Hotels in Peñíscola

Walled Old Town

The old village covers the rocky headland that juts into the sea, crowned by the castle of Papa Luna. Inside the walls are cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, the Bufador blowhole and viewpoints over the Mediterranean. Beds are few and mostly in small houses, but the reward is strolling in the evening once the groups have left. Bear in mind the slopes, and that cars are left below.

Best-rated in this area: Hotel & Spa Castillo de Peñíscola 4* Sup, with a score of 9.1 from 2,861 reviews.

Near end of North Beach

North Beach is a long strip of sand with a promenade that starts at the foot of the headland. Its first stretch, closest to the castle, has restaurants, ice-cream parlours and shops, and lets you walk to the old town along the shore. It is what families look for when they want sand, beach bars and an evening stroll without using the car. In high season this stretch gets crowded, and the atmosphere goes on late.

Far end of North Beach

As you head towards Benicarló, the promenade carries on beside the sea and the buildings give way to apartments and developments with pools. There is less bustle and more room on the sand. The castle is a long walk away, which many people do by bike along the coastal cycle lane. It suits long beach stays, with supermarkets and restaurants spread along the promenade.

South Beach and the Sierra de Irta

On the other side of the headland, by the fishing port, South Beach is smaller and more sheltered, with the fish market and seafood bars next to it. To the south begins the Sierra de Irta Natural Park, with coves, footpaths and an undeveloped coastline. The developments here appeal to those who want nature and peace and have a car to get down to the town.