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© Agència Valenciana del Turisme, 2015 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 1 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 2

Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. Valencia. 39° 27’ 17.82” N 0° 21’ 10.88” W 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 3

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04 The Region of Valencia 06 Emotion and leisure 12 Several destinations, just one heartbeat 22 The beach is life 26 Cities with their own style 40 Diverse and plural 42 Visions 52 Nature 70 Culture 86 Gastronomy 98 People who love festivals 106 Sports 114 Adventure 118 Health 120 Shopping 124 The night 128 Tourism portal for the Region of Valencia 130 Tourist Info Network 133 Practical information 136 Tourist map 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 4

Lonja. Valencia. 39° 28’ 28.09” N 0° 22’ 41.45” W

This is an inviting town that loves its traditions and has been open to tourism for decades. In the Region of Valencia, receiving the traveller is a duty of courtesy that has become a profession, carried out with an informal style.

Like a surprising, large and diverse interior, in the areas that border the Region of Valencia offers to its kaleidoscope, the Region of Valencia Aragón and Castilla-la Mancha. visitors. For thousands of years, is spread along the shore of the Changing and renewed, full of expansive and cordial people, hard- Spanish Mediterranean. It is an charming sites, the Region of working and festival-loving, attentive to inviting and sunny territory with Valencia hopes to capture the agriculture, industry and commerce, open and active people. It is a land traveller’s senses. have lived between the generous soil that, bordering the sea for over 500 Costa Blanca, Benidorm, València Terra i and a blue sky that stays clear most of kilometres, changes its landscape Mar, Castellón Mediterráneo and the year. This is the famous land of rice and becomes mountainous in the Valencia. These are the tourist areas that and the fertile orange tree orchards. But 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 5

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Promenade of la Explanada. Alicante. El Fadrí Tower. Castellón de la Plana. 39° 28’ 28.09” N 0° 22’ 41.45” W 39° 59’ 10.01” N 0° 2’ 14.93” W

it is also the land of olive oil and wine, as wish, in this land the tourists soon well as fruit and almond trees that look become travellers; and at once they out to the sea. become a guest that is treated as if they Surprises are still possible in the Region were in their own home. In the Region of Valencia. Here, discovering the of Valencia, the experience of travelling landscape is an adventure that turns the is always a safe bet. Rock fortresses and trip into an unforgettable personal thermal springs, solitude and jubilation, experience. As inviting as they are lovers sea and mountain, sun and soil: the of their own traditions and roots, the ranges of colours and tastes are always Valencian people have been open to open in the four tourist areas of the tourism for decades, a duty of courtesy Region of Valencia. Because this is a land that has become a profession carried of contrasts, of flavours and aromas, of out with affection and an informal style. complementary and varied places. It does not matter where we go. From north to south, going wherever they Benidorm. 38° 32’ 3.14” N 0° 7’ 49.47” W 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 6

The roar of motors or the silent Emotion advance of the prow on the waves. Tight sails or vibrating accelerations. In the Region of Valencia, the main and leisure sporting events, media spectacles that summon thousands of people are a phenomenon of our century that serve to attract thousands of tourists as well as to generate dynamics that spread 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 7

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Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. 39° 27’ 23.13” N 0° 21’ 12,61”W

our reality in a globalised world. worldwide dissemination of the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias to Thousands of people have visited the milestones of Valencian tourism. Terra Mítica, from the Oceanogràfic to Region of Valencia because of these But the Region of Valencia has many the Circuito de Velocidad Ricardo large events. other attractions and incentives. They Tormo in Cheste, each year the The America’s Cup, the Castelló Golf are the large infrastructures of leisure, Valencian lands offer unexpected Masters that took place in Castellón culture and sports that are capable of incentives. and the start of the Volvo Ocean Race attracting thousands of visitors and from Alicante have been specific turning the traveller’s experience into events which have led to the an unforgettable adventure. From the 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 8

Circuit Ricardo Tormo. 39° 29’ 5.34” N 0° 37’ 34.51” W Club

Excitement in Cheste

The first Valencian commitment to Comunitat Valenciana. The annual and fields at Cheste to see its stars. highly competitive events took circuit of world motorcycle racing, But the Cheste Circuit, after these place at the Cheste Circuit. with all the famous Spanish racers, autumn events, is still active. For over Dedicated to the great Valencian close its long run in Cheste every 300 days a year there are training, champion Ricardo Tormo, each year. Thousands of fans come from all trials, techniques, rehearsals, concerts autumn it is the setting for the final over Spain and liven up the town’s and every type of activity. trial of the World Motorcycle Racing streets and even Valencia. Over Championship: the Gran Premio de la 100,000 spectators meet in the stands 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 9

Club de Golf Ifach. Benissa. Alicante. 38° 41’ 15.04” N 0° 6’ 16.15” E

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Golf and tennis

The international golf and tennis demands. In 2008, the Castelló Masters This new sports form is an important elites met on the courses and courts tournament brought together, near the event aimed at transmitting the external of the Region of Valencia to sea, not only Sergio García, who started image of the Region of Valencia. The participate in the tournaments his sports career there, but also the best exclusive tennis circuit also is made up reserved for the great stars. The Spanish and European figures of the of Rotterdam, Dubai, Acapulco, informative impact that these events moment. Memphis, Barcelona, Washington, had the world over highlights the The Agora of the Ciudad de las Artes Peking, Tokyo and Basel, among other attractiveness of a golf course network y las Ciencias of Valencia hosted the cities. where travellers can satisfy their highest 500 ATP tennis tournament, since 2009. 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 10

Veles e Vents. Valencia Port. 39° 27’ 36.19” N 0° 19’ 25.20” W Biop

Sails and winds

Between 2003 and 2010, the old dock best sporting and leisure infrastructures Alicante to compete in the Volvo of the Valencian port was the setting to house every kind of competition, Ocean Race. for the 32nd and 33rd edition of the regatta and nautical event. The weather Alicante is home to the Volvo Ocean America’s Cup, the oldest sports conditions are excellent for nautical Race Museum. This is the first museum competition in the world and the most sports and its strategic location has to offer visitors the chance to recreate prestigious among nautical sports. The turned the Marina Real Juan Carlos I of the extreme challenge faced by the port of Valencia changed, the building Valencia into a benchmark in the crews aboard the boats participating in Veles e Vents was created, which is now European Mediterranean. the Volvo Ocean Race, an exceptional a new reference point in the city. In October 2008, the world’s most round the world yacht race. Valencia is opened to the sea with the intrepid navigators left the port of 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 11

Bioparc. Valencia. 39° 28’ 40.57” N 0° 24’ 41.80” W

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Animals and myths from ancient times

Valencia has two facilities dedicated spectators can closely observe, with through intrepid installations of risk to land and sea wildlife that are complete safety, the life of dozens of and adventure. The most exciting roller leaders in Europe. They are the species of African wildlife. Provided coasters, the most intrepid and daring L'Oceanogràfic and the Bioparc. with great freedom and the most slides imaginable, compete with its The first, which is part of the Ciudad de favourable living conditions, elephants, visitors’ emotions. But in the Region of las Artes y las Ciencias, is one of the giraffes, rhinoceros, lions and every Valencia there are other many theme largest aquariums of marine water in kind of animal from the savannah parks, some of them dedicated to the world, where hundreds of species delight children and adults. water games. They are leisure coexist in five large circular pools. Each In Benidorm, in a place from where infrastructures that each year attract day there are several performances the city and all the bay can be seen, thousands of visitors to the Valencian with dolphins. The Bioparc entails the there is a large theme park, Terra tourist spots. adaptation of the most refined Mítica, which relives the myths of techniques that exist so that the ancient Greece, Rome and Egypt 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 12

Benidorm Beach. 38° 32’ 8.44” N 0° 7’ 19.69” W Several destinations, one heartbeat

Peñíscola. 40° 21’ 44.07” N 0° 24’ 13.49” E 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 13

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San Pío V Fine Arts Museum of Valencia. 39° 28’ 45.54” N 0° 22’ 16.15” W

Several brands make up the five settings with their own well- same beat, the five areas, the five presence of Valencian tourism in defined personality, which beat in brands appear with their own Spain, in Europe and in the world: unison in service of the proverbial personality, separately, thanks to their Costa Blanca, Benidorm, València Terra hospitality and courtesy of all the particular charms. i Mar, Castellón Mediterráneo and Valencian lands. Being daughters of Valencia refer to five destinations, to the same region and answering to the

Xàbia. 38° 47' 38.52" N 0° 10' 33.43" E 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 14

Benissa. 38° 43' 19.97" N 0° 11' 17.93" E

Costa Blanca

Costa Blanca, the White Coast, houses are made to contrast with the of the Costa Blanca still attracts because of the whitewash of the deep blue of the sea. From Dénia, in travellers from the Nordic countries as fishermen’s old houses. Costa the north of the province, to Pilar de if they were migrating birds. Few Blanca because of the almond tree la Horadada, in the south, a series of cloudy days, and a blue that makes blossoms that appear on the cliffs beaches and bays, of cliffs and inlets the sky here different from anywhere and because of the white windmills. offer the most varied landscape in a else, invite one to the simple life, to It is the white of Greece, of Sicily and climate that is always ideal. Winters the observation of the sea, to walks Ibiza; the white of a latitude where are warm and sunny. The old prestige and excursions. There are charming 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 15

