A complete guide to do the Vía Verde del Mar in Spain

You can find the Vía Verde del Mar in Spain, in the northern part of the Valencian Community in Castellón province, on the Costa del Azahar or Orange Blossom Coast in English.

The route lies between the two beach town: Benicassim and Oropesa del Mar and is approx. 5,5 km long one way. The excursion is suitable for all fit levels, the entire route goes on flat ground. However, if you would like to go up to the towers, or down to the beaches and coves, or you decide to bypass the tunnel, then you have to hike a bit. But more on these later.

The route can be completed from both sides, either from Oropesa del Mar or from Benicassim. However, I think, it is better to start in Benicassim. On one hand, the 0 km sign is in Benicassim. On the other hand, if you end in Oropesa del Mar, there are several sights you can visit in the town. Therefore you can easily extend it to a whole day program.

The Via Verde in Spain runs along the old railway line on the coastline. It can be completed either on foot or by bike. The route offers a blend of natural beauty and historical landmarks, making it a popular choice for both walkers and cyclists. The Barcelona-Valencia railway line was laid out in the mid-19 century, but with technical developments through the years it became outdated. New requirements emerged, like e.g. trains with higher speed. In result of that a new variant of the route needed to be constructed further inland. Part of the old railway line that crossed the Sierra de Oropesa had become unused. Between 2008 and 2009 this disused section had been transformed into one of the most beautiful greenways.

After the historical detour, let’s get back to completing the route. If you come from Benicassim, from the city center, you should follow the coastline northbound. 

Before you search for the entrance of the greenway, check the “Valencian Biarritz”. Along the shoreline of Benicassim lies the Ruta de las Villas, villas of great architectural diversity and richness. These villas are truly remarkable.

After you pass Voramar beach on the north, turn right and look for the overpass, where the railway crosses the street. Go under it, turn right again, and then you just have to follow the route where it takes you.

The trail starts with little tunnels. Further along around about 1,6 km, you can see the Torre Colomera, also known as Torre Atalaya or Torre el Colomer. This old watchtower was built in 1553 and was used as part of the coastal defence system against the Barbarian pirates. It sits atop a limestone hill and was designed to reinforce surveillance together with the other watchtower further down the route and two other towers: Torre San Vicente in Benicassim and Torreón del Rey in Oropesa del Mar. 

If you continue your way down the road you will reach the other watchtower, the Torre de la Cordá around about 3,5 km of the route. The towers have conical shape, have small windows and both lost their top parts. Both towers worth a visit in my opinion, not just because of the towers themselves, but because of the stunning panoramic views from the cliffs. Next to the watchtowers a resting area and a viewpoint to the Mediterranean Sea can be found.

The path provides access to several secluded beaches and coves, perfect for a refreshing dip or a peaceful rest. Approximately halfway, before you reach the second watchtower, you can find a charming tiny cove, La Renegá. Follow the signs to the Renegá Beach. The shore is rocky, but you can find some shadow and a bar to refresh yourself.

Make sure to bring enough water or something to drink with you, or wear a cap or a hat, because you will need it. There aren’t many shadows along the way where you can hide from the blazing sun.

The route runs between trenches and open areas with vistas of the Mediterranean Sea. And by the last part of the trail there is still much to see. Around about 4 km you reach a long, approx. 600 m tunnel, with automatic lights inside. Also a headlamp or bicycle lamp can be useful to cross. You can decide not to go through the tunnel but around it. This latter option if you are on foot and not by bike, will be much more interesting and fun, you just have to hike a bit. You will come down from the hill right at the end of the tunnel.

Coming out of the tunnel you can already see the village of Oropesa del Mar. The end of the Via Verde trail is at a tiny park next to the beach called Playa de la Concha. I completed the trail in about two and a half hours on foot. I stopped by the towers and viewpoints, and I spent a little time on the beach along the trail, as well.

As I mentioned before, there are some sights you can visit in Oropesa del Mar: the old castle on the hill, the old quarter with narrow streets and the La Virgen de la Paciencia church, the Torre del Rey watchtower or the bullfighting arena before you take a dip in the sea. You can choose between two beaches: the Playa de la Concha at the end of the Via Verde trail I mentioned before, or the Playa Morro de Gos. You can also visit the marina.

The fastest and cheapest way to get back either to Benicassim or where you came from is by train. You can check the timetables and prices here on the website of Renfe, the national railway company.

The Via Verde del Mar combines natural landscapes with historical elements, making it a must-visit for those seeking a scenic experience. The route is lined with typical Mediterranean vegetation, including palm trees and aromatic shrubs. The remnants of the old railway including tunnels add a historical dimension to the trail, allowing travellers to experience a bit of the past.

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