Queer travel expert Jack Kenworthy turns 250+ city adventures into your guide for safe, vibrant, and inclusively fabulous global journeys.
Gay Castellón is a province located in the Valencian Community, on the east coast of Spain. The province has a rich history and cultural heritage, and it is well known for its stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cities.
Castellon is beyond liberal with the LGBT. queer rights have been legalized since 1979 so trust us when we say, this gay province is a huge cruising scene.
Its culture is woven into everything here, even the air. The people here are friendly and pay no mind to sexual orientation, so feeling ‘awkward’ will not exist. The pride of this city goes way beyond its gay nightlife and cruising bar – although those are simply the best – but the beaches and landscape are stunning.
In the summer, this city becomes an even more unique gay destination. Its sands shine gold, and amazing cuisines and historic castles that hold many fascinating stories threaten to keep you here forever, but that doesn’t sound so bad.
In this article we will cover...
Top Attractions in Castellon, Spain
Castellon is rich in history and natural ambiance that will blow your mind. Being queer does not dictate whether you will see these attractions interesting but be rest assured that these picks and some of the best sights in this city are built on the east coast of Spain.
Peniscola Castle, also known as Papa Luna Castle, is a medieval fortification on a rocky promontory in the town of Peniscola, Castellón, Spain. The castle was built in the 14th century and served as the headquarters of Pope Benedict XIII, also known as Pope Luna, during his papacy from 1394 to 1423.
The castle has been beautifully preserved over the centuries and has undergone several renovations, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and architectural enthusiasts.
One of the most impressive features of the castle is its location, which offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding countryside. You can walk along the ramparts and take in the stunning views, making it a perfect spot for photography. The castle also has several exhibits and interactive displays, providing a fascinating insight into its history and the life of Pope Luna.
The castle also boasts a range of modern amenities and facilities, including restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops. The castle also regularly hosts cultural events, such as concerts and festivals, which add to its appeal as a tourist attraction.
The Mercado Central de Castelló
This market is a must-visit for anyone who loves to explore local food, culture, and history. It is one of the oldest markets in Castellón and is a great place to experience the true essence of Spanish cuisine and culture.
The Mercado Central de Castelló was built in the early 1900s and is still functioning today. This indoor market is a spacious, multi-level building that offers visitors a unique shopping experience.
You can explore an array of stalls selling fresh produce, fish, meat, cheese, and other local specialties. They can also find a range of traditional and handmade goods, including clothing, jewelry, and ceramics.
The Mercado Central de Castelló also features a variety of bars and restaurants, which serve authentic Spanish cuisine. You can sample traditional dishes such as paella, tapas, and sangria while soaking up the lively atmosphere.
The market also features a local food festival every year, which is a great opportunity to try a range of regional specialties and enjoy live music and cultural performances.
One of the most interesting aspects of the Mercado Central de Castelló is its architecture. The market building is an excellent example of the Art Nouveau style and is considered one of the most beautiful examples of this style in Spain. The market’s intricate tile work and stained-glass windows are noteworthy and offer a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Parc Ribalta
The park was built in the 18th century and was once a royal palace for King James I of Aragon. Today, the park serves as a reminder of the rich history of Valencia and its cultural heritage.
Another aspect that draws tourists to Parc Ribalta is its stunning natural beauty. The park features a large lake surrounded by beautiful greenery, making it an ideal spot for picnics, bird-watching, and other outdoor activities. The park also offers several walking and jogging trails, making it a great place to exercise and enjoy the fresh air.
Parc Ribalta is also a cultural hub. The park hosts various events and activities throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and exhibitions. You can enjoy a range of cultural experiences, from live music and dance performances to art exhibitions and historical tours.
Finally, Parc Ribalta is a great place to relax and unwind. You can sit back and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, or take part in one of the many leisure activities on offer, such as boating, fishing, and horse riding. With so much to see and do, Parc Ribalta is the perfect destination if you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Castell de Morella is a magnificent castle that has stood the test of time. The castle dates back to the 9th century and has a rich history, having been used as a fortification, a palace, and even a prison.
