Zorita del Maestrazgo

Enveloped in the mountains, Zorita del Maestrazgo is a picturesque country village surrounded by incredible scenery in which you will find a place of worship tucked into a rocky mound.

Wander pretty streets lined with stone-built houses and visit the spectacular Santuario de la Mare de Déu de la Balma. Zorita del Maestrazgo is a quaint little place where you can slow down and be at one with mother nature. Keep reading to discover everything there is to enjoy in and around the village. 

What to see in Zorita del Maestrazgo

Located in Els Ports, Zorita del Maestrazgo may be small but it has a great deal to offer. The destination’s biggest attraction is Santuario de la Mare de Déu de la Balma. Dedicated to Virgen de la Balma, the shrine is truly one-of-a-kind as it is nestled into an imposing rock face. Tradition has it that a local shepherd was once visited by the Virgin in the area. 

As you approach the shrine, you will be treated to beautiful views of the Renaissance façade that is, almost, indistinguishable from the rockface. Make your way up to the place of worship by walking up some Medieval steps and then breathe in vistas over the meandering river Bergantes, a tributary of the river Ebro. 

Founded by the Moors, Zorita del Maestrat is enveloped in a mountainscape that lends itself to outdoor pursuits. The area is great for mountain biking. For more information on routes, browse MTB Trails in Els Ports. Walkers will also be pleased to know there are plenty of trails offering historic sites and beautiful views. You could explore, for instance, the Buenos Mozos area, the monumental pine trees and the river Bergantes, which has a trail following the course of the water. 

Zorita del Maestrazgo also has its fair share of traditions. In September, there are festivities celebrating Virgen de la Balma which include processions, dancing and enactments of a fight between the devil and an angel. San Antonio is another great time to visit the destination. Make sure you try the coquetes, pastries filled with sweet pumpkin, and watch the flames of a great bonfire that was built by the locals. If you’re keen to explore northern Region of Valencia, Zorita del Maestrazgo is most certainly a destination to put on your to-visit list.