L´alt Maestrat, Mountains of the Mediterranian

Traditional agriculture and cattle raising have contributed to the modelling of a rich countryside dotted with the results of human activities, alternating with holm oak and pine forests. To enjoy panoramic views, there are excellent lookout points on the peaks of Tossal de la Nevera (Catí, 1,281m), La Mola d'Ares (Ares del Maestre, 1,318m), and the Sant Cristòfal chapel (Benasal). For resting and relaxing, visit the fountains of Font de l’Avellà or the Font d’En Segures. For complete solitude, the river Montlleó hides canyons accessible only from Culla or Vilafranca. In winter the snow accentuates the contrasting attractions of this unique Mediterranean mountain landscape that one should take in and enjoy as calmly as possible.

Els Ports de Morella- Stones Reign Supreme (Morella)

These are highlands crowned by the fortified town of Morella, whose silhouette stands tall on the horizon. In this district, the scenery is a combination of natural treasures (oak trees and shrubbery where truffles are found) and human constructions. Crops growing on terraced slopes, ancient stonewalled herding paths, stone farmhouses, chapels and sanctuaries comprise a landscape viewed from on high by soaring vultures and eagles. There are numerous sanctuaries and chapels: Vallivana (Morella), Sant Cristòfol, Mare de Déu de la Font and Sant Pere (Castellfort), Mare de Déu de la Balma (Zorita del Maestrazgo), Virgen de la Naranja (Olocau del Rey), etc. All of these are worth a visit, as they command panoramic views and have interesting sights to see. Signposted footpaths and hiking routes provide a good way to see this district, containing some of the finest mountain scenery in the northernmost section of the Land of Valencia.

El macizo del Penyagalosa

This is a tall and well-preserved mountain spur of the Iberian range in inland Spain. The Penyagolosa peak rises to 1,813m, providing a magnificent panorama over the surrounding province. The sanctuary of Sant Joan de Penyagolosa, an important site for annual pilgrimages, and extensive forests containing wild pine, black pine, faginea-type Lusitanian oak and others, all create rich scenery that visitors can enjoy. Access to the mountain is through the picturesque villages of Villahermosa del Río, Vistabella del Maestrazo and Xodos. This mountain peak is connected to the coast via the Long-Distance Hiking Route GR-33 leading down to Castellón de la Plana.