Visitors to Castell de Morella are greeted with stunning views of the surrounding countryside, as well as the castle itself. The castle is on top of a hill and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. This makes it a great place to take pictures and admire the natural beauty of the area.
The castle is a perfect example of Gothic architecture, with its impressive walls, towers, and battlements. You can explore the castle’s interior, which includes a chapel, a keep, and a palace. The chapel is noteworthy, with its beautiful stained glass windows and intricate carvings.
Castell de Morella is the castle’s rich history. You can learn about the castle’s history through guided tours and exhibitions. They can also view artifacts and items of historical significance, such as weapons, armor, and clothing.
This makes Castell de Morella a great destination for history buffs. The surrounding countryside is ideal for hiking and exploring, and there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. You can enjoy picnicking, bird watching, and even rock climbing in the area.
The spring is renowned for its therapeutic properties and has been used for centuries for its healing properties.
Visitors to Fuente de los Baños are drawn to its crystal-clear waters, which are rich in minerals and have been proven to have health benefits. The spring water is said to have a soothing effect on the skin and has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including rheumatism, arthritis, and skin conditions.
One of the principal attractions of Fuente de los Baños is the beautiful natural surroundings. The spring is in a lush and peaceful valley, surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests. You can enjoy the serene atmosphere of the valley and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Bartolo Mountain
Bartolo Mountain, in the province of Castellón, Spain, is a magnificent mountain that serves as a popular tourist attraction. The mountain is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular destination for outdoor recreation.
The mountain is in a verdant valley and offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and forests. This makes it a great place to take pictures and admire the natural beauty of the area.
One charm of Bartolo Mountain is the diverse and challenging hiking trails. The mountain is a popular destination for hikers and offers a variety of trails, ranging from simple walks to strenuous climbs. You can explore the mountain’s many scenic routes and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Another highlight of Bartolo Mountain is its rich cultural heritage. The mountain has a rich history, having been used as a spiritual and religious site for centuries. Visitors can learn about the mountain’s cultural significance and the traditions associated with it through guided tours and exhibitions.
Arenal de Borriana
This natural area boasts stunning views of the surrounding landscape and provides you with a range of outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
Arenal de Borriana is a rich cultural heritage, with many historical monuments and sites to explore. The area is home to the ancient Roman city of Borriana, which features well-preserved ruins and mosaics that offer a glimpse into the past. You can also explore the medieval castle of Borriana, which was built in the 12th century and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Besides its natural beauty and cultural heritage, Arenal de Borriana is also known for its delicious local cuisine, which features fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and a variety of regional wines. You can enjoy dining at one of the many restaurants in the area, or sample the local cuisine at the weekly farmers’ market.
Places to Explore in Castellon
Benicàssim
Benicàssim is a town on the Costa del Azahar in the province of Castellón, Spain. This charming town is known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and lively atmosphere, making it a popular destination for tourists from around the world.
Benicàssim has a rich history that dates back to the Roman era. During this time, the town was a strategic point for the control of the area, and several important structures were built, including the castle of Benicàssim, which still stands today and offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding area.
In addition, the town has a rich cultural heritage, with several festivals and events taking place throughout the year, including the famous Fiestas de San Juan, which attracts visitors from all over the world.
Miles of golden sand and crystal-clear waters surround the town, providing the perfect environment for a beach vacation. The most popular of these beaches is the Playa de la Almadraba, a wide and long beach with shallow waters that is ideal for families with children.
In addition, there are several smaller coves and hidden beaches that are perfect for those looking for a more secluded experience.
Benicarló
Benicarló is a small town on the Costa del Azahar in the province of Castellón, Spain. This beautiful town is also well-known for its stunning beaches and vibrant tourist industry, making it a popular destination for tourists from around the world.
