.
Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (Valencia)
Distance: 1 hour by car
Highlights: This stunning complex in Valencia is home to the Museo de las Ciencias Príncipe Felipe, an interactive science museum packed with hands-on exhibits covering space, physics, biology, and more—perfect for curious kids of all ages. Right next door is L’Oceanogràfic, Europe’s largest aquarium, where families can explore marine habitats from the Arctic to the tropics, complete with dolphins, sharks, and sea turtles.
Activity Tip: Make a full day of it by visiting both—the combination of science and sea life makes for an unforgettable family experience.
Caves of San José (Coves de Sant Josep)
Distance: 30 minutes by car (in La Vall d’Uixó)
Highlights: These are the longest navigable underground river caves in Europe. You can take a boat ride through the caves and see impressive stalactites and rock formations.
Activity Tip: Book a tour to enjoy the guided underground boat ride and learn about the geological history of the area.
Desert de les Palmes Natural Park (Benicasim)
Distance: 20 minutes by car
Highlights: Known for its red clay mountains, beautiful Mediterranean vegetation, and the ruins of the old Carmelite Monastery. There are scenic trails for hiking and viewpoints offering panoramas of the coast and city.
Activity Tip: Hike up to the Ermita de la Magdalena for panoramic views over Castellón and the coast.
Islas Columbretes (Columbretes Islands)
Distance: A 1-2 hour boat ride from the port of Castellón
Highlights: A volcanic archipelago and natural reserve with diverse marine life, clear waters, and great diving or snorkeling spots. Boat tours are available from the Castellón port.
Activity Tip: Book a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion to explore the marine biodiversity in this protected area.
Montanejos & Horseback Riding
Distance: 1 hour by car
Activities: Montanejos is a beautiful natural area where you can find horseback riding tours suitable for families, taking you through scenic landscapes. Some riding centers cater to beginners, including young children.
Activity Tip: After riding, visit the hot springs nearby, where kids can safely wade in warm water pools.
Morella
Distance: 1.5 hours by car
Highlights: This medieval hilltop town is surrounded by ancient walls and crowned by a castle. It’s one of Spain’s official “most beautiful villages” and known for its stone buildings, charming streets, and views.
Activity Tip: Visit the Morella Castle, then explore the Santa María la Mayor Church, famous for its elaborate Baroque interior.
Peñíscola
Distance: 45 minutes by car
Highlights: A picturesque coastal town with a medieval fortress (Castillo del Papa Luna) overlooking the sea. It’s known for its narrow, cobbled streets, beaches, and historic old town.
Activity Tip: Take a guided tour of the castle, which has been a filming location for movies and TV series. Relax on the beach afterward!
Sierra de Espadán Natural Park
Distance: About 1 hour by car
Highlights: This mountain range offers well-marked trails through lush pine forests, red sandstone rock formations, and traditional villages like Alcudia de Veo and Aín.
Activity Tip: Take a hike to explore the local flora, including the rare cork oak trees, or enjoy a scenic drive through quaint towns and viewpoints.