Nuestra Señora del Consuelo Church. Altea. 38° 35’ 55.66” N 0° 3’ 6.05” W

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“We see from far away, increasingly distant, the blue dome. The blue dome is exclusively of the Kingdom of Valencia”. (Azorín)

valleys, fishing boats that return at pass the winter season. La Granadella, Dehesa de Campoamor and Pilar de la sundown with a silvery load and a Teulada-Moraira, Calpe, Dénia, Xàbia, Horadada. The winter sun, the way of life where work and festivities Benissa, L’Olla d’Altea, L’Alfàs del Pi, La summer sea. The prestige of a sweet wisely complement each other. Vila Joiosa, El Campello, Sant Joan, etc. life protected from the stress of the Alicante is the capital of the province. They have all won tourism prestige big cities. To the north are the cliffs of the and top awards for best service. South Marina, with solitary inlets and ports of the capital are Santa Pola and Elx, where the sailboats drop anchor to Guardamar del Segura, Torrevieja, La 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 16

LevanteLevante Beach. Beach. Benidorm. Benidorm. 38° 38° 32' 32' 4.09" 4.09" N N 0° 0° 7' 7' 5.79" 5.79" W W

The prestige of Benidorm

Everything the most capricious capital of Mediterranean tourism, not however, it is a large city full of tourist could want is here. just Spanish, but European as well. In skyscrapers which reminds one of a This is the paradise city of those who the 1950s, Benidorm was still a small beachside Manhattan. In less than six are seeking variety, exoticism, fishing and farming town, linked twice decades, Benidorm has become in a multiculturalism and the unusual, as an a day to the capital by a bus service. tourism empire, with over 40,000 hotel accessory, of course, to the prime Located at the foot of the Serra Gelada rooms –more capacity than in many attraction of the sun, sea and beach. natural park, it had no more than 3,000 European countries- and a regulated This is Benidorm, which has been residents when it became the pioneer offer of over 20,000 rooms in rented called “the city that never sleeps”, the city of Spanish tourism. Today, apartments. Perhaps Benidorm began 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 17

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Poniente Beach. Benidorm. 38° 32' 0.20" N 0° 9' 18.10" W

as the favourite tourist spot of Madrid, spot of the German and British middle amount of tourists that Benidorm but now it is a European benchmark class, of Nordic and Dutch tourists who receives each year, with a floating with its own personality and wanted sun and beach. The most population of up to 400,000 people, it renowned brand in the world of travel prestigious hotel chains have can be deduced that the range of and summer vacations, which established themselves in the territory. Benidorm’s attractions is practically generates loyalty that goes beyond Today there are over 140 hotels, some infinite. the markets’ contingencies. This located in high-rises that beat the coastal city in the province of Alicante height records of Spain. From those soon became the favourite vacation magnitudes and from the great 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 18

Plaza de la Trinidad. Xàtiva 38° 59' 22.93" N 0° 31' 11.86" W El S

València Terra i Mar

The brand València Terra i Mar and agricultural activity where the landscape, compete in beauty and covers a tourism variety of a orange tree orchards dominate. But attractions with Ontinyent and province with at least two the interior is also intense and varied, Bocairent, cities where there still exists different and complementary mountainous and with forests that a labyrinth from Moorish times. Xàtiva landscapes. The sea, with beautiful one must also associate with the is a historical city, the city of the Borja beaches, announces a coast with Valencian landscape. Ayora and family, a family of popes and nobility intense tourism, as well as commercial Requena, part of that mountainous that gave glory to the Kingdom of 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 19

El Saler Beach. Valencia. 39° 21’ 42” N 0° 18’ 59” W

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Valencia. La Ribera del Xúquer is the hides peaceful and beautiful villages arch, with all its classic values. But in fertile cradle of orange trees; the river with white country houses. On the the south it is important to highlight flows into Cullera, close to the coast is Sagunt, with all the prestige of the presence of two cities with Albufera, which irrigates the old rice its Roman history and traces of a tradition, Gandia and Oliva, full of fields of Valencia. To the north of powerful past. The capital, Valencia, history and prestige and with well- Turia’s banks, the Serranos region sits at the centre of the province’s maintained beaches.

Júcar River. Cortes de Pallás. Valencia. 39° 14' 22.86" N 0° 59' 7.29" W 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 20

Morella. Castellón. 40° 36' 44.07" N 0° 5' 46.69" W

Castellón

Castellón where citrus fruits have tourism, where many residents from Oropesa del Mar and Benicàssim, with been cultivated for over a century in Aragón appear. The isthmus of lovely beaches, announce the city of stately orchards. Vila-real, Borriana, Peñíscola, with the castle of Pope Castellón de la Plana. During the Nules, Almenara, Moncofa... These are Luna, receives an intense and well- 1920s, Benicàssim became the place ancient cities with solid agricultural developed tourism. To the south are for families from Castellón de la Plana prestige, which look out to the sea. To Alcalà de Xivert - Alcossebre and to spend the summer. But, the interior the north, Vinaròs and Benicarló are Torreblanca, where the Serra d’Irta of Castellón holds very interesting cities with tradition. They have known natural park becomes a beautiful attractions for the traveller. El how to develop serene and efficient landscape overlooking the sea. Maestrazgo rises up towards the pine 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 21

Basílica de Lledó. Castellón de la Plana. 40° 57' 17.46" N 0° 16' 40.05" E

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forest of Teruel and has a unique attractiveness in Morella. Sant Mateu and Albocàsser, Vilafamés and l’Alcora, Segorbe and La Vall d’Uixó hold treasures in their landscapes, secluded squares, medieval churches and distinguished modern art museums. 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 22

Les Devesses Beach. Dénia. 38° 52' 17.97" N 0° 0' 33.99" W

The duality of the Valencian The beach is life landscape causes the long sandy beaches to alternate with cliff landscapes, even abrupt ones, where small coves become jewels of limited access and crystal-clear waters. The coast of the Region of Valencia has magnificent beaches: extensive dune chains, where the characteristic flora has been conserved and sandy areas announce areas with hawthorn and landscapes of reeds and wetlands. The 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 23

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good weather, facilities, quality services south in Valencia, Canet d’En with which the cities tend to the and best accessibility conditions make Berenguer, Sagunt, Alboraya and bathers in them. From morning to the Region of Valencia’s beaches the Malva-rosa; Cullera, Oliva and Gandia; in night, there is the beach, alive and all- ideal place for anyone who wants a the province of Alicante, Dénia and embracing. The beach is sun, it is relaxed summer under the sun. Xilxes Xàbia, Altea, Benidorm, Sant Joan, Elx bathing in warm and transparent in Castellón; El Saler, next to Valencia; and Torrevieja... It would be unfair to waters. But in this part of the world it and Guardamar del Segura and Santa make a list. Beaches with fine and can be a lot more. In the Region of Pola in Alicante are among the beaches delicate sand, and also round pebble Valencia there are beaches that are with the best-conserved flora in their beaches; they are all pleasant. There are lighted at night, like soccer stadiums. dunes. But next to them are Benicarló over one hundred high-quality beaches This way, the tourist can make the most and Oropesa del Mar, Benicàssim and with sandy areas recognised each year of them or get the best ratio with Peñíscola, Nules and Almenara. Farther for their natural charm and for the care nature that is sought in the edge of 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 24

land and sea. The beach is part of the sports as well as bathing areas the sun for dozens of families with vacation city; in reality, it is the result of accessible to persons with reduced colourful sunshades. As well as the beat of a population that looks out mobility, the Valencian beaches boast deserted beaches where solitude is to its sea, it relates to it in the strip of of responding to bathers’ demands. predominant and nudism is practiced: sand and in the process, urbanises it, The towns strive each year to take all of this, in an orderly variety, is furnishes it and tames it. With large better care of their beaches: providing possible on the coast of the Region of sunshades and loungers, showers, foot them with more comforts for the users. Valencia. washers and rubbish bins, very careful The blue European flags are the supervision, healthcare posts and assets acknowledgement of that effort. that include reserved areas for playing Populated beaches for relaxing under 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 25

Vinaròs El Fortí Benicarló El Morrongo / La Caracola Peñíscola Nord Alcalà de Xivert-Alcossebre Carregador / La Romana / Les Fonts Manyetes / Moro / L’Estany

Torreblanca Nord / Torrenostra

Oropesa del Mar Morro de Gos / La Conxa / Platgetes de Bellver

Benicàssim Voramar / L’Almadrava / La Torre de Sant Vicent - Torreó Els Terrers / Heliòpolis Castellón de la Plana Gurugú / El Pinar

Borriana L’Arenal

Nules Nules

Moncofa Masbó / Grao Illes Columbretes

Xilxes Les Cases / Cerezo Almenara Casablanca

Canet d’En Berenguer Racó de La Mar Sagunt L’Almardà / El Port de Sagunt Puçol Puçol El Puig Playa-Puig La Pobla de Farnals Puebla de Farnals Alboraya Port Saplaya Valencia Arenas - Cabanyal La Malva-rosa Pinedo L’Arbre del Gos MEDITERRANEAN SEA El Saler

La Devesa

Sueca El Perellonet / El Perelló Mareny de Vilxes / Les Palmeretes

Cullera El Dosser / El Far / L’Illa - Los Olivos El Racó / Sant Antoni

Tavernes de la Valldigna Tavernes de la Valldigna / La Goleta Xeraco Xeraco Gandia Playa Nord Bellreguard Bellreguard Miramar Miramar Piles Piles

Oliva Terranova / Pau-Pi / L´Aigua Blanca

Dénia Les Deveses / Les Marines / Les Bovetes Les Rotes / Marineta Cassiana / Punta del Raset

Xàbia La Grava / L´Arenal / La Granadella

Teulada-Moraira El Portet / L’Ampolla / Les Platgetes Benissa Cala Fustera Calp La Fossa / Port Mauri Altea El Cantal Roig / L’Arenal-Bol L’Alfàs del Pi L’Olla / La Roda / Cap Blanc Benidorm El Raco de L´Albir

