Visiting the City of Valencia, Spain
Valencia and the Costa Blanca: A Blend of History, Culture, and Natural Beauty
Valencia, the birthplace of paella, has a rich history that stretches back centuries. The city, which was mostly spared from recent floods due to the diversion of the Turia River in 1957, now stands as a testament to resilience and innovation. However, on October 29, 2024, Valencia experienced the worst flash flooding in the country's history, resulting in the tragic loss of over 232 lives.
Just a two-hour drive from Valencia city lies the Costa Blanca, a stunning 120-mile stretch along the Mediterranean Sea within the autonomous community of Valencia. This picturesque coastline is home to a variety of charming towns, each with its unique charm.
One such town is Benidorm, a popular resort town known for its vibrant nightlife, sandy beaches, and welcoming atmosphere. Benidorm has made a significant effort to ensure its facilities are accessible to all, making it a popular destination for tourists with mobility needs. The town is a favourite among tourists from the UK, Ireland, Norway, Belgium, and "snowbirds" who spend the entire winter.
For food lovers, Benidorm offers a variety of culinary delights. Helados Sirvent, a local ice cream parlour, has been serving its original recipe cream since 1950. Marisquería Posada del Mar offers excellent fried fish, octopus, and squid, and their "Arroz a Banda" rivals the best paella.
A short drive away from Benidorm lies the coastal town of Villajoyosa, known for its brightly coloured buildings, ocean breezes, and over two miles of beaches. This charming town is also home to Valor Chocolates, where freshly made churros and hot chocolate can be enjoyed.
Another must-visit destination is Alicante, a charismatic port city with a long history, evidence of a tumultuous past, and a growing expat community. The Central Market of Alicante houses over 290 stalls, while Bar Aki Pikamos Alicante serves garlicky perfection in the form of patatas bravas.
For those interested in learning more about local cuisine, Hestia Lucentum in Alicante offers cooking courses to learn how to make tapas and Alicante rice. Nou Manolin Piripi Pópuli, an upscale restaurant, offers a vast restaurant, one of the best wine cellars in Spain, and a tapas bar frequented by culinary luminaries.
A visit to Valencia would not be complete without experiencing the authentic paella. Toni Montoliu, a paella expert, offers an authentic paella experience at La Barraca de Toni Montoliu in Meliana, near Valencia, where participants can help cook massive paella pans over a wood fire. Valencia Club Cocina also offers cooking classes for authentic paella in Valencia city.
The region's cultural heritage is on full display during the annual Las Fallas festival, which originated in the 15th century in Valencia. This festival includes the creation and burning of large, artistic sculptures called fallas, made from materials such as papier-mâché, wax, cork, and wood. The festival culminates in a week-long series of events, including parades, flower offerings, daily pyrotechnics, and the grand finale called the Cremà, when all the fallas are set ablaze except for the spared ninots.
El Castell de Guadalest, a historic fortress built in the 11th century during Moorish rule, is located about 15 miles west of Benidorm and offers stunning views of the valley, the super-blue waters of the reservoir, and the village below.
Altea, a historic town on a hill, offers a maze of whitewashed cobblestone streets, art galleries, boutique hotels, and a protected bay with mild weather year-round. La Capella Restaurant in Altea offers Mediterranean food and a view of the bay.
The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia, designed by Santiago Calatrava, houses attractions like the Oceanogràfic and Hemisfèric, Europe's largest aquarium. This architectural marvel is a testament to Valencia's commitment to innovation and progress.
In conclusion, Valencia and the Costa Blanca offer a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that makes them an ideal destination for travellers seeking an unforgettable experience. From the authentic paella to the vibrant Las Fallas festival, there is something for everyone in this stunning region.
- To complement the food-and-drink offerings in Benidorm, one can also explore home-and-garden delights by visiting Valor Chocolates in Villajoyosa, known for its freshly made churros and hot chocolate.
- For travelers seeking education and self-development, Hestia Lucentum in Alicante offers cooking courses to learn how to make traditional Spanish tapas and Alicante rice, providing a unique insight into the region's lifestyle.
