Roman roads, a Calvario with 14 chapels and an easy walking trail along the Río Vilanova offer different highlights around Vilanova D`Alcolea. For planning, it helps to distinguish the archaeological and religious heritage from the nature and craft themes: that way, you can see which discoveries interest you most.

Roman Roads and Finds

L’Hostalot-Ildum is considered one of the official Roman postal stations in the imperial communications system. The archaeological site is located on the CV-10, at the junction where the CV-145 begins as the access road to Vilanova D`Alcolea. Check the road conditions before setting out.

The section of the Vía Augusta that runs through Vilanova D`Alcolea offers another perspective on Roman history. This road connected Gades, present-day Cádiz, with Rome. While L’Hostalot-Ildum is classified as a postal station, the Vía Augusta is notable for linking its two endpoints. A milestone from the Hostalot area is on public display in the lower part of the town hall. Check whether access is possible on site before visiting.

Church, Calvario and Llata Craft

The Church of Sant Bertomeu was built in the 17th century on the site of the former castle. It preserves a 16th-century chalice. The chalice is therefore older than the church building where it is kept today—a concrete glimpse of two different periods in the religious heritage.

The Calvario comprises 14 chapels and was built between the 17th and 18th centuries at the initiative of the Franciscans. Medieval wall remains have also been preserved in the municipality of Vilanova D`Alcolea. These remains are therefore a testament to the municipality, not necessarily to the built-up town center.

Llata craft is also part of the local cultural heritage. Llata is woven dwarf palm; the municipality has many items made from it, including baskets, carriers, fans and rugs. Llata workshops for children and older people are organized regularly. The specific activities may vary depending on the program. If you are interested in the craft technique, these workshops can be a fitting complement to the architecture and history themes.

Nature, Landscape and a Walking Trail

The Paratge Natural de l’Assut has been a wildlife reserve since 2015 and is home to amphibian species that are unique in Europe. The Xop de l’Assut is designated as a monumental tree. At Paratge Font de Calaf, there is a natural spring, barbecue facilities and stone tables beneath black poplars. Check the condition of the facilities before visiting.

For a walk, the Ruta de les Senies follows the banks of the Río Vilanova and passes hydraulic structures. The trail is 3.79 kilometers long and rated easy. As trail conditions can change, it is advisable to check locally before planning your route. This makes it possible to consider the trail as a distinct highlight: its defining features are the river and the structures along the way, not the area’s historic transport routes.

Discover more destinations: Fanzara, Atzeneta del Maestrat, Oropesa Del Mar, Sueras, Benasal, Catí, Alfondeguilla, Zorita Del Maestrazgo

For the broader travel overview: Castellon.