Benicarló is such a popular tourist destination is the abundance of activities and amenities that it offers. There are several restaurants, bars, and cafes in the town that serve delicious Spanish food and drinks, as well as international cuisine. There are also several shops and boutiques that sell souvenirs, clothing, and gifts, making it easy for visitors to take a piece of Benicarló back home with them.
Besides its beaches and amenities, Benicarló is also rich in cultural heritage and history. The town has several important landmarks and monuments, including the Castillo de Benicarló, a medieval castle that offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding area.
There are also several museums and art galleries, as well as several festivals and events that take place throughout the year, including the annual Benicarló Music Festival, which attracts visitors from all over the world.
Oropesa del Mar
Oropesa del Mar is a coastal town in the province of Castellón, in the Valencian Community of Spain. The town is well known for its stunning beaches and has become a popular destination for tourists seeking a beach vacation.
Oropesa del Mar is the most famous of these is the Playa del Coniller, a stunning beach with clear blue waters and fine sand that is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and other beach activities. The beach is also surrounded by pine trees and Mediterranean vegetation, which provide shade and create a lovely environment for visitors to relax in.
In addition to its beautiful beaches, Oropesa del Mar also offers a variety of activities and amenities for tourists. There are numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes in the town that serve traditional Spanish food and drinks, as well as international cuisine.
There are also many shops and boutiques that sell souvenirs, clothing, and gifts. For those interested in sports, there are tennis courts, a golf course, and many water sports centers that offer activities such as windsurfing, kite surfing, and paddle boarding.
Oropesa del Mar is also well known for its historical and cultural attractions. The town is home to several important landmarks, including the Castillo de Oropesa, a medieval castle that was built in the 13th century and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
The town also has several museums and art galleries, as well as several festivals and events that take place throughout the year, including the annual Oropesa International Festival, which attracts visitors from all over the world.
Gay-Friendly Hotels in Castellon, Spain
An environment that is inviting, mannered and without prejudice of sexual orientation is what any queer person wants. Although there are no exclusively gay hotels in Castellon, these picks still offer top services.
Needless to say, there are also hundreds more hotel and hostel options in Castellon if none of these suit your desired budget, facilities or area – but these are the best hotels according to other gay travelers and us. Whatever your needs are, Castellon has you covered.
A simple hotel between the sea and the mountains. The Hotel Luz Castellón is a contemporary, extremely exquisite 4-star exception that is only a few minutes from the city’s core and has good transportation from Valencia or Barcelona. It provided the ideal stay in the city.
In Castellón’s newest business district, between the English Court, the Renfe station, and the Jaime I University. There are 142 roomy accommodations in the hotel, including 32 junior suites and 6 double rooms with panoramic windows. Two executive deluxe rooms and one bridal suite each have complimentary WiFi.
The earliest hotel in Castellon, the NH Castellón Mindoro, is still among the best today thanks to a contemporary renovation in 2014. It is only a two-minute stroll from the Fadri Tower, the town hall, and the cathedral, three of the city’s most well-known attractions. On the doorstep are shops and tapas bars.
The beach is also just a short bus ride away. In total, the hotel has 102 rooms. They all provide contemporary conveniences like free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Additionally, the top floors have spectacular views of Castellon, which are especially stunning at night when the city is fully illuminated.
The hotel was renovated in 2018, and its design, amenities, and location provide hints about where it is from. The Hotel Intur Castellón is a large, contemporary, and well-lit structure in the center of the area. The sophisticated décor and practical furniture emphasized the simplicity of these large, pleasant rooms.
They have all the amenities required for your stay. a unique culinary experience for those who mark. ConTacto, a restaurant that will surprise you with tasting menus that blend cultures and uphold tradition, provides that chance.
The ideal hotel for exploring the east coast of Spain and the interior’s natural beauty is in Castellón and is close to the beach. Plan your days from a city center room with a cutting-edge layout. Beautiful dining selections guarantee that you’ll have plenty of energy all day. You can also exercise in the sauna-equipped gym.
