Discover Xilxes: Beaches, Wetlands and Culture

Playa Les Cases is a shallow cove protected by a breakwater and suitable for swimming with children. This beach is also home to a signposted and enclosed plant micro-reserve containing sea lilies and Silene Cambedesii.

Coast and Wetlands

Playa La Marina stretches for approximately one kilometre. Its landscape consists of dunes, reed beds and heathland; the beach usually has low visitor numbers. Access to Playa El Cerezo has been adapted for visitors with different mobility needs, and it can also be reached by interurban bus. Playa El Cerezo includes a wetland protected for its ecological value.

The coastal dunes of Xilxes are home to distinctive flora. The protected rice fields and marshes provide refuge for resident and breeding waterfowl. Marjal de Xilxes forms part of a coastal wetland complex that extends for several kilometres along the coast of the province of Castellón. Hiking, cycling, birdwatching and nature photography are possible in this area.

Trails and Nature Observation

The Ruta dels Sentits de Xilxes is a 5.91-kilometre circular route connecting Les Cases and El Cerezo beaches; its stated duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes. At the Vestigios bélicos of Xilxes, a short circular route leads through the mountain area. The route is signposted and equipped with installed explanatory panels.

A self-guided birdwatching trail in Xilxes allows the public to observe birds at strategic locations in different habitats and with numerous bird species. The various types of route range from a defined circular route between two beaches to nature-focused observation points.

Culture and History

From 1916, Font de la Unió was the first spring in Xilxes to supply residents with drinking water. The residents built it through financial contributions, their own labour and the use of their draught animals. The Antiguo lavadero municipal dates from 1924 and was used for washing clothes before drinking water was introduced into local homes.

Ermita del Santísimo Cristo de la Junquera was rebuilt in 2000 at the place where the image of Christ was found on 18 January 1625. A Romería takes place on the Sunday close to 18 January, leading from the parish church of Xilxes to this ermita. Iglesia Parroquial de la Asunción de Nuestra Señora was built at the end of the 17th century and combines Baroque and Neoclassical stylistic features. It houses the altar of Santísimo Cristo de la Junquera, the town’s patron saint.

The Necrópolis Cristiana de Xilxes comprises medieval cemetery remains dating from the 13th to the 18th century. Six disc-shaped funerary stelae can be seen in a glazed area. The necropolis also contains three significant coin assemblages and burial objects such as rosaries, medals and crucifixes.

More Destinations

Forcall, Portell De Morella, Sant Mateu, Peníscola, La Pobla De Benifassà, Benasal, Sant Joan de Moró, Chóvar

For the overarching travel overview: Castellon.