A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Peñíscola: The City in the Sea and the Jewel of the Costa del Azahar

Introduction

Peñíscola, also known as the "City in the Sea", is a small coastal town located in the province of Castellón, in the Valencian Community, Spain. This city, which is located on the Costa del Azahar, is famous for its impressive castle, its beautiful beaches, and its charming old town. With its rich history and stunning natural beauty, Peñíscola is a tourist destination not to be missed.

The Castle of Papa Luna

The Castle of Papa Luna is undoubtedly the highlight of any visit to Peñíscola. This impressive castle, which is located on top of a rock that juts out into the sea, was built in the 13th century by the Order of the Temple and later became the residence of Papa Luna, one of the popes of Avignon. From the castle walls, visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

The Old Town

The old town of Peñíscola is another of the city's tourist attractions. This charming neighborhood, which is located within the castle walls, is full of narrow and cobbled streets, white houses, and traditional shops and restaurants. Here, visitors can stroll, buy souvenirs, and taste the delicious local cuisine.

The Beaches

Peñíscola has some of the most beautiful beaches on the Costa del Azahar. The North Beach, which stretches for more than 5 kilometers, is perfect for sunbathing and swimming. The South Beach, on the other hand, is quieter and offers stunning views of the castle. In addition, the city has several coves and smaller beaches, perfect for those seeking a bit of tranquility.

The Sierra de Irta Natural Park

Just south of Peñíscola is the Sierra de Irta Natural Park, a beautiful natural space that offers a wide variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can hike or cycle along the park's numerous trails, enjoy a picnic in one of the rest areas, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the place.

The Gastronomy

Gastronomy is another of the great attractions of Peñíscola. The city is famous for its delicious seafood, especially its lobster and paella. In addition, visitors can try other traditional dishes from the region, such as all i pebre (an eel stew) or fideuà (a kind of paella made with noodles).

Gastronomic Products of Peñíscola

• Vinaroz Prawns

  The Vinaroz prawns are a highly valued product in the gastronomy of Peñíscola. These crustaceans are caught on the nearby coasts and are characterized by their large size and intense flavor. They can be tasted in many ways, although they are especially delicious grilled with a little salt and lemon.

• Rices

  Paella is the star dish of the Valencian Community, and Peñíscola is no exception. Here all kinds of rices are prepared, from the traditional "arroz a banda" to black rice or lobster rice. All of them are cooked with fresh and local products, which gives them a unique flavor.

• Seafood Products

  Given its location on the coast, Peñíscola has a wide variety of fresh fish and seafood. Among them, monkfish, sea bream, turbot or grouper stand out. Mussels, clams and oysters are also highly appreciated, which can be tasted in many restaurants in the city.

• Garden Products

  Peñíscola is also famous for its garden products, especially for its oranges and tangerines. These fruits, which are grown in the nearby fields, are highly appreciated for their sweet taste and juiciness. In addition, they are used in the preparation of many local desserts and liqueurs.

Sporting Activities in Peñíscola, Castellón

Hiking

Peñíscola offers hiking routes that will allow you to enjoy nature and panoramic views of the city and the sea. The Sierra de Irta Route is one of the most popular.

Cycling

The varied terrain of Peñíscola is ideal for cycling. You can rent a bike and explore the city or venture into the surrounding hills for a greater challenge.

Water Sports

Peñíscola's coastal location makes it a perfect place for water sports. You can try paddle surfing, kayaking, sailing or even diving.

Golf

A short distance from Peñíscola, you'll find several high-quality golf courses. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, you can enjoy a day on the green.

Places near Peñíscola

If you are in Peñíscola and wish to explore a bit more, here we present you with some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Morella, a medieval gem in Castellón, Spain, fascinates with its impressive castle, centuries-old walls and cobblestone streets. It stands out for its cuisine, especially the sheep cheese, black truffle and homemade sausages.

Benicarló, a coastal gem in Spain, is famous for its fishing port and its delicious artichoke with designation of origin. Its beaches, its historical heritage and its gastronomic festivities attract visitors from all over the world.

Vinaròs, a coastal gem of Spain, is famous for its beautiful beaches and exquisite cuisine. Known for its prawns, it offers an unforgettable culinary experience, combined with a relaxing atmosphere and stunning views of the Mediterranean.