Vía Verde del Mar
A scenic coastal path on an old railway line connecting Oropesa and Benicàssim, offering stunning sea views, coves, and tunnels.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Vía Verde del Mar
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic coastal path on an old railway line connecting Oropesa and Benicàssim, offering stunning sea views, coves, and tunnels.
"A beautiful traffic-free cycle path and we had a lovely ride."
☀️ Beat the Heat
Avoid June's extreme heat; opt for cooler months like April for a comfortable walk. :sunwithface:
🚲 Bike or Walk?
Great for cycling, but be mindful of cyclists. Some path sections are gravel. :bicycle:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Coastal Views
Along the entire route
Stunning Mediterranean vistas, hidden coves, and dramatic cliffside viewpoints await.
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Historic Tunnels
Along the route
Explore old railway tunnels, adding an element of adventure to your journey.
Family-Friendly Trail
Oropesa to Benicàssim
An accessible, traffic-free path perfect for walks or bike rides with children and pets.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Prepare for the Path
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Beat the Heat
Avoid June's extreme heat; opt for cooler months like April for a comfortable walk. :sunwithface:
🚲 Bike or Walk?
Great for cycling, but be mindful of cyclists. Some path sections are gravel. :bicycle:
🔦 Tunnel Caution
The long tunnels can be very dark; bring a light source for safety. :flashlight:
🌊 Access to Coves
Look for spots to venture onto rocks for closer sea access. :ocean:
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Beat the Heat
Avoid June's extreme heat; opt for cooler months like April for a comfortable walk. :sunwithface:
🚲 Bike or Walk?
Great for cycling, but be mindful of cyclists. Some path sections are gravel. :bicycle:
🔦 Tunnel Caution
The long tunnels can be very dark; bring a light source for safety. :flashlight:
🌊 Access to Coves
Look for spots to venture onto rocks for closer sea access. :ocean:
📸 Lighthouse Views
Many people climb hills for lighthouse views. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Vía Verde del Mar for its stunning coastal scenery and accessibility, making it a perfect spot for family outings, cycling, and leisurely walks. While the path is generally well-maintained, some sections can be dark in the tunnels, and summer heat can be intense.
"Is a really nice plan to enjoy with friends, kids, pets! You're able to hike and that's cool... After that you can go to the beach and enjoy! 100% recommended!"
Angie Silva
"We tried this in June. Extremely hot, couldn’t finish the trail. This time we came out here the first week of April, slightly overcast but warm. We started around 14h, that’s when all the locals are finishing and heading to lunch. So there are less people at this time. Beautiful walk. Wish they had bicycles for rent close by. You share the path with cyclists. One side of the path is gravel the other is paved but not smooth enough. I didn’t see anyone with roller blades (patinas). There are 3 picnic benches at the beginning. There are places where you could go out on the rocks to get closer into the sea. I saw a bunch of people climbing the hill to go to the light house."
Doris L
"This is a beautiful traffic free cycle path and we had a lovely ride. Only bit we found difficult was going through the long tunnel which is very dark in some parts."
Pauline Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Vía Verde del Mar connects Oropesa del Mar and Benicàssim. You can start from either town. Parking is available near the Hotel Voramar in Benicàssim.
Local buses connect Oropesa and Benicàssim, making it easy to access the starting points of the Vía Verde. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, the Vía Verde del Mar is a popular cycling route. You can cycle to the start points from nearby towns or arrange transport for your bikes.
Free public parking is available near the Hotel Voramar in Benicàssim, a common starting point for the route.
The path is largely flat and paved, making it generally accessible. However, some gravel sections and the dark tunnels might pose challenges.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Vía Verde del Mar is a public path and does not require any tickets for entry. It's free to access and enjoy.
The Vía Verde del Mar is open 24/7, as it's an outdoor public space. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entrance fee for the Vía Verde del Mar. Access to this scenic coastal path is completely free for all visitors.
While there aren't many rental shops directly on the Vía Verde, some services might be available in Oropesa or Benicàssim. It's advisable to check in advance or bring your own.
The main restriction is to be mindful of other users, especially cyclists if you are walking, and to respect the natural environment.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Vía Verde del Mar is approximately 12 km round trip (about 6 km one way), connecting Oropesa and Benicàssim.
The route is considered very easy, with a mostly flat terrain due to its origin as a railway line. Perfect for all fitness levels.
You'll experience beautiful coastal views, dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and Mediterranean nature.
Yes, the path offers access to various coves and beaches where you can take a dip in the sea.
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, and a camera. A flashlight is recommended for the tunnels.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for viewpoints along the cliffs, the entrances to the old tunnels, and the charming coves. The Mediterranean Sea provides a stunning backdrop throughout.
Drone usage might be restricted in certain areas or require permits. It's best to check local regulations before flying.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh due to direct sunlight.
The tunnels can be very dark, so a good camera with low-light capabilities or a tripod might be helpful. Be cautious of cyclists.
While the entire route is scenic, the old railway tunnels and the dramatic coastal cliffs are particularly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection. Consider visiting in the spring or autumn to avoid the summer heat, or opt for an early morning or late afternoon walk. The 12km round trip can be broken up with stops, making it manageable for even the youngest adventurers.
🚴♀️ Cyclists
+1Be aware that some sections are gravel, and the tunnels can be dark, so ensure your bike is in good condition and you have adequate lighting. While bike rentals aren't abundant directly on the path, you can often find them in the nearby towns of Oropesa or Benicàssim.
🚶♀️ Walkers & Hikers
+1Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, especially if visiting during warmer months. The path is shared with cyclists, so be mindful of your surroundings. The chance to explore hidden coves and enjoy the sea breeze makes it a rewarding walk.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cycling the Vía Verde del Mar
+1While the path is generally well-maintained, some sections might have a gravel surface, and the old railway tunnels can be quite dark. It's advisable to have a bike with good tires and to carry a reliable light source for these darker stretches. Remember to share the path courteously with walkers and other cyclists.
For those without their own bikes, checking for rental services in Oropesa or Benicàssim beforehand is recommended, as on-route rentals are scarce. The approximately 12 km round trip offers a fantastic way to explore the coastline at your own pace.
A Family-Friendly Adventure
Along the route, families can discover small coves perfect for a picnic or a quick dip in the sea, providing natural breaks and fun for kids. The old railway tunnels add an element of excitement and mystery to the walk, sparking children's imaginations.
It's wise to plan your visit during cooler months or early mornings/late afternoons to ensure comfort, especially for younger children. Bringing plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection is essential for a pleasant family outing.
Photography Opportunities
+1Key photographic highlights include the panoramic viewpoints from the cliffs, the unique textures and shadows within the old railway tunnels, and the secluded coves accessible from the main path. The interplay of light and shadow, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, can create truly magical shots.
When capturing the tunnels, be prepared for low-light conditions; a tripod and a camera with good low-light performance can be beneficial. Remember to be aware of cyclists passing through, ensuring both your safety and theirs while you frame your shots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit