San Rafael del Río

San Rafael del Río, Castellón, is a small municipality ensconced in olive and almond trees and dry-stone structures along the River Cenia. Part of El Baix Maestrat, it is the kind of place where a walk, some fresh air and the quiet of the inland landscapes are reason enough to visit.

What to do in San Rafael del Río and its natural surroundings

If you’re looking for things to do outdoors in San Rafael del Río, the paths that follow the River Cenia are made for walking or cycling, with old watermills and riverside vegetation to discover along the way.

The Tinença de Benifassà Natural Park is also close by, making the area a useful starting point for hiking, MTB routes and nature photography.

What hiking and nature routes can you do in San Rafael del Río?

• Tossal dels Tres Reis: From San Rafael del Río, drive to the small village of Fredes, which belongs to La Pobla de Benifassà, then continue on foot to the summit for some seriously wow-worthy views across the surrounding landscape.

• If you’re travelling with children, head to the Forest of Time, beside the path that follows the River Cenia. Here you’ll find a woodland with as many trees as there are days in the year.

Heritage and tourism in San Rafael del Río

What monuments and places of interest should you see in San Rafael del Río? It may be a small municipality, but its quiet streets are well worth a wander, particularly around the San Rafael Arcángel Parish Church. You can also see traditional washhouses in the Parc de la Memòria.

Just outside the village, visit Canet Mill, one of the area’s most important hydraulic sites since the 14th century. This substantial complex beside the River Sénia has served as a flour mill, paper mill and hydroelectric power station over the centuries.

Keep an eye out too for landmarks such as Corral de Rafel and the old farmsteads scattered across a landscape shaped by centuries-old dry-stone structures, a building tradition recognised by UNESCO.

Frequently asked questions

What can you do in San Rafael del Río over a weekend?

You can combine a walk along the River Cenia with traditional food from El Baix Maestrat and time exploring the nearby Tinença de Benifassà Natural Park. Another option is to visit some of the small villages that form part of La Pobla de Benifassà, such as Fredes. And if you fancy heading to the coast, La Foradada beach in Vinaròs is also within easy reach.