Finestrat Llevant / El Mal Pas / Poniente

La Villa Joiosa La Cala

Centre / El Paradís El Campello El Carrer de la Mar / Mutxavista

Alicante Sant Joan / El Postiguet / Saladar / Albufereta

Elx L` Altet / La Marina / Les Pesqueres - El Rebollo Els Arenals del Sol

Playa Lisa / Llevant / El Varador Santa Pola Tamarit / Calas del Este Tabarca La Marina / Les Pesquers - Rebollo

Guardamar del Segura Centre / La Roqueta / Els Vivers / Moncaio

Torrevieja Torrelamata / Los Locos / El Cura Los Náufragos-Acequión / La Mata Orihuela Flamenca / La Zenia / Campoamor / Cabo Roig Mil Palmeras / Cala Capitán / Barranco Rubio

Pilar de la Horadada Jesuitas-Cala Rincón / El Puerto / Las Villas-Higuericas / Conde 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:12 Página 26

Central Market. Valencia. 39° 28’ 23.82” N 0° 22’ 42.06”W Pala

Cities with their own style

Port of Alicante. 38° 20’ 21.48” N 0° 28’ 44.48” W Espai 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 27

Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía. 39° 27’ 37.74” N 0° 21’ 20.57” W

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Espai d’Art Contemporani. Castellón de la Plana. 39° 58’ 57.52” N 0° 1’ 56.18” W 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 28

Marqués de Dos Aguas Palace. Valencia. 39° 28’ 21.50” N 0° 22’ 28.53” W

Valencia

The songs, the verses, the passionate large secrets. Permanently blue skies, Valencia, even if it has been done with proclamations of journalism and fertile ground; orchards and orange passionate affection. However, besides novels have made the city of trees that are both exuberant and rich. everything that has been written, Valencia, and all of this region, a land Valencia makes its trip through history Valencia holds pleasant surprises for the of flowers and light. But there is much accompanied by these compliments new city travellers; for the tourist more. In the last years, Valencia is a city and definitions, and even by more without a fixed calendar and without that has been rediscovered by tourists flattering ones. They are not completely any rush; for whoever appreciates who want to be travellers. This city has clichés, nor are they distorted legends; finding the middle road between new and emerging charms for those they have a lot of truth because the culture and enriching leisure. Valencia who are looking to city tourism for the landscape and weather favour has two thousand long years of history. incentives of rediscovering small and everything that has been written about A Roman settlement at the shores of 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 29

Cathedral and Miguelete. Valencia. 39° 28’ 33.62” N 0° 22’ 31.18” W

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the Turia river. After that, a Visigothic Joaquín Sorolla. Valencia is the city of styles from the art history textbooks, and Muslim city, Cid Campeador who silk and grain, of port and artisan from Romanesque to Modernism, with conquers and loses it, and Jaime de workshops. Furniture and clothes, a balance that does not overwhelm and Aragón, who takes it, falls in love with swords and ceramics. Valencia is a that ends up winning the heart of the everything he sees and founds on this crossroads and at the same time, with visitor. Sarcastic and fun-loving people ground a new Christian kingdom, an eternal vocation of being Castilla’s live here, but also very hard-working associated from that moment on, with port in the Mediterranean. All these people; the executive that works by day no interruption, to the Aragón Crown characteristics are alive in its streets and will make you the best paella at night, and to the Spain that would come later. squares, even after all this time. The without batting an eye, lighting a fire in A city linked to the Borja, Vives and Velluters and Carmen neighbourhoods, the middle of the street during the Centelles families; city of trades and the twisted roads of the Moors with Fallas festival. Gothic style in the Micalet guilds, of gentlemen with ruffs and of Christian trade names; the route that and baroque in Santa Catalina, the city’s honest artisan professionals. City of the Luis Vives evokes with his students. City two most famous towers. In the young Azorín and young Ramón y Cajal. of Moors and Jews, of old and new Cathedral, a cimborio (octagonal dome) Of Llorente, Blasco Ibáñez, Benlliure and Christians, Valencia now shows all the that becomes transparent in alabaster 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 30

Pala

“Valencia, open city, is a land so propitious for the acclimatization of trees, as well as for men and cultures”. (José Ombuena)

Lonja. Valencia. The Water Court. Door of the Apostles. Valencia. 39° 28’ 27.46” N 0° 22’ 42.22” W 39° 28’ 34.00” N 0° 22’ 31.66” W

and a lecture room where the Holy of the 19th century and proudly shows tapas and the semi-secret corners. The Chalice is kept. And the tomb of Ausías the mosaics of the Mercado de Colón Borja family walked through here. This March, the Patriarch of the Valencian (Columbus Market) and Estación del was the birthplace of Saint Vicente language. Nights and days, wars and Norte (North Train Station). In front of Ferrer and the cloistered convent for centuries: Valencia. With its unique the age-old Lonja (Silk Exchange) is the Sister Isabel de Villena. Olive and cypress rarities: it has dedicated almost half of Mercado Central (Central Market), trees. A Mediterranean city, willing to its territory to a natural park named La vibrant with colours and aromas, play with costumes and festivals. On Albufera and has two riverbeds for the sensual and fresh; so that we know, some days it feels classic and on others same dry river, after having turned its from the voices of the vendors, that it presents a spontaneous and natural old riverbed into an urban park (ten there’s no town or life without the atmosphere, without ever losing the kilometres long) that now makes up the hustle and bustle of vegetables, fruits composure of its roots. This city, at the city’s unusual landscape. Valencia is the and fish. It is a city for the pleasure of end of the 20th century, dedicated its city that became modernist at the end living, for chatting in the square; for new image to Santiago Calatrava, one 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 31

Palau de la Música. Valencia. 39° 27’ 58.62” N 0° 21’ 42.59” W

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of its favourite sons. The Ciudad de las Valencia, since then, changes each year, attention to the earth speak more of Artes y las Ciencias was the dynamic adapting and transforming. It looks for gardening than of agriculture; the element of an urban change that was sporting events, unprecedented irrigation ditches reach every plot of accompanied by a change in festivals, and ambitious challenges. It land through a capillary system that has motivations, ambitions and projects. knows it is not easy to be Spain’s third been regulated by the Tribunal de las There is a new Valencia shaped by the city; but its spectacular change has Aguas (Water Court) for thousands of Palacio de Congresos (Convention made it the city with the largest hotel years. White towns extend to the north Centre), a very important International increase in Spain and with the greatest and west of the great city. Fair, the IVAM (Valencian Modern Art attraction for tourists. On the city’s Institute), Palau de la Música (Music outskirts, the green blanket of orchards, Palace) and Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía splashed with white farmhouses and (Art Museum). The world has some solitary adobe houses. The acknowledged this transformation and rectilinear crops and the delicate 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 32

Port of Alicante. 38° 20’ 21.48” N 0° 28’ 44.48” W

Alicante, city of sea

One will rarely find in a city such an of a tourism city par excellence. have registered more residents of intense relation and integration Phoenicians, Greeks, Iberians, Romans, foreign origin than nationals for years. between the city and its sea. Unlike Arabs, etc. All the people who have It has been written that winter has a Valencia and Castellón de la Plana, dared to sail the Mediterranean have rendezvous and takes refuge in which were located in the orchards passed through this natural shelter, Alicante. Although Vicente Ramos but away from the beach and the where now, so many centuries later, wrote that this is a city pierced by the ports of Grao, Alicante originated next one could say that the warriors, never Mediterranean, Gabriel Miró spoke of to the sea, in a perfect location of completely worn out, come to find the “serenity of a blue sky, always blue” nature and landscape where the shelter from modern times. Alicante, and of a “golden sun, strong, Benacantil mountain offers inhabitants and many towns in its province, in fact, generous”. In fact, the former the possibility of finding shelter next to have a very high percentage of Lucentum (ancient predecessor of a good natural port. These features, residents from other regions of Spain Alicante) has awakened the sensitivity with time, would give the entire city a and from all of Europe. Over a hundred of writers, travellers and poets because marine nature and would end up nationalities have been recorded in here, the calmness of the sea and the influencing the open and friendly spirit some cities of Alicante, some of which serene architecture of the palm tree 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 33

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“Serenity of the blue sky, always blue, a golden sun, strong, generous”. (Gabriel Miró)

are combined and turned into enviable the city’s reason for existing, from monastery of Santa Faz, site of an traveller service, quality of life and where one can see an impressive annual procession for the citizens of service professionalism. Generous in marine and urban landscape. Alicante. A short distance away, the festivals and traditions, Alicante is Museums and churches, such as Santa beach of Sant Joan d’Alacant is the reborn each year on the Sant Joan María in the old quarter, are landmarks summer vacation centre of Alicante, a holiday, when it creates and burns of a pleasant walk through the city. place of very effective development bonfires in the midst of popular street The co-cathedral of San Nicolás, patron where hotels, spas and first-rate golf celebrations and thunderous saint of Alicante, makes up the courses are brought together. pyrotechnics by day and by night. historical centre, along with the City Alicante is enlivened by tourism in Hall. Although the entire coast is both the peaceful winter and intense beautiful, Cabo de Huertas deserves a summer. The traveller must walk down visit for its marine landscape. On the the Explanada, the esplanade where outskirts of Alicante, each day the everything and everyone can be island of Tabarca calls hundreds of found, and go to Santa Bárbara Castle, travellers. But it is also nice to go to the 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 34

