Nestled amidst Spain, sandwiched between Barcelona and Valencia, is an historic town boasting breathtaking coastal vistas.
**Exploring Peñíscola: An Underrated Mediterranean Gem**
Peñíscola, a historic coastal town in Spain, is a hidden gem nestled between Barcelona and Valencia. This charming destination offers a unique blend of medieval charm, stunning beaches, and vibrant local culture, making it an ideal choice for travellers seeking an authentic Mediterranean experience.
### **Historic Castle and Old Town**
The town's pièce de résistance is the iconic Peñíscola Castle, originally built by the Knights Templar between 1294 and 1307. This fortress, which served as a refuge for "Papa Luna," the Antipope Benedict XIII, has played a significant role in history. Visitors can explore the castle's rooms, chapel, dungeon, and wine cellar, providing a glimpse into its rich past[1][2].
Peñíscola's medieval old quarter retains a strong sense of identity rooted in its time as a Papal stronghold and military fortress. The streets are mostly pedestrian-only and offer small boutiques, cozy tapas bars, and hidden plazas, giving visitors the feeling of being on a Greek island, with white-washed buildings trimmed in blue[1][3].
### **Game of Thrones Connection**
For fans of the popular series Game of Thrones, Peñíscola may hold a special allure. The castle was used as a location in the series, where it was depicted as the city of Meereen[2].
### **Beaches and Natural Beauty**
Peñíscola offers beautiful, family-friendly beaches. Playa Norte, a lively and family-friendly stretch, is a wide, sandy beach with a vibrant promenade. Playa Sur, on the other hand, offers a more laid-back experience[1].
The Serra d'Irta Natural Park, located south of Peñíscola, offers a wide range of hiking and biking trails, as well as secluded swimming opportunities[1].
### **Local Culture and Cuisine**
The town's restaurants offer a menu del dia (value fixed-price midday menus)[2]. Visitors can enjoy local tapas and traditional Spanish dishes in the town's cozy restaurants.
One of Peñíscola's most iconic photo ops is the ornate Casa de las Conchas, a small home decorated in shells[3].
### **Tours and Activities**
Options for exploring Peñíscola include guided tours, such as a day trip from Valencia with a focus on Game of Thrones locations, and a combined tour of Peñíscola and the Ebro Delta[3]. Visitors can also visit the Magic Museum by Yunke, explore historic sites, and take part in Ports of Call Tours for a comprehensive experience of the town[4].
Visitors coming from Barcelona will take a train from Barcelona Sants to Benicarlo-Peniscola Station. Those visiting off-season should note that the bus system only functions during summer, so taxis may be necessary for transportation[1].
Peñíscola's hotels cater to various preferences. Joanna Hotel is a convenient boutique hotel offering stylish rooms, dining, and easy beach access. For a more pampered stay, Rh Don Carlos & Spa might be a better choice. Hotel Boutique La Mar offers castle and beach views in a more modern setting[1][2].
References: [1] Lonely Planet. (2021). Peñíscola. https://www.lonelyplanet.com/spain/valencia-region/peniscola [2] Peñíscola Tourist Board. (n.d.). Game of Thrones. https://www.peniscolaturisme.com/en/game-of-thrones [3] Rough Guides. (2021). Peniscola. https://www.roughguides.com/destinations/europe/spain/valencia/peniscola/ [4] Peñíscola Tourist Board. (n.d.). Tours and Activities. https://www.peniscolaturisme.com/en/tours-and-activities
Travelers seeking an authentic Mediterranean lifestyle with a touch of history can explore the charming town of Peñíscola, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture, sample delicious cuisine, and bask in the sun on its beautiful beaches. For fans of the popular series Game of Thrones, a visit to the iconic Peñíscola Castle, used as a location in the series, is a must-do travel activity.