The setting you choose for working out directly impacts your motivation, performance, and consistency. Few places offer a better backdrop than the beach at Benicàssim, featuring the unmistakable Mediterranean Sea in the background and fresh ocean breezes acting as a natural temperature regulator to keep your body cool. It is, without a doubt, the ultimate option for turning exercise into a lasting, enjoyable habit.
Among all the outdoor activities Castellón province has to offer, the coastal trail connecting Benicàssim and Oropesa del Mar ranks as one of the most popular. Designed specifically for walkers, runners, and cyclists, this mostly flat route runs right along the coastal cliffs.
Living at Azure El Poblado transforms daily exercise from a chore into your favorite moment of disconnection. You do not need to plan ahead or waste time commuting—simply step outside and you are immediately immersed in a prime active environment, with unique routes like the Vía Verde from Oropesa to Benicàssim and sweeping ocean views accompanying you every step of the way.
A historic railway corridor repurposed for outdoor sports
The railway origin of this coastal trail
The path that today forms the coastal trail known as the Vía Verde del Mar traces the old railway line that connected Valencia to Barcelona, originally built in the late 19th century. Constructing it required remarkable engineering to navigate the rugged terrain of the Oropesa mountain range.
Over time, train traffic was rerouted inland, leaving the original tracks disused. Years later, this historic railway line was expertly repurposed into an accessible trail for sports and leisure. The result is a truly unique hiking path that preserves carved rock walls and the original industrial heritage aesthetics of that era.
Technical route specs: distance, duration, and difficulty
Route length between both coastal towns
The primary trail spans roughly 5.5 kilometers in length, meaning a complete round trip covers just over 11 kilometers in total. As a wide, level path, walking the route at a leisurely pace takes about 60 to 70 minutes each way, while cycling cuts the journey down to roughly 20 minutes per stretch.
Furthermore, the generous width of the trail allows pedestrians and cyclists to comfortably share the path. Clear signage keeps traffic orderly, even during peak hours.
Terrain profile and main access points
The single greatest advantage of this trail is its lack of steep inclines. Because it was originally engineered for trains, elevation changes are minimal, making it an exceptionally accessible route suited to all fitness levels. The path alternates between paved sections and durable, hard-packed dirt and gravel—ideal for running, beach cruisers, or mountain bikes.
The trail features two main, well-marked entry points at either end:
- Southern access (Benicàssim): Starts right near the Voramar area and the renowned Almadraba beach, offering a very convenient starting point right from the bay.
- Northern access (Oropesa del Mar): Located in the neighboring town, right next to the Club Náutico marina and La Concha beach.
Key landmarks along the route
Illuminated tunnels and ancient watchtowers
The historic railway origin accompanies every kilometer, but the most striking section is the 500-meter-long tunnel carved straight through the mountain. It is well lit and offers a welcome, refreshing drop in temperature during the warmer summer months.
Perched on the cliffs overlooking the sea, two preserved 16th-century coastal watchtowers stand guard:
- Torre Colomera: Situated on a rocky outcrop, this tower originally served to monitor incoming ships and warn against potential pirate raids.
- Torre de la Corda: Located further along in Oropesa territory, it worked in tandem with Torre Colomera to keep watch over this stretch of coast.
Natural lookouts and La Renegà cove
The highlight of this itinerary is its constant proximity to the water. Wooden footbridges and bench areas along the trail serve as natural lookouts where you can pause and take in the visual spectacle of waves crashing against the rocks.
Roughly halfway through the journey, you will arrive at La Renegà, a collection of secluded coves sculpted by the sea and sheltered by pine groves that reach almost to the shore. Its crystal-clear waters and rocky seabed make it an ideal spot to stop for snorkeling or paddle boarding after a workout.
An ideal way to stay active right by home
Having an environment that makes daily sports so effortless is one of the biggest reasons people choose to settle on this stretch of coastline. Factor in Benicàssim’s exceptional climate—boasting mild winters and over 300 days of sunshine a year—and trading indoor gyms for fresh air and natural sunlight becomes second nature. It is simply the best setting for taking care of your health and enjoying life.
Living at Azure El Poblado places residents just minutes from this coastal corridor. After finishing a morning bike ride or a coastal walk, you can easily return to the tranquility of your villa, designed to experience the Mediterranean lifestyle and slow living in its purest form.