Cathedral and El Fadrí. Castellón de la Plana. 39° 59’ 10.01” N 0° 2’ 14.93” W

Surprising Castellón de la Plana

Castellón de la Plana is the capital established around the fortified hill highlight the change experienced by of the province with the same where today is found the Magdalena the city. Because from being a city name. Surrounded by extensive Hermitage, to move to the plain and with agricultural features it has green plains, that which in the past found a new town. This community turned to urban activities and was a hidden city has become in a peregrination is still remembered determined expansion, to a powerful few years a dynamic and prosperous each year: it is the popular Romería and courageous growth in urban city, full of charm for the visitor. de les Canyes, in which the residents aspects. Always in relation to Well balanced, Castellón de la Plana go up to the original hermitage and controversy, innovation and tradition divides its influences among recall their ancient roots. The very act have clashed in the city that, despite agriculture, heavy industry and a of this pilgrimage, the “romería”, is the great changes, continues services sector in which the travelle r characteristic of numerous festivals, maintaining features of a life that was finds, besides golf, top-level facilities. devotions and traditions of the provincial and tranquil. Castellón de la Plana’s birth certificate province of Castellón. Castellón de la Plana is always is dated 1251, when King Jaime I The idea of a village in motion has pleasantly surprising. The Greenwich authorised the primitive village, been used in modern times to meridian and the 40th parallel 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 35

Planetarium. Castellón de la Plana. 39° 58’ 43.41” N 0° 1’ 21.16” E

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“Castellón is located on a plain, a league from the sea. The amenity and warmth of its district, the beautiful streets and excellent buildings place it among the most distinguished towns of the Kingdom.” (Antonio José Cavanilles)

intersect in the city. The Planetarium, Sunday of Lent to recall the strip of land of the marjalería located near the sea, recalls this and peregrination of the residents. (wetlands) is an unbeatable for years it has been a milestone in Returning from the pilgrimage, the vegetable garden, splashed with rural the city’s capacity for leisure time and Gaiates, monumental floats of light houses for spending the summer culture. Castelló Cultural is a constant and colour are paraded, which move holidays. But, in a nearby radius, the dynamising factor in the field of fine like triumphant carriages. In the visitor will find the site of the Desert arts and shows: the Teatro Principal, historical centre, the Plaza Mayor is de les Palmes, a protected natural the Museo de Bellas Artes, l’Espai the heart of the city: there the City park, and the Columbretes Islands, d’Art Contemporani and the Hall, the Central Market and the Santa the only islands of the Region of Auditoriums and Convention Centres María co-cathedral meet. Valencia, also protected, as a natural of Castellón de la Plana and Peñ íscola Castellón de la Plana is surrounded park and marine reserve. move together in search of by agriculture that provides pleasant complementary cultural activities. and noble landscapes, associated The annual festivals of the city are with the cultivation of orange trees. famous, which take place on the third Between the city and the sea, the 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 36

Convention Centre. Valencia. 39° 29’ 46.11” N 0° 24’ 5.50”W

Business, conventions and fairs

A balanced network of fairs, transformation of those already operations that were erected in the auditoriums and convention centres existing have left the four Valencian 1960’s. With 1,000,000 visitors annually has made the Region of Valencia an tourism areas prepared to tend to any and 10,000 exhibitors in the 60 ideal place to hold conventions, demand in the commercial field and different shows that it organises, the conferences and professional or to be leaders in convention tourism. institution has become a tool at the commercial meetings on the The most veteran institution, the Feria service of the modern economy. The national and international level. In Valencia (trade fair grounds), current facilities, which occupy the last years, the construction of new originated in 1917, has recently fourteen pavilions and a large Forum facilities and the radical renewed and expanded the centre of suitable for celebrations and 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 37

Valencia Trade Fair. 39° 30’ 13.11” N 0° 25’ 43.72”W

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conferences, provide all types of forums suitable for all types of Norman Foster. Effective and practical, possibilities: up to 300,000 square seminars, technical and professions the premises provide all types of metres of useful surface area can be meetings. Besides the Palau de la facilities while offering the user the occupied simultaneously. A leader in Música, the Ciudad de las Artes y las best equipment for the organisation the number of events, exhibition area Ciencias, the two universities and of all types of events. The modern and customer service, Feria Valencia is other institutions, Valencia has, since professional installations with which offered as a profitable channel for 1998, the Palacio de Congresos the three capitals of the Region of generating business. (convention centre), a building Valencia are equipped make it an The city of Valencia, moreover, has designed by the British architect ideal place for the venue of national 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 38

Auditorium and Convention Centre of Castellón de la Plana. 39° 59’ 29.95” N 0° 1’ 47.06” W

and international conventions and surface area. In its nine rooms of among those prepared for seminar fairs. The new premises and its hotel diverse capacity, it offers the latest and convention tourism. Surrounded capacity make the Region of Valencia technologies at the service of all types by green zones, in a beautiful setting, an ideal place for all types of of events. The largest room has more the institution has an auditorium with professional meetings. than 600 seats, and all the facilities capacity for 1,200 persons and The Palacio de Congresos of Alicante have the latest technologies. different rooms, with flexible use for is a building with four stories and L’Auditori i Palau de Congressos of holding conferences as well as more than 8,000 square metres of Castellón de la Plana placed the city concerts. It has the Magic Box, a multi- 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 39

Convention Centre. Peñíscola. 40° 21’ 40.66” N 0° 24’ 0.40” E

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purpose room capable of holding 500 Palau de Congressos of Peñíscola, and upper hall of dimensions diners. The 10 meeting rooms have located in this beautiful Castellón appropriate for functionality and for capacities that vary from 50 to 125 province, next to the sea. possibilities and multiple uses. people. In a total area of 2,025 square Thanks to a design as effective as it is metres prepared for any celebration, vanguard, the institution has a main all with the services of catering, hall for 700 seats. The building has an cafeteria, translation, hostesses, etc. exhibition hall, meeting rooms, press Finally, the Region of Valencia has the and management, as well as a lower 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 40

This is a diverse and plural land. A Diverse and plural land of contrasts that offers everything to the traveller. Past and present, serenity and agitation. At a very short distance, on the same route, in the Region of Valencia it will be possible to experience the discovery of the most innovative next to a tradition preserved for thousands of years: the 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 41

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Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía. 39° 27’ 37.74” N 0° 21’ 20.57” W

architecture of Santiago Calatrava are as possible as the lagoons of reeds a options in order to please the palate of coexists here with the ancestral few steps from the sea. It is this very different travellers. Under the sun Tribunal de las Aguas (Water Court); just enormous variety, the contrasted and next to the sea, the Region of like the palm trees of Elx open under duality of the Valencian geography, Valencia waits for those who love sailing the same sky as the cliffs of Morella. that gives it a particular charm. So that and golf, Iberian art and contemporary Harsh and sweet, dry lands and the traveller can find it all. From north design. Full of contrasts and of life, irrigated lands, green and brown, the to south and from east to west, at a diverse and surprising. Valencian landscape is plural. The time in which the journey is a personal rugged forests of the mountain heights experience, with a great variety of 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 42

VISIONS

Serra Calderona. Valencia. 39º 42’ 0.00” N 0º 24.20’ 0.00” W

The Altea cove is crowned by the the fishermen that each morning go Penyagolosa and, from there, hike up to blue dome, characteristic of the out to fish. the highest peak of the region, Valencian landscape. The old white In the province of Castellón, in Penyagolosa, at 1,814 metres. If a blanket village, with narrow streets, crowds l’Alcalatén, the Penyagolosa rises of clouds does not impede it, from the around the Virgen del Consuelo imposingly to confirm that there is a peak the traveller can contemplate an Church. Between the Punta Bombarda Region of Valencia of mountainous astoni shing landscape of mountain and the Morro de Toix spreads a bay of landscape, harsh and designed for effort. ranges, forests and valleys. serene water and a port where small From Vistabella of the Maestrazgo one El Turia nearly always ends up dry in yachts harmonise with the activity of can reach the sanctuary of Sant Joan de Valencia, but it is a mountain river 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 43

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Calpe Port. 38° 37’ 44.19” N 0° 0’ 7.42” W Ports and mountains Next to the beauty of the beaches and calm ports, the mountain takes over the landscape

whose source is in the mountains of Chulilla, the river outlines the town, attraction. For many years, thousands of Teruel, and irrigates the Rincón de settled on a rock mass crowned by the summer vacationers have come to its Ademuz and crosses the rugged old castle of Moslem style. beach, golden and serene. There are so landscapes of the Valencian mountain The ducal city of the Borja, Gandia, many residents of Madrid that have a region. From Benagéber to Pedralba, is one of the substantial points of house next to this beach that there are passing through Tuéjar, Chelva, Calles, València Terra i Mar. Capital of an trains and buses that make the Madrid- Domeño and Chulilla, the traveller will agricultural district of great prestige, La Gandia route and there is a stable office find imposing canyons, little-known Safor, the city treasures a distinguished of this city in the capital of Spain. reservoirs, crests and pine forests. In past and a present of great tourist 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 44

VISIONS

Altea. Alicante. 38º 35.92’ 0.00” N 0º 3.04’ 0.00” W Calm and intensity Serene towns where life passes slowly next to municipalities of amazing flurry

Not very far from Morella, El attractiveness to the modern traveller. well-known recreation and leisure Forcall is offered to us as a symbol In the city of Valencia, the San areas of the entire Mediterranean: old of towns with a quiet life where Jaime plaza, in the heart of the pharmacies, former stores, nothing seems to have changed. The popular Barrio del Carmen, haberdasheries and warehouses are palace of the Osset presides over this changes the morning calm for an now active establishments where the serene town. Streets and mansions of unusual night time activity. During clock stops. a Gothic style have tranquilly gone the weekends, the young people The Rincón de Ademuz is an through time to offer their new meet here to set up one of the most enclave of the Valencia province 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 45

