Description
The Former Pinell de Brai Railway Station is one of the notable stops along the Val de Zafán Greenway as it passes through the Terra Alta. Located outside the village of El Pinell de Brai, it preserves part of the former railway facilities. It also provides direct access to one of the most attractive sections of the route, characterised by the River Canaletes, tunnels and mountain scenery.
Today, part of the railway complex has been given new uses. In addition, the former goods warehouse, dating from 1920, has been restored and now houses the La Brasa Verda restaurant. The surrounding area also has parking and can be reached by vehicle. Therefore, the station can be used as a starting or finishing point for a journey along the Greenway.
Former Pinell de Brai Railway Station and the Val de Zafán line
The history of the Former Pinell de Brai Railway Station is closely linked to the Val de Zafán railway, the former line that connected Aragon with the Terres de l’Ebre. Rail services to Tortosa began in 1942 and continued until 17 September 1973, when the line was permanently closed.
Subsequently, the former railway track was converted for cycling and walking. As a result, the station is now part of a route that preserves numerous features of its railway past, including tunnels, viaducts, cuttings and former stations.
A connecting point along the Greenway
The station is located at a particularly interesting point along the route. The Terra Alta Greenway section, opened in 2000, runs between Arnes and El Pinell de Brai. From here, the route continues towards Benifallet, Xerta, Aldover and Tortosa through the Baix Ebre.
Therefore, the former station acts as a connecting point between the landscapes of the Terra Alta and Baix Ebre. However, visitors should bear in mind that it is located approximately 6 km from the centre of El Pinell de Brai.
The Canaletes and Fontcalda
Heading towards Prat de Comte and Bot, the Greenway gradually enters the valley of the River Canaletes. In fact, this section contains some of the most characteristic features of the former railway infrastructure. Numerous tunnels and viaducts are integrated into the rugged landscape.
Following the Greenway, visitors can reach the Fontcalda Sanctuary, one of the main attractions along this section. In addition, the route offers views of the Serra de Pàndols. In this way, visitors can also appreciate the relationship between the former railway and the challenging terrain it had to overcome.
Railway heritage and landscape
The area around the station is also of geological interest, recognised by the Inventory of Sites of Geological Interest of Catalonia. The Greenway provides an opportunity to observe the rocks and landforms that characterise this sector of the Móra Basin.
Finally, the Former Pinell de Brai Railway Station combines railway heritage, landscape and active tourism. Its location, direct access to the Greenway and proximity to the Canaletes and Fontcalda make it an interesting stop for discovering this part of the Terra Alta.