The PR-CV 216 and PR-CV 217 offer two different linear hiking routes to help you plan a stay in Chiva De Morella: one runs from Morella to Xiva, the other from Xiva to Forcall. The historic sites also offer their own highlights, from the Ermita del Roser to a traditional masía.

Two linear routes, different distances

The PR-CV 216 is six kilometers long and runs from Morella to Xiva de Morella. The estimated walking time is two hours. The route passes through a small pine forest on its way to Xiva and reaches the Ermita del Roser at the source of the Xiva River.

The PR-CV 217 runs for 13 kilometers from Xiva de Morella to Forcall. It first leaves Xiva via the main road, then follows a forest track. Along the way, the route crosses the Río Bergantes on a large wooden bridge and passes through an old mill.

Both trails are linear, not circular. The PR-CV 216 has a stated walking time for a shorter distance; the PR-CV 217 covers a longer distance, but no walking time is given. Check trail conditions before setting out. River conditions may also vary on the PR-CV 217.

The Ermita del Roser and traces of history

The history of the Ermita del Roser dates back to 1242, when the original hermitage was built. The present-day hermitage and the Calvary were built between 1890 and 1895. The complex is designated a Bien de Relevancia Local (Asset of Local Relevance).

In addition to the hermitage, the Santuario de la Virgen del Roser includes the hermit's house, the Calvary and the Capelleta vella de la Virgen del Roser. These different parts of the complex offer a way to explore the site's religious history without reducing it to a single building.

The Virgen del Roser is the patron saint of Xiva. Her feast is held on the second weekend of August. Every five years, the Quinquenni is celebrated, during which the image is carried from the hermitage to Xiva. If you would like to plan a trip around this celebration, check the dates locally.

Calle Mayor also holds a historical clue to a building's former use: house number 24 was Xiva's former hospital. A plaque dated 1551 is located above the arched entrance.

A masía and old paths

Mas de Mejora retains the typical layout of a traditional masía, with a dwelling, livestock stalls and a hayloft. It is built of dry stone masonry and rammed earth. Features that have been preserved include the original wooden balcony, the double-leaf entrance door and wooden livestock fences. The masía was abandoned in the 20th century.

A small covered well lies beside the old path that linked Xiva and Morella. Its construction includes access steps and a side wall to prevent earth from sliding down; all the elements are built using traditional dry-stone techniques. Together with the masía, the well shows how this building method was used for different rural structures.

Discover more destinations: Ortells.

Go to the broader travel overview: Morella.