Attractions and Places To See around Maella - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Maella are found in the Bajo Aragón-Caspe region of Zaragoza, Spain. This area is characterized by the confluence of the Algars and Guadalope rivers, and is traversed by the Matarraña River. Maella offers a blend of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features for visitors to explore. The region's landscape includes river valleys, agricultural areas, and remnants of ancient railway lines.
Best attractions and places to see around Maella
- The most popular attractions is Railway Tunnel, an other man-made structure. It is a tunnel where lights are mandatory due to total darkness, offering a unique experience. This structure was originally built for train use.
- Another must-see spot is Abandoned Valldeltormo Station, a historical site. Visitors can explore the station and a nearby 300-meter tunnel that requires lights to cross.
- Visitors also love Abandoned Valljunquera Railway Station, a man-made monument. This station is located in a spectacular setting and is relatively well-preserved, with easy access from the N-420.
- Maella is known for its historical sites, railway infrastructure, and natural trails. The area provides opportunities to explore old railway lines, tunnels, and river landscapes.
- The attractions around Maella are appreciated by the komoot community, with 11 upvotes and 2 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Valdealgorfa
Highlight • Trail
40.2 kilometers. 320 positive meters.
The end of the bikepacking trip has a magnificent closure. The route leaves the Horta de Sant Joan station, passes through one of the last tunnels on the way and the Algars River Viaduct appears, impressive, 170 meters long and four large arches 20 meters high. At the bridge you cross the Matarraña-Algars Natural Trail. The path advances through a landscape of crops, vines and scrubland until the Cretas station. The town leaves the mountains on the right and the route runs along the highest section of the old railway route, at the old Valderrobres station. The descent through the Canaleta valley is fantastic, the bikes launch at full speed towards the plain of the Matarraña river. On some hills to the left, the silhouette of the Torre del Compte houses appears attached to the crest of a lookout hill, like most of the towns in the region. The path passes through the old station, converted into a rural hotel, and crosses the Matarraña viaduct, 275 meters long, one of the great works of the railway. The meadow is a beautiful agricultural area of impeccable crops, adapted to the soil and relief of the valley.
The Matarraña River marks the end of the mountain landscapes. The road passes through a new curved tunnel and immediately the Valdeltorno station appears, where the detour to the Matarraña Natural Path that we used three days before in the first stage towards Fayón departs. Now the route continues straight on through familiar terrain, it crosses the straight that goes up to the attractive Valjunquera station and shortly after the decisive moment of the stage arrives. On the first day of the trip we leave the Equinox Tunnel for the return and it is time to face the experience. The milestones of the Natural Trail indicate the route outside the tunnel for safety, since it is not conditioned or maintained, landslides and waterlogged sections may appear, the ground is stony and it is easy to suffer incidents, it is a 2.4 kilometer journey of darkness and It is the responsibility of each person to make the decision to travel through the old railway tunnel. In our case we asked in the town and at that time it was in acceptable condition. And we chose the direction from east to west so that it was downhill because there is a 60 meter difference in altitude. The surface has sections with quite a few stones and you have to hone in on the gravel to avoid skidding, it is a matter of patience, good light and skill. The exit hole grows little by little and finally the fence installed at the mouth of the tunnel appears to control the passage and a few meters later the Valdealgorfa station, the end of a new and intense bikepacking adventure.
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Equinox Tunnel
Highlight (Segment) • Structure
It is very rare to go through these 2 kilometers in the tunnel. 2 kilometers in the dark. You move but it seems that until the last meters you do not approach the exit. You totally lose the feeling of time and space. A bit chilling experience but recommended;)
Twice a year the sun totally illuminates its interior; around the autumn and spring equinoxes, hence its name.
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Railway Tunnel
Highlight • Structure
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Abandoned Valljunquera Railway Station
Highlight • Monument
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Abandoned Valldeltormo Station
Highlight • Historical Site
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Tips from the Community
Stage 4. Horta de Sant Joan/Valdealgorfa 40.2 kilometers. 320 positive meters. The end of the bikepacking trip has a magnificent closure. The route leaves the Horta de Sant Joan station, passes through one of the last tunnels on the way and the Algars River Viaduct appears, impressive, 170 meters long and four large arches 20 meters high. At the bridge you cross the Matarraña-Algars Natural Trail. The path advances through a landscape of crops, vines and scrubland until the Cretas station. The town leaves the mountains on the right and the route runs along the highest section of the old railway route, at the old Valderrobres station. The descent through the Canaleta valley is fantastic, the bikes launch at full speed towards the plain of the Matarraña river. On some hills to the left, the silhouette of the Torre del Compte houses appears attached to the crest of a lookout hill, like most of the towns in the region. The path passes through the old station, converted into a rural hotel, and crosses the Matarraña viaduct, 275 meters long, one of the great works of the railway. The meadow is a beautiful agricultural area of impeccable crops, adapted to the soil and relief of the valley. The Matarraña River marks the end of the mountain landscapes. The road passes through a new curved tunnel and immediately the Valdeltorno station appears, where the detour to the Matarraña Natural Path that we used three days before in the first stage towards Fayón departs. Now the route continues straight on through familiar terrain, it crosses the straight that goes up to the attractive Valjunquera station and shortly after the decisive moment of the stage arrives. On the first day of the trip we leave the Equinox Tunnel for the return and it is time to face the experience. The milestones of the Natural Trail indicate the route outside the tunnel for safety, since it is not conditioned or maintained, landslides and waterlogged sections may appear, the ground is stony and it is easy to suffer incidents, it is a 2.4 kilometer journey of darkness and It is the responsibility of each person to make the decision to travel through the old railway tunnel. In our case we asked in the town and at that time it was in acceptable condition. And we chose the direction from east to west so that it was downhill because there is a 60 meter difference in altitude. The surface has sections with quite a few stones and you have to hone in on the gravel to avoid skidding, it is a matter of patience, good light and skill. The exit hole grows little by little and finally the fence installed at the mouth of the tunnel appears to control the passage and a few meters later the Valdealgorfa station, the end of a new and intense bikepacking adventure.
