Castellón de la Plana, Spain
The 700-year Moorish invasion had a profound effect on the shaping of Spain, and nowhere more so than on the Mediterranean coast. Castellón is both a province and a city port situated 100km North of Valencia. It is on the same latitude as Mallorca. If you go a little way inland from the coastal resorts and up onto the mountain slopes you will see ancient Arab methods of irrigation still used in the fertile groves of orange, lemon, cherry and almond tree.you can smell the Valencia ‘orange blossom’
Certainly, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what makes Castellón de la Plana a destination worth dropping anchor for.
How to Get There
If you’re hailing from the UK, Europe, North America, or Australia, you’ve got a variety of travel options to reach Castellón de la Plana.
By Plane: Castellón-Costa Azahar Airport is your nearest landing spot, well-linked to major European cities. A quick taxi ride will land you in the city centre.
By Train: The city is well-served by Spain’s extensive rail network, making it a convenient option for travellers from within Spain or neighbouring European countries.
By Ferry: The closest port for international ferries is in Valencia, roughly an hour’s drive away.
By Coach or Bus: Various coach services offer long-distance routes to Castellón de la Plana from different parts of Europe. Once you’re in the city, local buses are a handy way to get around.
What to Do in Castellón de la Plana
History: The city is a living museum with landmarks like the El Fadrí bell tower and the Co-cathedral of Saint Mary. For art and history buffs, the Museum of Fine Arts is a must-see.
Culture: The city is a vibrant centre of Valencian culture. Keep an eye out for traditional festivals like the Magdalena Festivities, which offer a rich tapestry of local arts and traditions.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor: The coastline here is a feast for the eyes. Serradal Beach is perfect for a leisurely walk, and the surrounding area offers intriguing headlands and bays.
Entertainment: When the sun sets, the city comes alive with a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Whether it’s traditional flamenco or modern beats, Castellón de la Plana has something for everyone.
Eating Out: The city’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its culture. From traditional Valencian paella to avant-garde fusion dishes, your taste buds are in for a treat. The Mercado Central is a haven for food lovers, offering fresh produce and local treats.
Nature: If you’re looking to swap sea legs for hiking boots, the Desierto de las Palmas Natural Park is your go-to. For those willing to venture a bit further, the Columbretes Islands offer diving and snorkelling opportunities.
Unique Features: What sets Castellón de la Plana apart is its harmonious blend of history, natural beauty, and a bustling cultural scene. It’s a place where you can enjoy a rich historical tour in the morning, a nature hike in the afternoon, and a lively night out, all without skipping a beat.
Barcelona
Worthwhile Journeys
You are going to be spending some time in the ports you embark and disembark from. These aren’t just logistical points; they’re opportunities for further enrichment. Take an extra day to discover what’s beyond the harbour. It’s not merely about filling time; it’s about making the entire journey worthwhile.
What to Do in Barcelona
History
From the Gothic Quarter to the intricate details of Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia, Barcelona wears its history with pride. Make it a point to visit the Picasso Museum and explore the Montjuic Castle for a view steeped in history as well as scenery.
Culture
Between the distinct Catalan traditions, contemporary art scenes, and the annual La Mercè festival, Barcelona’s culture is as vibrant as its colourful architecture. Flamenco shows? A must-see. Even if you’re not usually one for a dance and a song, the passion here might just change your mind.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor
To the sailor’s eye, the coastline offers more than just a picturesque view. The nearby Garraf Coast with its chalky cliffs, or the Costa Brava up north, tell tales of maritime lore and present-day adventure. While Barcelona doesn’t have lighthouses steeped in legend, the surrounding rugged coastline offers enough drama for any sea tale.
Entertainment
Barcelona is a city that never sleeps. From the bustling Las Ramblas to the trendy bars in the Gothic Quarter, there’s something for every stripe of night owl. Jazz clubs and beachfront bars give a good account of the city’s diverse music scene.
Eating Out
Expect an array of culinary delights from tapas bars to Michelin-starred establishments. For those with sea legs who prefer sea food, there’s no shortage of that either. And don’t even think of leaving without trying a traditional paella.
Nature
The Montserrat Mountain is a quick train ride away and offers hiking and a monastery perched high in the hills. Closer to town, the city beaches offer a less rustic kind of natural beauty.
Unique Features
Gaudí’s architecture sets Barcelona apart. A leisurely stroll in Park Güell feels like walking through a whimsical daydream.
Accommodation
Consider staying at the iconic W Barcelona or the charming Hotel Neri in the Gothic Quarter. For a relaxing experience, the Majestic Hotel & Spa offers wellness services to rejuvenate you for your next sailing adventure.
Official Tourist Website
For the most comprehensive information, visit the [Barcelona Tourist Office](https://www.barcelonaturisme.com/).
Sea and Beyond: A Responsible Mariner’s Guide
Since you’re already investing in a unique sailing adventure, why not extend that spirit to your travel choices? Opt for more sustainable methods of transport where possible like trains, coaches or sharing a car. If you fly, and we realise this may well be the case, you could research some ways to offset the carbon created by the flight.
How to Get There
UK
Direct flights from major UK airports make Barcelona easily accessible. Alternatively, you can opt for a train journey that will take you through France, with a chance to catch the scenery en route.
Europe
Barcelona is well-connected by train to various European cities like Paris, Lyon, and Zurich. Buses and coaches also provide a budget-friendly option.
North America
Several airlines operate direct flights from major cities such as New York and Toronto to Barcelona.
Australia
Though there are no direct flights, several one-stop options are available, most commonly via cities like Doha or Dubai.
Special Interests
If you have a special interest that you would like to find out about for this port or to tell us about, we would love to hear from you.
