HIKING IN VALENCIA
Hiking and trekking in the Valencia region is initially a matter of transport. Areas of interest for hiking are some 60 kilometres and more away from the city. Most are only accessible by car.
Calles to Chelva
Two villages called Calles and Chelva are located 10 kilometres away from each other. They are nestled in rugged mountains and a short distance beyond the Parque Natural Chera-Sot.
After arriving in Calles, one option is to head south west into nature and return the same route. Another takes to hikers to Chelva. Two trails of 5.5 kms or 7 kms long take between 1.5 to 2 hours to cover. Here the rewards are twofold. The charming ancient Roman aqueduct of Peña Cortada and picturesque Ruta de Agua are along the pathways. The pretty whitewashed village of Chelva also offers a few delightful places to eat a tasty meal with good wine.
Navajas
Navajas is situated some 60 kilometres journey north of Valencia. It is possible to travel early via Sagunto by train and return the same afternoon. A 10 km taxi ride to the Parc Natural de la Serra Calderona rewards with hikes in mountainous countryside of 7 kms or 14 kms.
Xativa
Xativa is a small town 60 kilometres south of Valencia. It is some 40 minutes away by train. The walk to Iglesia Sant Feliu and up to the castell are not a hike but, nonetheless, popular. Ancient monuments and picturesque vistas are highly gratifying. So too, the tasty food available before taking a train back to Valencia.
Chulilla
Easily reachable by car, Chulilla lies 60 kilometres north west of the city. It is very close to the Parque Natural Chera-Sot de Chera. The stunning Turia canyon in the beautiful natural park is just one reason why it is such a popular attraction.
Montanejo
Further north from Valencia is Montanejos. It is a full day trip or an overnight stay away. Located above 400 metres, the town has an almost alpine flavour. Many enjoy hiking in the surrounding mountains. Visitors are surprised to discover the hot springs. Yet more by a swim in their expansive warm waters.
Story Vincent Green, advice Howard Donaldson, Mar 5 2019
PETS IN VALENCIA
Nowadays in Spain, people have warmed to humanity’s best friend and other pets. The Turia riverbed park is a marvellous, natural place for pets to stroll, play and interact with each other. Small areas are fenced off for dogs.
OCEANOGRAFIC VALENCIA
The Oceanografic in Valencia excites with surprising insights. Situated in the spectacular surroundings of the City of Arts and Sciences it is the largest aquarium in Europe.
Original language movies are screened regularly in Valencia. Expats and locals head especially to Babel and Yelmo to enjoy films mostly with subtitles, VOS or VOSE or, at times without, VO. Both art house and blockbusters can be seen.
