Free walking tours in Peñíscola and what to see

Must-sees

Peñíscola stands on a rocky headland joined to the mainland by a strip of sand. At the top is the Templar castle, where Papa Luna, the antipope Benedict XIII, lived in the early 15th century. The visit takes in its halls, the church and the terraces overlooking the Mediterranean. Around it, the walled old town has steep white streets, the House of Shells and the Bufador, a cleft in the rock where water shoots up in stormy weather.

Outside the walls are North Beach, long and fine-sanded, and South Beach, by the fishing port. It is worth heading to the fish market when the boats come in. The old town has been a set for film and television, from El Cid to Game of Thrones. To the south begins the Serra d’Irta, a natural park with coves and footpaths by the sea.

Free tours and guided visits

Pay-what-you-wish free tours of the old town run mainly in high season. They usually follow the walls and main streets and tell the stories of Papa Luna and the filming. The castle can be visited with a guide, which is worthwhile as it helps you understand its Templar history. Other options include boat trips around the headland, guided walks in the Serra d’Irta and excursions to Morella, inland.

How long to spend

Half a day, about three or four hours, is enough for the castle and the old town. With a full day you can add a walk along North Beach and a look round the port. If you want to hike in the Serra d’Irta or visit Morella, allow two or three days. In summer, go up to the castle first thing or late in the afternoon, when it is cooler.

Where to stay

The most practical choice is to stay on North Beach near the old town, so you can walk to the castle and have the beach in front of you. There are few places to stay inside the walls, but sleeping there lets you enjoy the village once the day visitors have gone. The far end of North Beach is quieter and usually has more apartments, although you will need to walk further or use the car.