Castellón-Costa Azahar Airport

Overview

Castellon-Costa Azahar Airport (officially Aeropuerto de Castellón-Costa Azahar) is a relatively new international airport serving the province of Castellón in the Valencian Community, Spain. It opened in the early 2010s and primarily handles seasonal charter and low-cost flights from various European destinations, especially the United Kingdom, Germany, and Scandinavia. The airport is designed for leisure travellers heading to the Costa del Azahar, a stretch of coastline known for its citrus orchards and sandy beaches. While not as busy as Valencia or Barcelona airports, it offers a convenient alternative for visitors to northern Valencia and southern Catalonia. The airport is also used for general aviation and occasional cargo flights.

Location & Access

Castellon-Costa Azahar Airport is located in the municipality of Benlloch, approximately 30 kilometres north of Castellón de la Plana, the provincial capital, and about 100 kilometres north of Valencia city. The airport sits inland, roughly 15 kilometres from the Mediterranean coast. Access by road is via the CV-10 motorway (Autovía de la Plana), which connects to the AP-7 toll motorway and the N-340 coastal road. Driving from Castellón city takes about 25 minutes; from Valencia, about one hour. Public transport options are limited but include a local bus service operated by Hicid (bus line L1) that connects the airport to Castellón city centre and bus station. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available, and several car rental companies have desks in the terminal. The airport offers free parking for passengers, with wheelchair-accessible spaces near the entrance.

Facilities

Despite its modest size, the terminal provides essential services for passengers. Confirmed amenities include:

• Baggage storage: A left-luggage service for those wanting to explore the area without their suitcases.
• Wheelchair accessibility: The car park, entrance, and toilets are fully accessible for passengers with reduced mobility. Wheelchair-accessible toilets are clearly signposted.
• Baby changing facilities: A changing table is available in the accessible toilet.
• Public toilets: Clean and well-maintained restrooms.
• Free parking: A large car park directly in front of the terminal, free of charge for all passengers.

The terminal building is compact, with a single arrivals and departures hall. There are no extensive shopping or dining options beyond a small café and a duty-free shop. Wi-Fi is available in the public areas. The airport is not open every day – its operating days and hours vary, so travellers should check the flight schedule and confirm the airport is open on their travel date. Peak passenger flow occurs around 8-9 am, corresponding to early morning departures.

About the Region

The Costa del Azahar – Spanish for “Orange Blossom Coast” – runs from the Serra d’Irta in the north down to the Albufera natural park near Valencia. The region is famous for its centuries-old citrus groves, olive trees, and almond orchards. The climate is Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination for beach holidays, hiking, and golf. The coastline offers sandy beaches and coves, particularly around Peñíscola, Alcossebre, and Oropesa del Mar. Inland, the historic town of Morella sits on a hilltop with a medieval castle, while the Maestrazgo region features rugged mountains and charming villages. The provincial capital, Castellón de la Plana, is known for its cathedral, the Fadri bell tower, and the Tombatossals festival. Visitors also come for world-class golf courses, water sports, and the famous paella, which originates from the wider Valencia region. The airport serves as a gateway for tourists seeking a quieter alternative to the crowded Costa Blanca and Costa Brava.

Practical Information

Address: Aeropuerto de Castellón-Costa Azahar, Carretera CV-10, km 40, 12184 Benlloch, Castellón, Spain.

Phone: +34 964 57 86 00

Website: https://aeroportcastello.com/es/

Hours: The airport is not open daily. It operates only on days when flights are scheduled. Most flights depart and arrive between early morning and late afternoon. Passengers are advised to check the official website for the current flight timetable and terminal opening hours before travelling.

Peak hours: 8 am to 9 am are the busiest times for departures; arriving passengers tend to come later in the morning and early afternoon.

Parking: Free parking is available in the on-site lot, with designated spaces for disabled drivers.

Accessibility: The terminal is fully wheelchair accessible, including the car park, entrance, and toilet facilities.

Whether you are heading to the beaches of Peñíscola or the mountains of Morella, Castellon-Costa Azahar Airport offers a low-stress start to your journey.