Peñíscola combines a distinctive history with coastal and nature experiences. The castle, beaches such as Playa Norte, and the protected landscape of Serra d’Irta offer different options for your stay. Which ones you focus on depends on whether you’re mainly looking for historic buildings, time by the sea or trails through nature.
Castle and Local History
Castillo de Peñíscola was built in the 13th century by the Knights Templar. In the 15th century, during his exile, it became the residence of Pope Benedict XIII, known as Papa Luna. A free audio guide is available to download for a self-guided visit; check availability in advance.
The other buildings also tell the story of different periods in the town’s history. Portal de Sant Pere was built in 1411 at the behest of Benedict XIII as a new entrance from the sea to the fortified town, and bears Papa Luna’s coat of arms. Portal Fosc was the fortress’s only land entrance until the 18th century. The ramp leading to it is bordered by a Renaissance city wall, built in the last quarter of the 16th century.
Església parroquial de Santa Maria dates back to the 13th century. Its Romanesque portal remained part of its history, even though the church was rebuilt after a fire in the mid-14th century. In the old town, Capella de Santa Anna is one of the most striking chapels; a mass in honour of Saint Anne is held there every year on 26 July. Casa de las Conchas offers another glimpse of local history: its façade is completely covered in shells and is considered a worthwhile stop. The current building of Faro de Peñíscola dates from 1892; its light reaches 35 miles (65 km).
Coast and Rock Formations
Playa Norte is five kilometres long and has fine, golden sand; from there, you can enjoy views of Castillo del Papa Luna. Playa Norte also has a long seafront promenade with numerous restaurants and a tourist train. As such services may change, check in advance whether the train is running. Sailing, diving, windsurfing and canoeing are available at Playa Sur. If you’re planning one of these activities, check current availability.
A very different coastal feature is the Bufador: a natural tunnel in the rock on which the town of Peñíscola stands, connecting with the sea. Peñíscola thus highlights both its open beaches and the geological formation of its rock.
Nature Park and Wetland
Parque Natural de la Sierra de Irta covers 7,743 hectares of protected landscape and a 12-kilometre stretch of undeveloped coastline. Serra d’Irta extends for 15 kilometres along Peñíscola’s southern coast and encompasses 16 natural coves. At Pic Campanilles, it reaches an elevation of 572 metres. Cliffs, coves and a rich marine ecosystem define this landscape; the ecosystem is protected largely by the marine reserve.
Marjal de Peñíscola offers another kind of natural environment. The publicly accessible wetland can be explored via wooden walkways and is one of the last protected areas for the aquatic species Samaruc and Fartet. In Parque de Artillería, meanwhile, a former military site is now a botanical garden. Palms, olive trees, lavender and native plants from Parque Natural de la Sierra de Irta grow there; the garden also offers views of the Mediterranean and the fortress walls.
Trails and Other Experiences
Parque Natural de la Sierra de Irta has five circular hiking trails. Several hiking trails through the nature park also start at Torre de Badum. If you’d rather explore by bike, you’ll find cycling routes there for beginners and experienced cyclists. Route conditions may change. In the protected area, use marked trails and park in designated areas.
Torre de Badum has been recognised as a Bien de Interés Cultural since 1985. Culture and local themes also come together in Peñíscola de Cine, a tourism offering that combines filming locations with local products for a distinctive visitor experience. Choose what to see based on the interests that will shape your stay.
Discover more destinations: Nules, Casablanca, Artana, Sant Joan de Moró, Altura, Jérica, Castell De Cabres, Sant Jordi.
Back to the main travel overview: Castellon.