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It is mandatory to use lights inside the tunnel. Not only to see the way, but also to be seen. It's exciting to think that these structures were built for train use only.
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It is essential to bring light, it is totally dark. It has some doors, it may be closed at some point.
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The station is in a spectacular location and relatively well preserved. Very easy access from the N-420 at the junction to go to Valljunquera. Ideal for walking along the greenway or for cycling along the route.
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There are signs that say that there is automatic lighting inside the tunnel, but when I went through it was not working. There are reflective signs on the walls and if you go with light they serve as a guide. The darkness inside is total for a long time until "the light at the end of the tunnel" is no longer seen.
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There is a 300 meter tunnel very close to the station in the direction of Torre del Compte. It is completely dark and you need lights to cross it.
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I have read that it is normally closed for security, but when I went the doors were open. To skirt it, it must be done by a path enabled for it. It is very rare to go through these 2 kilometers in the tunnel. 2 kilometers in the dark. You move but it seems that until the last meters you do not approach the exit. You totally lose the feeling of time and space. A bit chilling experience but recommended;) Twice a year the sun totally illuminates its interior; around the autumn and spring equinoxes, hence its name.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I visit in Maella?
Maella boasts a rich history with several notable landmarks. You can explore the ruins of the Maella Castle, also known as the Castle of the Count of Aranda, which offers imposing walls and wine cellars now hosting exhibitions. Other significant sites include the unique Clock Tower (Torre del Reloj) with its Romanesque and Mudejar styles, the 14th-century Gothic Church of Santa María, and the Parish Church of San Esteban featuring Romanesque and Plateresque elements. Don't miss the birthplace and museum of renowned sculptor Pablo Gargallo.
Are there any archaeological sites near Maella?
Yes, the region around Maella is home to important archaeological remains. You can visit ancient Iberian settlements such as the lithic station of La Trapa and the site of Tossal Gort. Additionally, the remains of the La Trapa monastery, built in the 6th century by Benedictine monks, can be explored in the direction of Fabara.
What natural features can I explore around Maella?
Maella is situated at the confluence of the Algars and Guadalope rivers and is traversed by the Matarraña River, offering picturesque views. The area is also known for its extensive network of Vías Verdes (Greenways), which are old railway lines converted into trails. These greenways provide access to impressive features like the Equinox Tunnel and the Algars River Viaduct, a 170-meter long structure with four large arches.
What outdoor activities can I do near Maella?
The area around Maella is excellent for outdoor activities, particularly cycling and hiking. The Matarraña River surroundings and the Vías Verdes network are ideal for exploring. For specific routes, you can find many options for hiking, cycling, and running. Popular trails include the Matarraña-Algars Natural Trail, which winds through vineyards and scrubland.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Maella?
Absolutely! The Vías Verdes (Greenways) are generally suitable for families, offering easy paths for walking and cycling. The Abandoned Valljunquera Railway Station is particularly noted as family-friendly, located in a spectacular setting with easy access. Exploring the old railway tunnels, like the Railway Tunnel, can also be an exciting adventure for older children, provided you bring lights.
What is unique about the railway tunnels near Maella?
The railway tunnels are a distinctive feature of the Vías Verdes. The Equinox Tunnel is particularly unique as the sun fully illuminates its interior only twice a year, around the autumn and spring equinoxes. Many tunnels, including the Railway Tunnel and the 300-meter tunnel near Abandoned Valldeltormo Station, are completely dark and require visitors to bring their own lights, creating a memorable and somewhat chilling experience as you lose the feeling of time and space.
What do visitors enjoy most about the abandoned railway stations?
Visitors appreciate the historical charm and scenic locations of the abandoned railway stations. The Abandoned Valljunquera Railway Station is highlighted for its spectacular setting and relatively well-preserved condition, offering easy access. The Abandoned Valldeltormo Station is also popular, especially for its proximity to a 300-meter tunnel that adds an adventurous element to the visit.
When is the best time to visit Maella for outdoor activities?
For outdoor activities like cycling and hiking along the Vías Verdes and river trails, spring and autumn are generally the most pleasant seasons due to milder temperatures. If you're interested in the unique phenomenon of the Equinox Tunnel, consider visiting around the autumn or spring equinox when the sun fully illuminates its interior.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the trails around Maella?
The trails around Maella offer varied terrain. You'll find paths along river valleys, through agricultural areas, vineyards, and scrubland, particularly on the Matarraña-Algars Natural Trail. The Vías Verdes follow old railway lines, providing relatively flat and easy routes. However, some sections within the railway tunnels can be stony, and may require careful navigation, especially if not well-maintained.
Are there any impressive bridges or viaducts to see?
Yes, the area features impressive engineering marvels from its railway past. The Algars River Viaduct is a notable example, stretching 170 meters long with four large arches reaching 20 meters in height. It's a significant landmark along the Vías Verdes and offers a spectacular view as you cross it.
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