Toasting Sunsets and Murmurations in Peñíscola, Spain

Old town Peñíscola, often referred to as the Gibraltar of Valencia was voted one of the most beautiful villages in Spain in 2013. With its white-washed buildings, vibrant blue and copper accents, it’s a beautiful and inviting place to linger.

After entering through one of the three entrances, as you stroll through the maze of narrow, cobbled streets, be sure to look up at the balconies with extensive tile work and inlays.

We’re staying in a vacation apartment in the center of old town, up three flights of narrow, spiral stairs, with an unobstructed view of the Mediterranean. The deck is a perfect place to toast the setting sun while watching the fishing boats return with their hauls, and the swooping, swirling, starlings perform their ballets in the sky above us. Freeform for a while, until something pulls them into a tight formation of swoops, spirals, and surprises for us humans below.

Last weekend we enjoyed the Festival of San Antonio Abad, the patron saint of animals. The festival included a parade of horses and riders. Sand was spread on the streets through town to make it easier for the horses to walk. Of course, these kids thought it was their own personal sandbox.

There’s so much to do and see here, including Castillo de Peñíscola aka Castillo de Papa Luna, Artillery Park and Gardens, Escape Room, Magic Museum, Museum of the Sea, and of course the beautiful beaches; more on these in the coming weeks.

You’ll find restaurants, accommodations, shops, and museums in both the old and new towns, all easily accessible by walking. Since it’s the off season, many of the restaurants are closed, but we have found some terrific ones open for business. Taberna La Cueva right next to our rental apartment, has an extensive menu, delicious food, and the owner is especially friendly and welcoming.

Rojo Picota is absolutely fabulous and one of the best restaurants we have been to so far. The food is delicious, creative, and the service is very friendly. Thanks to theTravelsketcher for the photos.

Blue Dream is another great restaurant with delicious food in a gorgeous setting. We spent an afternoon here a few days ago where I did a some writing and theTravelsketcher painted.

Our home away from home for two weeks, we are thoroughly enjoying the sunsets, starlings, and goings-on in the streets below. This truly is a magical place.

Have you visited Peñíscola? Even if you haven’t I would love to hear from you.

Wishing you sunny skies and grand adventures,

Tricia