Cycling the Val de Zafán Greenway: An 8-day route to the Ebro Delta

Cycling the Val de Zafán Greenway: From the Rugged Inland to the Ebro Delta (and the Sea)

Are you looking for a cycling vacation in Spain that feels like slow travel—without heavy traffic, surrounded by nature, and with plenty of “wow, this really exists” moments? Then the Vía Verde Val de Zafán is a route you’ll want to add to your list. You’ll cycle along an old railroad line (now a green cycling route) past tunnels, viaducts, and bridges, descend to the Ebro River near Tortosa, and finish among the wetlands and rice paddies of the Ebro Delta—with the Mediterranean Sea just a stone’s throw away.

You can do this trip on your own or through our local specialist, who will handle all the logistics for you (including lodging, trails, luggage transport, and bike rentals). Go to “Request a quote.”

Val de Zafán Greenway - Peñíscola - Castle

In brief

  • Duration: 8 days / 7 nights (6 stages)
  • Distance: approx. 260 km
  • Level: intermediate
  • Elevation gain: approx. +1,150 m
  • Type of trip: individual/self-guided; you arrange your own travel to the destination

What is a Vía Verde?
In Spain, these are former railroad lines that have been converted into (mostly) traffic-free cycling and hiking trails. Ideal for a leisurely bike ride.

Why this route is so great for cycling

  • Cycling with little traffic: many sections along Vías Verdes and quiet trails
  • Variety: mountains, river, delta, and coast
  • Nature Experience: The Ebro Delta is a premier destination for birds and wetlands
  • Culture on the Road: Tortosa and, above all, Peñíscola (the castle by the sea)
  • A wonderful route for Slow travel

8-Day Itinerary (6 Stages)

Day 1: Arrival in Valdealgorfa: a leisurely start

The route starts in Valdealgorfa. You can be picked up in Castellón or Valencia (for a fee). Briefing, route information, bike/equipment rental if needed; and most importantly: landing.

Sustainability tip: If you don’t want to fly, Valencia is often easy to combine with a train and a local transfer.

Day 2: Stage 1: Valdealgorfa – Horta de Sant Joan

Approx. 39.5 km | 402 m

You’ll start in the countryside and immediately get into that typical “old railroad line” rhythm: gentle slopes, sweeping views, and the occasional tunnel that makes you smile. Horta de Sant Joan is a great place to spend the night and enjoy a local meal.

Learn more about our other bike tours and tips.

Day 3: Stage 2: Horta de Sant Joan – Tortosa

Approx. 48.9 km | 155 m

Today’s route offers plenty of variety: hills, tunnels, viaducts, and water. You’ll end up in Tortosa on the Ebro River. Be sure to take some time to explore the old town and visit a lookout point along the river.

Read about our green city trip to Valencia

Val de Zafán Greenway - Tortosa - Food Market

Day 4: Stage 3: Tortosa – Ebro Delta

Approx. 29 km | 20 m

You follow the river southward. The landscape becomes flatter and quieter. And then suddenly: reeds, canals, and rice paddies. The Ebro Delta feels like a completely different world. Perfect for slowing down.

Day 5: Stage 4: Ebro Delta – Vinaròs / Benicarló

Approx. 46 km | 128 m

From wetlands to a coastal vibe. Along the way, agricultural landscapes alternate with ocean views. In Vinaròs or Benicarló, you can enjoy a refreshing walk by the sea.

Cycling on the Vía Verde Val de Zafán - View Route

Day 6: Stage 5: Vinaròs/Benicarló – via Peñíscola – Alcossebre

Approx. 37 km | 256 m

Peñíscola is the main attraction: a castle perched on a rock, connected to the mainland. It’s not really the kind of place you want to visit “just quickly.” Be sure to set aside time to wander around and visit the castle. Afterward, cycle on to Alcossebre.

Read more here about the most beautiful routes in Tuscany—a different kind of slow travel experience.

Day 7: Stage 6: Alcossebre/Peñíscola – Benicàssim / Grao de Castellón

Approx. 50 km | 103 m

Coastal cruising. Many stretches are flat and easygoing. Ideal for swimming breaks or a picnic with a view. Arrival in Grao de Castellón: marina, restaurants, final evening.

Day 8: Castellón de la Plana & Departure

Take in a little culture, pick up some souvenirs, or just enjoy a quiet cup of coffee. And then head back home.

Highlights

  • Val de Zafán Greenway: tunnels, viaducts, bridges
  • Ebro Delta: wetlands, rice paddies, birds
  • Tortosa on the Ebro River
  • Peñíscola: A Castle by the Sea
  • A Cycling Vacation That Combines Mountains and the Sea
  • Several nature parks along the way

Organized with a local specialist

You can take this bike tour as part of an organized trip with our local specialist. You’ll need to arrange your own travel to the destination.

Prices based on a double room

  • €836 per person (March, April, May, July)
  • €946 per person (June, September, and October)

Included:

  • 7 nights in a double room with breakfast
  • Accident Insurance
  • GPS tracks and briefing
  • luggage transport between hotels
  • transfers
  • Daily follow-up via WhatsApp
  • Repair Kit
  • Helmets
  • 24/7 phone support

Optional / not included:

  • Transfer from Castellón/Valencia to Valdeagorfa (€324.50)
  • E-bike rental: €231 per bike
  • Trekking bike: €154 per bike
  • Bike bag: €33 per bike
  • Dinner: €24.30 per day
  • 5% discount for a third person (over 12 years old) sharing the same room
  • Single room supplement: €38.50 / €44 (June, September, October) per night
  • Additional nights available upon request
  • Solo traveler supplement: €165
  • Mechanical assistance, depending on the location: €0.75/km + €25 for the mechanic

Overnight Stays

You’ll stay in 3- or 4-star hotels, depending on availability. Here are a few examples:

  • Hotel Silken Turcosa***
  • Hotel Parador de Benicarló****
  • Apart. Azahar Beach****
  • Hotel SB Corona***
  • Gran Hotel Peñiscola****

You book direct

Request a quote for the 8-Day Vía Verde Val de Zafán Cycling Tour

When you request a quote, we’ll forward it to our local partner, who will confirm it directly with you if approved. You’ll pay the same price as if you were booking directly. You’ll handle the rest of the booking and payment directly with the local provider (with whom we have a good working relationship and established agreements). We’re always available to answer any questions you may have.

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Sustainable & practical: how to keep the lights on

  • Bring a reusable bottle and snacks from local markets
  • Stay on the trails in the delta (breeding grounds are sensitive)
  • Avoid single-use plastic (picnic set, cutlery, zip-top bag)
  • Whenever possible, choose small-scale accommodations

FAQ: Via Verde Val de Zafán

Is the Vía Verde Val de Zafán suitable for average cyclists?
Yes. With about 260 km spread over 6 stages and roughly 1,150 meters of elevation gain, this is doable with a normal level of fitness. An e-bike makes it even more relaxed.

When is the best time to bike this route?
Spring and fall are often the most pleasant in terms of temperature and enjoying nature. In the summer: start early and bring plenty of water.

Is the route free of traffic?
Large sections of the route follow Vías Verdes and quiet trails. Occasionally, there are connecting sections where you’ll need to watch out for traffic.

Can I arrange for luggage transport?
Yes, luggage transport is arranged for the self-guided tour, so you’ll be cycling with only your day pack.

Cycling along the Vía Verde Val de Zafán on the map

Madelon Seignette - author

About the author

Madelon Seignette

With a passion for travel and photography and over 30 years of experience in the travel industry, I love to share my special nature travel tips. Travel is wonderful and important, you meet new people and cultures and it opens your view of the world.

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