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Terra Mítica. Benidorm. 39° 28’ 40.57” N 0° 24’ 41.80” W

between neighbouring Teruel and serene stay and for strolling in spring intensity where life is hectic both at Cuenca. Ademuz, the capital of this and autumn. night and during the day. With its mountainous district is presented to Benidorm is, by itself, a force in the particular configuration of skyscrapers, the traveller propped up on a hill as if tourism of the Region of Valencia. Benidorm has its own style and charm: it were a Nativity Scene. Between the Cosmopolitan, famous worldwide, the Terra Mítica theme park is one of Ebrón and the Turia, valleys of fruit with thousands of hotel rooms, the its hundred attractions, among which trees and poplar groves, and thick pine city that drove tourism of Alicante and the beaches are not the least. woods, an exceptional setting for a of all of Spain is a place of exceptional 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 46

VISIONS

Biar Castle. Alicante. 38° 37' 47.69" N 0° 46' 12.88" W

Morella is a fortress perched on a The scene of wars and battles, many combination of the most modern cliff, a town clinging to its castle and events of the history of the Valencian computer resources with the highest sustained by the walled enclosure. Its lands have taken place in this selection of historical pieces have beauty originates from its rarity and is impregnable fortress. allowed archaeology to find an ideal transformed in picturesque streets, The Provincial Archaeology place in this museum to explain the plazas and settings. A perfect tourist Museum of Alicante, MARQ, is customs, cultural expression, food and destination, it combines history with excellent proof of the development coexistence models of the primitive attractions of the present, traditions that culture has had in the Region of villages of the eastern part of the with modern art, particular gastronomy Valencia for the purpose of teaching Iberian Peninsula. and surrounding areas full of surprises. as well as a tourist attraction. A It is said that the San Pío V Fine Arts 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 47

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San Pío V Fine Arts Museum. Valencia. 39° 28’ 45.54” N 0° 22’ 16.15” W

Castles and museums Fortresses that speak of centuries coexist with cultural institutions of all kinds

Provincial Archaeology Museum (MARQ). Alicante. 38° 21’ 12.79” N 0° 28’ 35.63”W

Museum of Valencia is the second The Valencian artistic group of that cliffs, dominating valleys, road and the pictorial collection in Spain because time –Sorolla, Benlliure, Sala, Pla, outline of the rivers, there are walls and of its quality and the quantity of Pinazo– is magnificently represented in towers that invoke a vigilant and artwork that it houses. Expanded in its halls. battling past. Beside the fortress, Biar, recent years, it brings together the Rugged and powerful, the Biar which continues speaking to us of collection of the San Carlos Fine Arts fortress dominates the city and ancient Christian and Arab kingdoms, Academy and its own collections that reiterates that the Valencian lands have preserves a labyrinth of winding go from the early Valencian and had gradual borders of conquest and streets, with a particular charm. Flemish works to very select pieces of have also been the scene of tension the last decades of the 19th century. with Castilla. In the most extraordinary 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 48

VISIONS

Exposición Bridge. Valencia. 39° 28’ 20.56” N 0° 21’ 57.23”W

Declared World Heritage Site by legend, in Latin, that recalls ethical de las Artes y las Ciencias is made up UNESCO, the Silk Exchange of sentences of the traders. by the Hemisfèric, the Príncipe Felipe Valencia refers to a commercial past in The international architect Santiago Science Museum, Reina Sofía Art Palace, which the trade guilds shaped the basic Calatrava was born in Valencia. And l’Oceanogràfic, l’Umbracle, the Assut de structure of the city in which the port for more than a decade he had been l’Or Bridge and the Ágora. linked all of those of the Mediterranean. leaving in his city a set of buildings that The church of the Sangre is one of the The Gothic spiralling columns give can be considered as his most powerful most outstanding pieces of Valencian solemn architecture to a contracting professional and artistic legacy. religious culture and a key building of room festooned with a ribbon with the Whichever you may prefer, the Ciudad the city of Llíria, called the “City of Music”. 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 49

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L’Almoina Gate. Valencia Cathedral. 39° 28' 32.51" N 0° 22' 28.04" W

Classical and contemporary The styles of the past coexist with the most fascinating modern architecture

It was the first temple that achieved the In Castellón de la Plana we can find the reference to leisure and culture. Castellón protection as an historical artistic contrast: it is the Planetarium, the first de la Plana, in the first years of the 21st monument in the Valencian region. And that was built in the Region of century is a city with outstanding this is due to the fact that it is one of the Valencia, a facility from the 1980s, prior to examples of new architecture at the few that preserves Romanic traces along that of the Ciudad de las Artes y las service of culture. with those of Sagunt and Xàtiva. It is, then, Ciencias of Valencia. It is located next to a temple of the first era of Christian the Pinar beach, to the north of the Grao domination, a time of change and the Port, and it was the first dynamic element settlement of a new culture. of the change of the city de la Plana in 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 50

VISIONS

El Saler Golf Course. Valencia. 39° 19' 9.51" N 0° 18' 5.43" W

The serenity of a golf course, the course, located next to the Tourism multitudes, each summer, in the solitary peace of a good strokeis a Parador of the same name, is one of the International Music Festival of pleasure within reach of everyone on the most prestigious facilities in Europe. Benicàssim, FIB, Rototom Festival, golf courses of the Region of Valencia, Enjoying music of the latest trends, in a Arenal Sound Burriana and Low that appear among the best equipped multitudinous atmosphere of festivity Festival Benidorm. Singers with great and designed of Spain. Always with fair and participation, it is one of the many appeal and the best national and weather, any of the facilities to which the possibilities of tourism of the Region of international rock groups increasingly traveller may go, located next to the sea Valencia. include the four Valencian tourist areas or towards the interior, will satisfy the Thousands of young fans, coming in their schedules of activities and tours. aspirations of the golfers. El Saler golf from all over Europe, join in with Each June, Les Fogueres de Sant 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 51

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Desert and town The traveller can look for solitude or enjoy being submerged in multitudes

Joan (bonfires of St. John) festival of the following year. That cliffs for his activity and the hiker a culminate with the fire ceremony in night, the firemen carry out the ritual network of paths perfectly marked a mass festival, worth being established ritual of watering the and preserved. Deep ravines, winding experienced in the street, in the excess flames on the façades and the paths, torrents and forest allow all popular stalls where young and old heat of the multitude of festival goers. types of sports activities individually or get together for a coexistence that But the lovers of serenity and large in small groups, far from the bustle extends without hours to bridge the spaces, also have their opportunity and noise of the multitudes. day and night. Among fireworks, the in the mountain heights of flames devour cardboard and wooden Castellón, Alicante and Valencia. monuments to set the rhythm of the The mountain climber will find daring 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 52

NATURE

Monastery of Santa María de la Valldigna. Simat de la Valldigna. 39° 2’ 34.80” N 0° 18’ 18.89” W

The church of Nuestra Señora de los has awakened new tourist routes in groves, it opens to the sea and Ángeles was built on a large the three provinces of the Region of conforms an exceptional setting. In the fortified Templar tower erected on Valencia and has opened new 14th century, the Cistercian monks the rocky mound of Castielfabib. scenarios, now placed within the reach founded a cenobium, profusely Perched on a cliff, peering out over of travellers. decorated in baroque times and lush valleys of poplars and fruit trees, The monastery of Santa María de la abandoned because of the the town is one of the most Valldigna is located in one of the disentailment. Through extensive picturesque landscapes of the Rincón most beautiful valleys of the region. efforts, the Valencian Regional de Ademuz, a characteristic district of Surrounded by mountains, the stream Government is recovering the place the Valencian interior. Rural tourism bed, populated with lush orange and returning it to its former splendour. 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 53

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Calpe. Costa Blanca. 38° 38' 33.24" N 0° 3' 23.82" E

Peaks and valleys The orography of the Region of Valencia allows great contrast with the landscape

Monastery of Santa María de Benifassà. La Tinença de Benifassà. 40° 40' 35.44" N 0° 11' 49.58" E

Challenging the Mediterranean, like of the coast we can find the Baños de Castellón, the town has a rich history a watchtower, the Peñón de Ifach la Reina, remains of rafts from a factory that is preserved in ruins of the wall carries with it the legend of being where the Romans prepared salted and various ancestral houses that make one of the towers of Hercules. It is fish. up plazas with porticos. For decades the most characteristic landscape of Benasal has the name of a spa of the hermitages, pine woods, walks the Costa Blanca, the reference of a salutary waters where the Font d’En among shadows and fruit trees have postcard of blooming almond trees Segures has for centuries tried to attain made more enjoyable the excursions and white houses that climb up in the wellbeing of those who go to its of the summer vacationers that look search of a benign sun all year round facilities. Located in one of the most for relief in the fountains and health and an intensely blue sea. In the rocks beautiful valleys of the interior of from the springs. 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 54

NATURE

East and west The variety of landscape takes us to very different scenarios

The interior of the Region of Valencia coniferous trees. The protected birds of contrast of the palm trees becomes is mountainous and is frequently prey have taken over the peaks in the more frequent and intense until making covered with lush forests. Those of the Valencian mountain ranges. up actual forests in the south part of the natural parks of the Tinença de Palm trees make one think of the Alicante province and especially in Elx. Benifassà, the Sierra de Espadán and the south. Palm trees refer us to an But along with the adobe houses, or the Desert de les Palmes, in the province of oriental landscape. In midst of the vast white farmhouses, it is an unavoidable Castellón, are particularly rich in corn Valencian orange grove, the slender reference of the Valencian landscape. oaks, Kermes oaks and Holm oaks, palm tree is a reference for the hiker. As The orange tree continues being the besides different types of pine and we advance towards the south, the master of extensive areas of Valencian 001-055 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:13 Página 55