Enjoy delightful fresh orange juice from the Castellón orange trees for breakfast, and for other meals, choose from a variety of unique cuisines and Mediterranean cuisine. In our completely furnished gym and sauna, take good care of yourself. Spend some time exploring the wonderful interior and coastline, which are both full of spectacular and unexpected sites.
Hotel Jaime I is a contemporary and welcoming hotel in Castellón. The establishment is adequately accessible by road, and the Manises Airport is 60 kilometers away. It features 87 rooms and free WiFi is available throughout all of its amenities. The 9 perfectly combinable rooms at the Hotel Jaime I are suitable for conducting any kind of event in Castellón.
They have every piece of audiovisual equipment you might possibly need, and our personnel will make sure that everything goes as planned. Nine completely interconnecting rooms with the newest audiovisual equipment are available at the Hotel Jaime I. The interior is designed with postmodern styles while retaining the culture of Castellon.
This tiny, 2-star hotel offers a perfect location for a trip to Castellón and the lovely beaches of the Costa del Azahar because it is next to the bullring in the city’s heart. The church, Ribalta Park, the train station, and the main retail streets of Castellón are all conveniently located close to the Zaymar.
A large variety of regional eateries are also available, where you may sample paella and other classic dishes from the Mediterranean region. The Zaymar is positioned close to Valencia’s beautiful, sandy beaches between the sea and the mountains.
Many golf courses can be located close by. Relax in your traditional-style guestroom after a hard day exploring everything the area offers.
Gay Nightlife in Castellon, Spain
Castellon’s proximity to Valencia doesn’t affect its gay scene. Although Valencia has a much more robust gay nightlife, this coastal city still holds its ground with gay-friendly clubs that will leave you beat with so much fun.
Gay and Gay-Friendly Bars and Clubs in Castellon
Since 1988, this club has been revitalizing the music scene in Castellon. If you a heavy metal fan, you would definitely not want to leave. They host lots of concerts and heavy metal live music shows that would have you rocking your head till your neck begs you to stop. Apart from the music, this club is also very respectful of the LGBT community.
This disco club is Castellon’s first LGBT disco club. A lot goes down at clams. They host several theme parties a week and they also host drag shows. Their music is the absolute best, cutting across different genres and artists.
This gay-friendly pub draws in a younger crowd – typically young adults. They have a dance and party area and an area for games and friendly chats as you sip your beer. They tailored the music towards a younger crowd too, but despite it being for the younglings, it is still a great place to hang out and has a good time.
The Bar Cafeteria El Conde Dracula is a gay-friendly bar and also an excellent choice for a refreshing drink in a beautiful setting. The pub dazzles with its diverse drink menu, live music, and vibrant activities. When the weather permits, relax on the beautiful terrace. The air-conditioned rooms allow you to comfortably escape the heat.
Azul is an amazing gay-friendly club. You never know what to expect when you work through its doors. They usually host parties and reggaeton nights, neon nights and other awesome things.
Another friendly disco club in Castellon, the mission of this club is for you to have a good time and so has zero tolerance for discrimination of any kind. Their drinks are amazing and the music will keep you dancing all night long.
Cruising and Saunas in Castellon, Spain
Castellon has more to offer than beaches, sights, and vibrant nightlife. Indulge yourself and explore cruising in the city.
Cruising Bar
It is the largest sex bar in the city. A large maze to get lost in, with multiple cabins, double cabins and simple, videos, glory holes, slings, dark rooms, showers, and much more. Men’s Sex Bar has recently undergone renovations and had its amenities expanded.
Although it is a sex bar with two areas, one large and “luminous” for drinking, chatting, dancing, and flirting in a pleasant environment and another specifically for sex, it creates a stark contrast because it allows you to choose between two very different environments depending on what you want or are looking for.
Gay Map Of Castellon
Finding it hard to envisage where everything is in Castellon? Hopefully, this queer-centric map helps where we have marked all the bars, clubs, parties, hotels, saunas, massages and more will help you stay in the spot best suited to you!