Into the Mountains: Barcelona to Forcall
Leaving the bustling streets of Barcelona behind, we head inland towards the mountainous region of Els Ports. The landscape shifts dramatically within just a couple of hours — from coastal plains to rugged limestone peaks and deep river valleys. Forcall, a tiny medieval village in the province of Castellón, is our destination for today.
The ride through the Maestrazgo region is one of the highlights of this entire trip. The roads twist and turn through gorges, offering sweeping views of terraced hillsides dotted with almond and olive trees. Forcall itself sits at the confluence of three rivers and feels completely untouched by time — stone buildings, narrow lanes, and a beautiful porticoed main square.
Route Highlights
- Riding through the Maestrazgo mountain region — some of Spain’s best biking roads
- The dramatic transition from coastal Catalonia to the rugged interior
- Forcall’s medieval Plaza Mayor with its stone arcades
- Quiet mountain roads with almost no traffic
Travel Tips
The roads to Forcall are narrow and winding — perfect for motorbikes but take it easy, especially on blind corners. There are few petrol stations in this area, so fill up before leaving the main highway. Accommodation in Forcall is limited to a few small guesthouses, so book ahead during summer. The local cuisine is hearty mountain food — try the migas and local cured meats.
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