Famed for its annual carnival, Vinaros is a historic seaside city in the Spanish province of Castello. It was established as a Moorish hamlet in the 13th century before coming under the Knights Templar rule and it developed into an important shipbuilding hub in the 16th century. Today, fishing dominates the local economy, with Vinaros’ prawns particularly sought after.
Things to do in Vinaròs
Stroll through the heart of Vinaros to admire the fortress-like Church of the Assumption of Our Lady, which was built in the 16th century in a Renaissance style. Stop by the Torre Ballester, a Romanesque-inspired tower built on the site of medieval fortifications. Be sure to soak up the sights, sounds and smells of the Municipal Market, which occupies an elegant cast-iron building.
Extending north of the port is Platja del Forti, a palm-lined stretch of sand where you can swim and sunbathe in the warmer months. It’s a popular setting for a variety of water sports and is backed by restaurants serving Mediterranean-inspired fare. Large-scale sculptural artworks dot the beachfront Passeig de Colom.
History buffs can travel inland to visit the Poblado Ibero Puig de la Nau, which preserves the site of an Iberian mountain village. Excavations suggest the site was inhabited from the end of the Bronze Age, with the Phoenicians, Punics and Greeks all leaving their mark. Wander between the remains of the houses, defensive walls and towers, all of which are beautifully preserved.
Getting around Vinaròs
Vinaros is just over an hour’s drive from Tarragona and 1.5 hours from Valencia. Valencia Airport is just under two hours away and has flights to destinations across Europe and North Africa. Regular trains connect to the Vinaros railway station, which is around five minutes by taxi from the city centre.