The Mijares is the most important river in the province of Castellón, not only due to the width of its bed and its water flow but also because of its historical significance. As early as 1795, José Cavanilles noted that “the Millares is the source of abundance.”
From its source in the Sierra de Gúdar to its mouth between Almazora and Burriana, the river follows a winding path through various gorges that cross the mountainous interior. The Sierra de las Pedrizas in the town of Onda marks the transition to the coastal plains of La Plana. At this point, the river becomes wilder, featuring several rapids and small waterfalls perfect for navigating with whitewater vessels.
Whitewater descent is a sporting and recreational activity that involves traveling down riverbeds in the direction of the current. In this particular stretch, during more than four kilometers of descent, we can contemplate impressive rock landscapes and rich riverside flora.
From a sporting perspective, we distinguish two routes: the first is more exciting due to the narrowness of the river and its greater incline; the second, with more calm pools and a more open character, allows for an introduction to this sport. The end of the descent is marked by a small dam of Roman origin that the most daring paddlers can jump if the water level permits. It is worth noting the proximity of this sporting stretch to the river mouth, making it one of the areas closest to the sea for practicing whitewater canoeing.
Ultimately, Castellón still holds incredible natural treasures with great tourism potential in its interior. In this case, the Mijares River as it passes through Onda has nothing to envy compared to other better-known areas with a longer canoeing history in the rest of Spain.
With NUCS instructors, certified as sports technicians in canoeing, you can discover this area and start whitewater descent safely.