Within easy reach of Valencia are several worthwhile attractions. The lagoon of La Albufera is the fertile spiritual home of rice dishes, and also offers beaches and birdwatching. The castles of Xàtiva and Sagunto give majestic vistas and historical perspective, while Requena is the region's main wine town. Gandia is an enjoyable town at the start of the Costa Blanca, while Buñol comes into its own for the riotous Tomatina festival.
These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Valencia Province.
Castle
Xàtiva’s castle, which clasps to the summit of a double-peaked hill overlooking the old town, is arguably the most evocative and interesting in the Valencia region. Behind its crumbling battlements you’ll find flower gardens (bring a picnic), tumbledown turrets, towers and other buildings (some used in the 20th century and hence much changed), such as dungeons and a pretty Gothic chapel. The walk up to the castle is a long one, but the views are sensational.
Palace
Gandia’s magnificent palace was built in the early 1300s and was for centuries the home of the Borja dukes of Gandia, who included the Jesuit saint Francis Borgia. Though much remodelled in the 19th century, the building preserves some original detail. The fine Salón de las Coronas is one of several sumptuous spaces, while the highlight is the Galería Dorada, a suite of decorated rooms culminating in a tiled floor depicting the world composed of the four elements.
Park
La Albufera is a huge freshwater lagoon separated from the sea by a narrow strip of pine-forested dunes. It's legendary for the rice that's grown here. It's also an important dune and wetland ecosystem and much of the area is covered by this park. The zone is great for birdwatching: around 90 species regularly nest here and more than 250 others use it as a migratory staging post. The park has an interpretation centre in the middle of the region.
Viewpoint
Though no secret, this viewpoint – a boat dock with jetties extending into the principal lagoon of the Albufera – is still a magical place. It's a handy birdwatching spot, but comes into its own at sunset, when it's gloriously romantic, with herons slowly flapping against the reddening sky. You can take boat trips from here. Bus 25 to El Palmar stops right here.
Castle
Sagunto's castle is majestically located, with stone walls girdling a twin hilltop for almost 1km. Its seven rambling, mostly ruinous sections each speak of a different period in Sagunto’s history. The fortress could do with a bit of care and is currently best for a stroll among the ruins, appreciating the magnificent vistas along the coast, rather than gaining a detailed understanding of its long, long history. Don't expect interpretative panels, but the downloadable Tour Sagunto app has audio-guide content.
Nature Reserve
This interpretation centre is the gateway to a sizeable lagoon and has some information on the park ecosystem, a short walking path, a tower you can climb for views and a birdwatching hide. It's on the left just after you turn off to El Palmar from the main CV500.
Tunnel
Within the intestines of Plaza Albornoz is a network of interlinked cellars, once used as storerooms, winemaking bodegas and, during strife, hideouts. They date back to Moorish times. Guided visits take you down to this intriguing subterranean world.
Beach
Playa de Gandia, 6km from the centre, is a long, broad beach of fine sand, groomed daily by a fleet of tractors. It’s a popular resort with a good summer and weekend scene. It's easily reached from the centre by bus.
Tower
This watchtower, part of the original Moorish fortifications though later extensively modified by Christians in the 15th century, looms over the principal entrance to the old town. Climb up for the views and a museum on the history of Requena. The ticket also gives you access to the tunnels.
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