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The palm grove of Elx. Alicante. 38° 5’ 67.0.00” N 0° 56’ 28.0.00” W

landscape. From the coastal zone it has brands compete in quality and pedigree province: an official declaration has given been climbing in altitude in the with those of Carcaixent and Alzira, on them protection as assets of public protected areas of the interior. Marina the banks of the river Xúquer. interest. In the areas near the natural park and Safor, Ribera and Camp de Turia, and A few kilometres from Vila-real or Nules, of Sierra de Espadán –from Aín to Chóvar of course Plana de Castellón present lush towards the interior, the landscape and from Alfondeguilla to Eslida– the oil orchards with orange groves that changes and the orange tree is elaborated with traditional care and tradition teaches to cultivate with concedes its priority to the olive tree. results in accredited handcrafted brands. delicacy. In Vila-real and Borriana, in the It is still possible to find thousand-year- province of Castellón, the exporting old olive trees in the interior of the 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 56

NATURE

Large and small Nature, with its variety, offers the most vivid contrasts

In the Bioparc of Valencia, Africa of movement of the animals is made where being delicate and small has been reconstructed in detail so possible, the utmost safety and the is still important. The protection that the species may adapt to their greatest sensation of unity between permits the rarest plant species to new habitat. In this way, it is not the fauna and the landscape. coexist with birds that find unusual to see in the same excursion a Four islands make up a singular and there a specialised refuge of rhinoceros and elephants, giraffes and very old island chain of volcanic origin. environmental quality. The lizard of the large felines. Hundreds of people visit They are the Columbretes Islands, Columbretes is an endemic species the facilities each day, especially those one of the most cared for natural that cannot be found in any other part designed so that the greatest freedom parks of the Mediterranean, a place of the world. 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 57

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Beluga. L’Oceanogràfic. Valencia. 39° 27’ 19.49” N 0° 21’ 9.64” W

The seabeds of the Valencian coast proximity of Altea and Benidorm, the In others, as is the case of the orcas and are places of singular beauty and Region offers scuba divers the other large marine mammals, so that the environmental quality. They are bays guarantee of enjoyment at a depth of a curious can know the power and the of clean and transparent water where very few metres. majesty of animals that have found in the meadows of seagrass are part of the In l’Oceanogràfic de Valencia, the this aquarium the accommodation that landscape between bands of fish. On larger marine species wait for the they needed to live and reproduce in the coast of the Serra d’Irta, in the visitors. In some cases, as occurs with freedom. setting of the Tabarca island, or in the the dolphins, to give them thrilling natural park of the Serra Gelada, in the shows, full of liveliness and intelligence. 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 58

NATURE

Peñón de Ifach. 38º 37.95' 0.00"N 0º 4.80' 0.00" E

Natural Reserve Network A great variety of Mediterranean flora and fauna

The Region of Valencia has a network investments dedicated to the restoration sheltered places and information on of natural spaces that are among of the environment, the promotion of activities that are scheduled and the those of the best quality in Europe research and the prevention of forest values that are defended in the reserves. and that are already the second in fires. In all these areas, the traveller will Besides the more than twenty natural Spain. Established for the purpose of find the best landscape and parks, the Region of Valencia has protecting the natural territory in the environmental conditions, a variety of landscapes with protection, natural upcoming years, it is object of fauna and flora worthy of interest and settings of a municipal character and 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 59

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Chera. Valencia. 39° 35’ 36.08” N 0° 58’ 22.02” W L’Albufera. Valencia. 39° 19’ 19.01” N 0° 19’ 49.92” W

protected natural monuments. Other marshes. The Fondo d’Elx, the Marjal park in its municipal district: specifically, protection models that the European Pego-Oliva and the lagoons of Mata- it occupies 43% of the surface that is legislation considers are those places of Torrevieja complete a series of owned by the city. Of this area especially community interest, of which there are protected areas at the edge of the sea. protected for its beauty and around one hundred in the region, and As stopping points for the migratory environmental importance, 48% is the areas of special protection for birds birds, these wetlands located in coastal occupied by the lake, with the remainder that exist from north to south. areas of the region have special being reserved for rice fields, reeds and The Region of Valencia has precious relevance and protection. The Albufera the sandy bar of El Saler and La Devesa. wetlands that are especially of Valencia is the largest wetland and protected. They are the ones of Prat de especially characterises the city to which Cabanes- Torreblanca, Albufera of the lake belongs. Valencia is the only Valencia and the Santa Pola salt large capital of Spain that has a natural 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 60

NATURE

Serra Gelada. Benidorm. 30º 31.83' 0.00 N 0º 5.43'0.00 W

Besides the Peñón de Ifach, in Calpe, areas of Costa Blanca and Benidorm. either on group excursions or on private there are coastal mountain ranges For its beauty, for its values, thousands visits. The affluence of excursionists is that have been subject of special of hectares of territory of the Region of growing, in step with the extension of protection for the high landscape and Valencia are subject of special the environmental values in the society. natural value. They are the Serra d’Irta, supervision and protection. Each year, In the proximity of Castellón de la in Castellón , and the peaks of around 800,000 persons visit the Plana and Benicàssim, the Desert de Montgó and Serra Gelada, in the protected natural settings of the region, les Palmes is a place of more than 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 61

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Penyagolosa Massif. Vistabella del Maestrazgo. 40º 13’33.00” N 0º 20’57.00”W

Penyagolosa is a beautiful protected park of special environmental value whose peak is at more than 1,800 metres in altitude.

3,000 hectares, protected since 1989 The Sierra Calderona is comprised of the city of Valencia, the Sierra safeguards for its singular beauty. The mountains more than 18,000 hectares of two important monasteries: the Cartuja of the Puebla de San Miguel, in extension and takes in lands of fourteen de Portaceli, founded in 1272 by the Ademuz, and the Sierra Calderona towns on the two sides of the mountain Cistercians, and the Franciscan convent have been protected too, contributing chain, in the province of Valencia as well of Santo Espíritu del Monte. more than 25,000 hectares to the areas as in that of Castellón. In addition to of special supervision. being one of the green lungs nearest 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 62

NATURE

Los Cuchillos. Cabriel River. 39º 36.30’ 0.00 N 0º 46.74’ 0.00 W “The Valencian does not disdain anything. If he finds obstacles, he overcomes them with tenacity; if the soil is unrewarding, he improves it; if it is fertile, he makes it produce up to three or four crops a year” (Antonio José Cavanilles. “Observaciones sobre el Reino de Valencia” [Observations on the Kingdom of Valencia]. 1792)

The Hoces del Cabriel, that been object of protection by the canyons where the river Cabriel draws separate the Region of Valencia Valencian Regional Government. It the border between the two regions. from the province of Cuenca, is an concerns more than 30,000 hectares Among the fauna stands out the area of exceptional interest that has of the best protected places, with abundance of birds of prey, with the 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 63

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Font Roja. Alcoy. 38º 39.82’ 0.00” N 0º 32.35’ 0.00” W

presence of eagles. where more than 12,000 species of Roja, pride of the city of Alcoy, one More than twelve thousand plants are catalogued, many of them of the natural sites of all of Spain that hectares of the Sierra de Mariola, endemic, and the two thousand has obtained the Q of quality for the in Alicante, are also protected, hectares of Holm oaks of Font excellence of its management. 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 64

NATURE

Turia River. 39º 36.30’ 0.00” N 0º 46.47’ 0.00” W

“Through time, the Valencian has always tried to tame the river Turia”. (José Soler Carnicer)

The Ribera del Turia is an important Turia, in the region of l’Horta and Camp the Vallesa de Mandor reservoir make up area, protected since 2007; it spreads de Turia. The pine trees make up the the protected area. for almost five thousand hectares in a main forest masses in the surrounding The Tinença de Benifassà, the Sierra total of thirteen riverside towns of the area. The Barranco Hondo aqueduct and de Espadán, the Columbretes Islands 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 65

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and the massif of Penyagolosa are four With them, the heritage of the province Chera-Sot de Chera area, have also natural spaces, each different from the of Castellón is enriched. On the other been the object of unique protection other, but all of great importance in hand, in the province of Valencia over from the Valencian Regional Government. terms of landscape and environment. 6,000 hectares of thick forests in the 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 66

NATURE

Llíber. 38º 44' 32.66" N 0º 00' 22.78" E

One of the best values exploited by The value of rural tourism private initiatives in the Region of Valencia is rural tourism. Small business owners from Valencia have begun reforms and adaptations in their rural homes in order to turn them into shelters and simple vacation homes where the way of life and tending to the 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 67

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Ademuz. 40º 3.64' 0.00" N 1º 17.13' 0.00" W

travellers have been maintained as who repeat the experience of good possibility of travelling to places in classic times. treatment in search of values and exploring new areas, with the With simplicity, honesty of a contrasting with reasonable prices. resulting benefit for the more natural and generous cuisine, with This way, small towns where there deteriorated regions of the interior approved facilities in every case, never was a boarding house or in resources and perspectives. small town entrepreneurs from the where business disappeared years Valencian provinces are achieving a ago, once again have beds growing presence of travellers, available in well-furnished houses. Valencian, Spanish and foreigners, This has brought about the 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 68

Columbretes Islands. 39º 53' 38.23" N 0º 41' 10.12" E 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 69

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Parque Natural

Natural Reserve Natural Marine Reserve 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 70

