Description

The Sant Roc Recreational Area is located in the municipality of Paüls, in one of the most characteristic settings of the Paüls valley and at the gateway to Els Ports Natural Park. Situated at an altitude of around 440 metres, the area surrounds the Sant Roc Hermitage and is framed by Aleppo pine forests and holm oak woodland.


The spring, the shade provided by the trees and the way the site blends into the landscape make Sant Roc a particularly pleasant place to visit. In addition, the area preserves a distinctive local tradition: the corros, consisting of dry-stone tables and benches. Each corro is associated with a family from the village, reflecting the close relationship between this place and the people of Paüls.



The traditional corros at Sant Roc Recreational Area


The corros are one of the most distinctive features of Sant Roc. A local ordinance recognises family use of these stone tables on traditional occasions such as Sant Roc, Sant Antoni and Easter Monday.


However, visitors should be aware of an important regulation: fires are not permitted in the barbecue areas of the corros. Signs and specific regulations established by Paüls Town Council must also be respected.



Three trails from Sant Roc


Three circular trails signposted by Els Ports Natural Park start from the Sant Roc Recreational Area. In addition, the long-distance GR-7 and GR-171 trails pass through this area.


The Font del Teix trail is the shortest. It is 4.5 km long, with 180 metres of elevation gain and an estimated walking time of 1 hour. It is classified as a low-difficulty route.


Meanwhile, the Font del Teix – Font dels Ullals trail is 8.1 km long, with 225 metres of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 1 hour and 45 minutes. It is classified as medium difficulty.


Finally, the Pla de l’Hedra trail covers 7.6 km, with 460 metres of elevation gain. The estimated duration is 2 hours, and the route is classified as medium difficulty.



How to reach Sant Roc Recreational Area


From Tortosa, follow the C-12 towards Móra d’Ebre and, after approximately 10 km, take the TV-3541 towards Paüls. At the entrance to the village, follow the signs for Sant Roc Hermitage. A paved road skirts the lower part of Paüls and reaches the recreational area after 2.2 km.


Therefore, Sant Roc is an excellent starting point for exploring the landscapes around Paüls on foot. Mediterranean forests, springs, walking trails and traditional heritage come together in a setting closely connected to the life and history of the village.