Greenway by Montsport

The iconic bike route of the Ebre

Explore the Greenway of the Terres de l’Ebre from Horta de Sant Joan with Montsport

The Greenway of the Val de Zafán follows the former railway between La Puebla de Híjar and Tortosa. In 1973 it was closed after a tunnel collapse between Prat de Comte and Pinell de Brai. Today it’s a safe, highly scenic cycling route. It runs ~99 km from Teruel to Tarragona and gently descends towards the sea, which makes it ideal for families and groups.

Why start in Horta de Sant Joan

Horta de Sant Joan is a key starting point: solid logistics, favourable gradient, and a seamless connection between Terra Alta and Baix Ebre. From here you’ll pass through tunnels and viaducts, swimming spots like La Fontcalda, and former station buildings now offering cyclist services (bar, terrace, accommodation).

RELATED ARTICLE WHAT TO DO IN HORTA DE SANT JOAN

Montsport: tailored bike hire and logistics

Montsport is the local specialist for the Vía Verde and Els Ports. They offer all kinds of mountain and leisure bikes, e-bikes, fatbikes, and kids’ accessories (buggy, follow-me). They also have family bikes (2 adults + 2 kids) and TEAMbikes (4 adults + 2 kids) to share the ride. Base rentals start from €15/day; the fleet is frequently renewed.

Transport & pick-up

For convenience, Montsport organises shuttles and end-of-stage pick-ups. This way you can ride the downhill section and return to Horta without worrying about the car. Montsport

Favourite routes

greenway map horta de sant joan - terres ebre -

100% Terra Alta Route (Horta → Pinell · ~20 km). Els Ports, Ebro Battle sites, Canaletes Valley, La Fontcalda, and classic Mediterranean scenery (vineyards, olive and almond groves). Up to 25 tunnels and 4 aqueducts across the historic section.
Ebrenca Route (Horta → Benifallet / Xerta · ~25–32 km). La Fontcalda, the River Ebro, and a cyclist-friendly finish in Benifallet (former station with bar, restaurant, and accommodation).
Matarranya Route (Vall-de-roures → Pinell · ~30 km). Els Ports, the Algars River (wild-swimming pools), Canaletes, and Ebro Battle landscapes.
Litoral Route (Benifallet/Xerta → Horta · ~25–32 km). Ride it uphill or take a shuttle to the start and enjoy the descent back to Horta.

Pack and shuttle prices according to Montsport’s current rates. Check when booking.

Natural setting: Els Ports, the Ebro & La Fontcalda

You’ll pedal through a Mediterranean agro-forest mosaic: olive trees, vineyards and almond groves. The route traces the Parc Natural dels Ports and landmarks such as Roques de Benet and Santa Bàrbara mountain. A classic stop is the Sanctuary and pools of La Fontcalda, with warm waters and unique geology. Further south, the Ebro Valley opens up with orange groves and river birdlife.

Practical information

Family-pace duration: Horta → Benifallet, 3–4 h without long stops.
Safety: helmet, headlamp (tunnel lights may fail), water and sun protection.
Best seasons: spring and autumn; in summer, start early and enjoy controlled swims at La Fontcalda.
Bookings: call, email or book online; Montsport will allocate bikes, accessories and transport to suit your group and stage.

FAQs

Do I need prior experience? No. The overall gradient is downhill and the route suits families.
What’s the total distance? About 99 km from Teruel to Tarragona; many visitors ride only the Terra Alta + Baix Ebre sections.
Why start in Horta? For logistics and gradient; it’s a central point to arrange shuttles and the return.
What’s included in the rental? Bike (or e-bike), helmet and children’s options (buggy/follow-me). Check family packs and TEAMbikes.
Are there services along the route? Yes: former station buildings with bar, restaurant or accommodation (e.g., Estació de Benifallet).

Montsport experiences

While the Vía Verde is the star activity in the Terres de l’Ebre, Montsport also runs sports, cultural and foodie experiences for couples, friends and families. Highlights include the Picasso & Horta cultural tour, canyoning on the Matarranya River, and wine-and-oil experiences to taste local products like DOP olive oil and DO Terra Alta wine.

Experiences Monsport Horta