CULTURE

Cathedral. Orihuela. 38° 5' 9.29" N 0° 56' 45.54" W

In the Valencian lands there are among the first Christian residents of the that is designed each day and always noticeable traces of Romanesque art, repopulated city. The traveller can read the shows a blade of grass in his smiling, which came with the conquerors names of the man and his wife under each ingenious and happy face. Close to life, his preceding Jaime I in the highlands of of the smiling figures. work can be seen in many plazas and Castellón and Rincón de Ademuz. In Ripollés is the symbol of Castellón art in crossroads of the Valencian cities; to make Valencia, there is the Almoina gate,the the 21st century. Affable and natural, public a Valencian way of living, close to most primitive of the Cathedral, it evokes covered in simplicity and innocence, the materials and nature. the legend of the seven families that paid painter and sculptor dresses with a white Eusebio Sempere is the artist of for it and that without a doubt were tunic, covers his head with a handkerchief Alicante. So much so that the 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 71

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Tribute to books. Juan Ripollés. Valencia. 39° 27’ 50.48” N 0° 21’ 30.60” W Yesterday and today The diversity of culture and of the fine arts offer examples from all eras

Contemporary Art Museum of Alicante, enjoy relevant pieces of Joan Miró and and the Santiago church, which is located in the Casa de la Asegurada, a Picasso, of Tàpies, Millares, Chillida, Saura, Property of Cultural Interest, it is building from the 17th century and of Juan Gris, Julio González and others. recommended to visit the Cathedral, noble design, have a highlighted place The city of Orihuela, cradle of the which began with a Gothic design and dedicated to him. Within its rooms, the poet Miguel Hernández, is the later had elegant Renaissance and visitor will find a magnificent collection of Episcopal seat and treasures a set of the Baroque additions. A good museum, contemporary paintings and sculpture, noble palaces that make necessary as linked with the episcopate, summarises from the donation that the artist made in detailed visit to the stately streets and the city’s artistic history. 1976. In addition to his works, one can plazas. Apart from the Palacio Episcopal 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 72

CULTURE

Dama d’Elx. 38° 14' 14.67" N 0.39° 42' 0.84" W

Instituto Valenciano de Arte Moderno. IVAM. Valencia. 39° 28’ 47.73” N 0° 22’ 58.72”W

Serene and beautifully covered, the farmer, at the end of the 19th century, in Valdés, one of the founders of the Dama d’Elx was named the Reina an orchard in Elx destiny took it to the Equipo Crónica, built for the avenue of Mora in the days of its discovery. Her Louvre Museum from which it returned the Valencian Courts, one of the main eyes seem to hold mystery; her to stay in Madrid, cared for in the locations of modern Valencia, this new flamboyant chignon evokes forgotten National Archaeology Museum. Elx version of the Dama d’Elx, made with etiquette. What was placed in the longed for its return to where it first thousands of small Damas made of blue hollow that the sculpture has in its came, which became temporarily ceramic. Stylised, simple and serene, the back? Perfumes, offerings, ashes? The possible a short time ago. new Dama also seems to hold secrets in Dama de d’Elx was discovered by a The painter and sculptor Manolo the distance with which it looks out at 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 73

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Dama Ibérica. Manolo Valdés. Valencia. 39° 29’ 22.92” N 0° 23’ 58.12” W

Tradition and avant garde Classicism and the vanguards offer a wise combination of arts

the daily hustle and bustle from the trophies and sculptures of different Música, was the initial dynamic element centre of the monumental roundabout. sizes. The original, a few centimetres in of the change of Valencia towards The Guerrero de Moixent is a figurine height, is carefully kept in the Museo de vanguardism and modernism. Today. of Iberian art. Found in the excavations Prehistòria of València, located in the the IVAM, in a renowned institution on of the Iberian village of Bastida de les cultural complex of La Beneficencia. an international scale which exhibits Alcusses, on the outskirts of Moixent, Close by, barely some distance away, is and cares for the collections of Julio the horse rider has become a Valencian the Instituto Valenciano de Arte González, Ignacio Pinazo, Josep Renau, symbol. Prizes with its name are Moderno (IVAM). It was founded in Equipo Crónica and all the vanguards of awarded and its image is reproduced on 1989 and, along with the Palau de la the 20th century. 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 74

CULTURE

Baroque doorway of the Cathedral. Valencia. 39° 28’ 33.62” N 0° 22’ 31.18”W

In Valencian lands, the traveller will on the baroque abundance in the belfries of the Valencian lands. find all the styles and very diverse decoration of columns and capitals. If Sant Mateu is a beautiful city of forms to address architecture and art. the city of Valencia encloses a complete medieval style that in its day Thus, in the primitive Cistercian sampling of all the stages of fine arts, a experienced the splendour of being the constructions, the simplicity of form will trip through the Region of Valencia will true historical capital of the Maestrazgo. make us recall a world without artifice, make the experience even richer and Its relation with the medieval military where the solidity of stone leads to more varied: Gothic, Renaissance and orders (San Juan de Jerusalén and prayer and contemplation. Baroque, Neoclassical too, coexist Montesa) can still be followed in the Years later, the Valencian temples took harmoniously in temples, palaces and outline of its main temple dedicated to 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 75

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Colón Market. Valencia. 39° 28’ 7.51” N 0° 22’ 8.27” W

Simple and complex Next to starkness, abundance: the styles are superimposed in culture

Sant Mateu. 40° 27’ 50.08” N 0° 10’ 41.75” E

St. Peter, in the large Gothic windows of Modernism is very much present in that is a living example of the its palaces and in the routes of its the buildings of the Ensanche district decoration and furnishing of this style, narrow streets. It was the site of of the city of Valenica. But a located in a house – a clear example of meetings of the Courts of the Kingdom particularly refined and elegant Modernism and the moment – built of Valencia and, in its church, Papa Luna, expression is found in Novelda, a city between 1900 and 1904. Benedicto XIII, presented his resignation, of Alicante, where the seafarer Jorge famous for his resistance in ceding in his Juan was born. The city, outstanding for schismatic determination from his its marble industries and for its table fortress in Peñíscola. grapes, has created a Museo Modernista 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 76

CULTURE

Depositary of Culture A complete network of museums await the visitor in the Region of Valencia

Almost all the periods and sized cities that do not have something commendable operation that has led to specialities of art and culture are of interest and that there are many recalling the old industry and bringing found in the specialised museums of small towns that have made a cultural together in it other pieces of cultural the Region of Valencia. effort worthy of respect. Sometimes, and historical interest. It is in the city of From large collections to the modest this collecting and preserving desire has Valencia where there is the most local undertakings to bring together accompanied a project of a greater variety of museums and collections archaeology and ethnology pieces, you goal, such as the restoration of a wine to visit. are ensured that there are few medium- cellar, a mansion, a mill... in a From the IVAM to the Museo de 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 77

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Instituto Valenciano de Arte Moderno. IVAM. Valencia. 39° 28’ 47.73” N 0° 22’ 58.72” W Marqués de Dos Aguas Palace. Valencia. 39° 28’ 21.50” N 0° 22’ 28.53” W

Conchita Piquer, located in the house ships were built for the Crown and the interesting expositions and unites the she was born in, the traveller will find Museo de la Ilustración y la Modernidad, museums of Prehistory and Ethnology. museums dedicated to numerous MUVIM. Lastly, the city has two museums of subjects, from the Corpus Christi The school of Corpus Christi, or that of history and an exhibition hall in the procession to rice. It is essential to get the Patriarca, house a magnificent medieval Almudín. The bullfight, to know the Museo de Bellas Artes and collection of paintings and a library of military, fallas and natural science the Museo Nacional de Cerámica, the excellent worth. The cultural complex of museums are also interesting. The medieval Atarazanas (dockyards) where the Beneficencia always presents University also preserves very 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 78

CULTURE

Ducal Palace. Gandia. 38° 58' 08.50'' N 0° 11' 06.81''W

important collections and houses the collections in Sagunt and in Llíria, as Pinazo and in l’Olleria the Museo de first book printed in Spain. In the well as in Cullera and Gandia. It is Vidrio (glass museum). Oliva preserves Valencian Library, located in the necessary to know the Museo de the house of the family Mayans and, in imposing monastery of San Miguel de l’Almodí, of Xàtiva, and the Ducal Manises, there is an important los Reyes, in the orchard to the north of Palace of Gandia. Albaida has an collection of ceramics and a museum Valencia, there are usually seasonal original museum dedicated to the dedicated to the entire handcrafted exhibits Puppets (titelles) and Aras de los Olmos process. The Museo de la Imprenta y la In the province of Valencia there are has another dedicated to fossils. In Obra Gráfica (printing and graphic arts outstanding archaeological Godella one can visit the Casa-Museo museum) can be visited in the 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 79

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Modernist Museum. Novelda. 38º 23' 10.77" N 0º 45' 54.65" W

Monastery of Santa María del Puig. especially those related to agriculture. natural sciences of El Carmen de Nearly all the medium-sized cities of In Ibi there is a notable and curious Onda guarded by Carmelites deserves the province of Alicante have an museum dedicated to the great local mention. Segorbe, the Episcopal Seat, interesting archaeological collection resource which is the toy. In Monóvar, has a cathedral museum; while that can be visited. However, those of there is the house where José Ruiz, Vilafamés has a noteworthy Elx, Dénia and Villena stand out, which Azorín, was born. contemporary art collection, resulting preserve the impressive treasure of Castellón de la Plana offers an from the critic Vicente Aguilera Cerni’s their name. Ethnographical collections interesting ethnology museum. The passion; and Morella has footprints and those of lost trades also abound, history museum of Nules and that of dinosaurs left behind. 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 80

