The Way of El Cid in the Region of Valencia

The Camino del Cid, the Way of El Cid, is much more than a trek; it’s a journey through time, which traverses natural landscapes of breathtaking beauty and villages that seem to have stood still for centuries. Following the routes, sieges, hideouts and conquests linked to El Cid in the Region of Valencia, it brings together trails packed with history and places well worth stopping for.

Here are a few pointers on what you’ll be able to see and do along this legendary route.

Where does the Way of El Cid start and finish? 

This cultural and tourist route begins in Vivar del Cid, in Burgos, and ends in the Region of Valencia, specifically in Orihuela. Along the way, it follows paths and roads that wind through eight provinces, with Castellón, Valencia and Alicante playing a key role in the story, as this is where El Cid reached the height of his historical and literary fame. 

Routes and stages of the Way of El Cid in the Region of Valencia 

The Way of El Cid is divided into themed routes, which means you can easily adapt the journey to the amount of time you have. In the Region of Valencia, several main sections stand out: 

• Morella Circular Route: a fascinating route centred around Olocau del Rey, where El Cid rebuilt his camp. From there, you’ll reach the foot of Morella and pass through the setting of epic battles, as well as places such as Todolella, Forcall, Cinctorres and Portell de Morella. And, all the while, the scenery is sure to win you over. 

• Maestrazgo Circular Route: this route takes you through the monuments and landscapes of Villafranca del Cid, Benassal, Culla, La Torre d’en Besora, Atzeneta del Maestrat, Les Useres, Costur and Onda, among many others. 

• Castellón Route: Almenara, which was besieged for three months by El Cid’s troops, along with La Llosa, Chilches and Nules, still preserves archaeological sites linked to his exploits. 

• The Conquest of Valencia: this Way of El Cid route through Castellón and Valencia follows the Palancia river valley. Along the way, Jérica, Segorbe and ancient Sagunto are essential stops before you finally reach the city of València, the Campeador’s ultimate goal. 

• Olocau Branch Route: El Puig de Santa Maria, Puçol, Serra and Olocau were the setting for a military route that ended with the capture of Castillo del Real de Olocau.

• The Defence of the South: centred on the historical events of El Cid’s second exile, this route heads south from València, taking in gems such as Xàtiva and beautiful Bocairent before tracing the Way of El Cid into Alicante, with stops in Elche and its palm grove. 

Tips for your trip: the salvoconducto 

To make the most of the experience, we’d recommend getting hold of the Way of El Cid salvoconducto. This free travel credential can be stamped at more than 500 locations along the route, including in Tourist Information Offices. 

By bike, on foot or by car 

Cycling the Way of El Cid is one of the most popular ways to tackle the route, particularly on sections such as the Maestrazgo Circular Route. While the terrain between Teruel and Castellón can be demanding, the medieval landscapes more than make up for the effort.

If you’d rather take things at a slower pace, exploring the Way of El Cid by car along quiet back roads gives you the chance to enjoy the local gastronomy, from coastal rice dishes to hearty inland cooking. However you choose to travel, get ready to discover castles, soak up the light of the Region of Valencia and experience the Mediterranean at its most authentic. The Way of El Cid is waiting for you!