The Val de Zafán Greenway: Cycling and nature in the Matarraña

The arrival of spring invites you to enjoy the outdoors and discover the territory at a leisurely pace. In our region, the undisputed benchmark for lovers of gentle sports and Mediterranean landscapes is the Val de Zafán Greenway.

This route, which crosses natural landscapes of great value, has established itself as an attraction for national and international visitors. At Fincas Matarraña we know that the quality of life in a region is measured by the environment it offers its inhabitants. This route is the perfect example of how history and nature come together to create a unique experience, also connecting some of the most beautiful towns in Teruel.

The old railway line: History and landscape

What is today a peaceful path was, for decades, a titanic infrastructure project. The old railway line was originally designed to connect Puebla de Híjar with the port of Sant Carles de la Ràpita, crossing the Bajo Aragón, the Matarraña, and the Tierras del Ebro.

The train stopped running in 1973, but years later, the tracks were dismantled and the surface conditioned. Today it has been transformed into one of the most spectacular green routes in Spain, allowing walkers and cyclists to enter areas of the region that would otherwise be inaccessible.

Cycle tourism in Teruel: A route for all ages

Practicing cycle tourism in Teruel finds its ideal setting in the Matarraña. The section that forms the backbone of our region stands out for its gentle slope, making it one of the best options if you are looking for plans with children in the Matarraña.

Along the Val de Zafán cycling route, the landscape intersperses extensive pine forests with traditional Mediterranean crop fields. It is a real pleasure to pedal surrounded by centenary olive and almond trees, offering a visual picture that changes with each season of the year. For the more adventurous who wish to plan their route in detail, there are excellent detailed tracks on Wikiloc.

Monumental viaducts and illuminated tunnels

One of the aspects that most surprises those who travel the Matarraña Greenway is its impressive civil engineering. To overcome the steep orography of the terrain, majestic stone viaducts were built crossing rivers and ravines.

Likewise, the route goes through numerous tunnels. Some are short, but others, such as the Equinox tunnel in Valjunquera, exceed two kilometers. Many of them have an automatic lighting system that activates as cyclists pass, adding a touch of mystery and fun that families love.
 

Active tourism in Aragon and quality of life

The promotion of active tourism in Aragon has positioned the Matarraña region on the radar of many Europeans and residents of large cities looking for a radical change in lifestyle. Enjoying outdoor activities on weekends, having immediate access to safe routes, and breathing pure air are determining factors when choosing a place to live or establish a second home.

More and more people, after traveling this route by bike and discovering the charm of its landscapes, decide to take the definitive step. At Fincas Matarraña we are at your disposal to help you find that home that allows you to enjoy this paradise every day of the year. Contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many kilometers is the Val de Zafán Greenway in the Matarraña section?
The section that runs strictly through the Matarraña region is approximately 30 kilometers long, starting near Valjunquera and ending in Lledó, right on the border with Catalonia. However, the complete route continues towards the Ebro Delta and the Bajo Aragón.

2. Is the Greenway suitable for children?
Absolutely. Being an old railway platform, it has no steep slopes (the maximum gradient barely exceeds 2%). The surface is conditioned, making it perfect for children's bicycles, adapted strollers, and family walks.

3. Do I need to bring a flashlight for the Greenway tunnels?
Although the longest tunnels usually have motion-sensor lighting, it is highly recommended to carry headlights or spotlights on your bike. Sometimes the system can fail, or the darkness can be imposing for the little ones.

4. Can you rent a bike in the Matarraña towns?
Yes, the boom in cycle tourism has driven the creation of several local active tourism companies. In towns in the area, you can rent touring bikes, mountain bikes, and even electric bikes, as well as hire pick-up or transfer services with vans.

Your new life begins in the Matarraña.