In this article: Alcañiz – Castle, Plains and the Vía Verde
From afar, the mighty castle-monastery of Alcañiz rises above the wide landscapes of Aragón. Narrow, winding streets lead up the hill until you reach the Parador, set within the historic complex of fortress and monastery. From the rooms, you enjoy a sweeping view across the plains of Aragón — a panorama that shifts with every change of light.
In the early morning, griffon vultures ride the first warm updrafts, circling around the keep. As the sunlight unfolds, more and more details of the surrounding landscape come into view: the Guadalope River, curving around the town, its bubbling weirs crossed by small bridges; and the neatly arranged fields around the scattered farmhouses.
In the morning hours, the city has a lively soundscape, while at night Alcañiz sinks into an almost complete silence. The narrow streets glow softly under the streetlights, and some shop windows still display the traditional regional costumes.
A special feature of the town is the Vía Verde del Val de Zafán — a former railway line turned into a cycling route. Riding through the many tunnels is part of the adventure. One tunnel even activates its lighting with motion sensors, switching on section by section as you pass through — a small technological theatre set in nature.