CULTURE

Heritage of Humanity

In the year 1996, the UNESCO Cave Art of the Mediterranean Arc of the and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. decided to bestow the title of Iberian Peninsula, the Palm Grove of Elx The Tribunal de las Aguas has been Heritage of Humanity on Valencia’s in the year 2000, and the Misteri d’Elx, a declared a world heritage site in 2009 Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange), a sacral-lyrical drama of medieval origin and, in 2011, la Festa de la Mare de Déu monument held as the most beautiful that continues being represented each de Algemesí festivity. building of the civil Gothic style of the month of August in honour of the Valencia’s Lonja de la Seda, or Lonja de los entire Mediterranean. Two years later, it Asunción de la Virgen María (Ascension), Mercaderes, has the virtue of being the agreed to declare the protection of the was declared in 2001 as an Asset of Oral centre of trading since it was founded, at 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 81

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Inside the Lonja. Valencia. Cave Art. La Valltorta. Castellón. 39° 28’ 27.46” N 0° 22’ 42.22”W 40° 25’ 46.45” N 0° 5’ 31.86” E

the end of the 15th century. Constructed from Andalucía to Cataluña, but the the Cueva de la Araña, in Bicorp, is the between 1482 and 1498 at the expense most unique examples are found in the one of greatest relevance. of the city of Valencia, it was the Valencian region. The inland regions of The palm tree makes up the headquarters of the Consulat del Mar, the the Region of Valencia shelter cave Mediterranean landscape par trade regulating institution. The drawings with impressive excellence and turns Elx into a unique contracting room, supported by eight representations of hunting scenes, of forest. Subject of a protective twisted columns that open like palm trees shepherding or honey gathering. In the declaration by the UNESCO as universal in the ceiling, was festooned with a town of Tirig, in Castellón, near where cultural heritage, Elx, where the Iberian ribbon with Latin slogans that give moral the Cova de la Valltorta is found, of Dama was discovered that has its name, advice to the traders. Doors and windows, particular significance, the Generalitat possesses precious orchards of palm a helicoidal stairway without auxiliary founded a museum dedicated to these trees among which stands out the shoring, the Consulate Room and the artistic representations, which are famous Huerto del Cura: the imperial Patio of the Orange Trees complete some between 4,000 and 7,000 years old. In palm tree, with eight arms, boasts of an of the values of a unique monument. the interior of the province of Valencia age of nearly two centuries. In the The Cave Art of the Mediterranean there are at least another 16 sheltered proximity of the sea, the Fondo, or the Arc of the Iberian peninsula extends places of singular importance of which Hondo, is a marsh rich in flora and fauna. 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 82

CULTURE

Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía. 39° 27’ 37.74” N 0° 21’ 20.57” W

Seasons of music and festivals

Theatre, symphonic music, ballet, Regional Government, which has a almost the entire year in all the opera, pop music, jazz... The options network of theatres and auditoriums in Valencian tourist areas. are always open in the Region of the principal cities of the region, The Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía, in Valencia. All the musical modalities, coordinates the most important Valencia, has become one of the most and all the styles, find accommodation programming. But along with the important opera and lyrical in the institutions of Castellón, Valencia, public initiative, the private sector offers auditoriums of Spain. Lorin Maazel and Alicante and Benidorm. The Valencian stimulating programming throughout Zubin Mehta, in just a few years, have 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 83

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situated the institution at the peak of all appear through the year, making symphonies to popular band music, in its musical aspirations. Its programming more enjoyable the conferences, exhibits two sound rooms. The autumn/winter goes from October to March but it and lectures in a cultural machine that season coexists with that of the spring, connects, when spring arrives, with the combines three large halls. which becomes diverse when summer Festival del Mediterráneo, which runs In the city of Valencia itself the Palau de arrives, when the jazz festival arrives and until June. Opera, symphonic music, la Música offers, since 1987, varied open-air concerts are lavished on the zarzuela, musical comedy, ballet... They programming that goes from great gardens of the riverbed of the Turia. 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 84

CULTURE

Roman theatre. Sagunt. 39° 40' 35.82" N 0° 16' 40.55" W

Castellón de la Plana and Alicante also impact. In Castellón there are festivals theatres of the three capitals and in many have lyrical seasons to satisfy a and competitions, as in Benicàssim, in other public and private halls of the demanding public. If in the city of la honour of the guitarist Tárrega, and in region. But it is in the summer when Plana opera is offered from October, Valencia each year the pianist José Iturbi is special festivals will be found: classical and the city of Benacantil prepares each evoked. baroque music is programmed in many year a prestigious festival of As regards the theatre, the traveller will places, but those of Monserrat and contemporary music with national find stable programming in the principal Oropesa del Mar stand out; and of those 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 85

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Teatro Principal. Castellón de la Plana. 39° 59' 2.08" N 0° 2' 16.26" W

“The idea of strength, which is always united with the memory of Rome, emerges incomparable from this rubble, adhered to the rocks and hardened like them”. (Teodoro Llorente. Sagunt, 1887)

dedicated to the theatre the most There are more than three hundred well as in summer, the programming relevant is that of Sagunt, which is federated musical bands, supported becomes more demanding and the carried out in the ancient Roman by thousands of young workers that are quality is not far from the great theatre. learning musical sensitivity. If in the symphonism. The Certamen de Bandas But on the more popular scale, the Valencian festivals we are always going of the July Fair in Valencia is one of the bands of music are the great cultural to hear fantastic popular music, in the most prestigious of Spain. wealth of the Region of Valencia. festivals and competitions, in winter as 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 86

GASTRONOMY

In the Valencian cooking ranges, there contrast; but never contradiction and those who, in the past, exercised the is not much occasion for disputes. Two must less confrontation. Because, in mastery in family atmospheres or with do not argue if no one wants to and in the restaurants of the Region of very little projection. the restaurants of Alicante, Valencia Valencia, innovation is a required area There is no dispute, in fact, when and Castellón in the 21st century, the of the profession of cooking, which establishing that good products are traveller can find contrasts, and always originates from a always the key. There can be no numerous occasions for variety and comprehensive and admiring view of tension when there is a decided 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:20 Página 87

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Tradition and Innovation The old roots are not incompatible with the research on new textures and flavours

predilection for the simplest materials, most demanding results of innovation. that of the coast and that of the inland. presented in the most natural form. There is a bit of everything, then, in Cuisine without haste in the villages Good fish, excellent vegetables, select contrast but without challenge, in the and with the table laid for urban life meat and respectful treatment make cuisine of the Region of Valencia: for and the business world. The taste is in up a way of preparing, always full of this reason we will find tradition and the variety. affection, that will result in the eternal evolution. And also such different Mediterranean cuisine and also in the worlds as that of fish and that of meat, 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:21 Página 88

GASTRONOMY

Rice is the king in Valencian cuisine, chapter of rice, over time, it has adapted The arnadí is an ancient Valencian the scholars ensure us. But it has never to the variety of the products that the sweet, made with roasted pumpkin. been alone. The Valencian would not market offered, the economic From Xàtiva and its district, its recipe know how to live without his rice, but it possibilities, the local traditions and the has been preserved from olden times is also true that one can eat splendidly good taste and creativity of the chef. and has extended to many other beyond the rice. In order to see clearly In the field of desserts and pastries, the points of the Region of Valencia. Sugar, this contrast of the traditional and traveller will find an identical set of eggs, lemon, cinnamon and almonds modern cuisine in the substantial passionate contrasts. accompany the roasted pumpkin in 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:21 Página 89 Arnadí. Xàtiva.

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Arnadí. Xàtiva.

Of the sea and the vegetable garden All the flavours meet in the varied cuisine of the Valencian lands

order to take the palate many product of its own such as the surprise the most demanding palate centuries back, to the time of Moorish almond. Alicante is the land of the with delicate preparations in which domination of these lands. turrones and ice cream, and the the traditional products of the Sugar cane reached Europe through three Valencian provinces have known architecture of flavours are present. these lands and was cultivated how to prepare magnificent profusely in large Valencian districts. chocolates for centuries. Along this So it is natural that here there is a very line, the modern restaurant business rich tradition of pastries, linked to a continues looking for the way to 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:21 Página 90

GASTRONOMY

Strong and light The geography and the climate characterise the cuisine of all the districs

In the interior of the provinces of cuisine. Ayora and its district are a with that of the game. A shepherds’ Valencia and Alicante, the Valencian perfect example. But there are many dish, strong for those days in which cuisine is transformed and adopts as other places: in Cortes de Pallás, in winter is approaching; it is another its own dish the gazpacho de caza Bocairent, and in many districts of the characteristic of the variety of Valencian (gazpacho of game). We are far from Alicante interior, Monóvar and Villena, cuisine. the sea and here the roads are what in Castalla too, the traveller will find the On the coast, however, there are bring the influence of La Mancha’s aroma of the mountain herbs together districts where the preparation of food 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:21 Página 91

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claims minimum intervention. One just anchovy are enough to reach the and sugar, provide the palate with an needs a sheet of pastry to put into it perfection of culinary simplicity. The incredible variety of flavours. whatever one’s imagination dictates, tart can be so humble that it barely At the same time, from the Roman depending on the possibilities of our contains oil and salt. Heirs of a tradition era, the Valencians have shown a pantry. We have found in the kingdom that must be traced to the Moorish special tendency to prepare of the tarts, prepared in Moorish domination, the Valencian pastries and magnificent salted and marinated ovens, that the traveller will associate desserts enjoy great fame. If Alicante is food. The fish (anchovies, tuna, frigate very soon with the world of the pizzas with full justice the cradle of mackerel, cod, octopus) have become of the not very distant Italy. There are turrones and of ice cream, the delicate bites, very appreciated by the flour tarts, but also of corn (dacsa). On villages of the Region of Valencia most demanding palates. occasions, some vegetables, a little collect ancient recipes in which sobrasada (soft spicy sausage), an almonds and oil, associated with eggs 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:21 Página 92

GASTRONOMY

The wine of the Region of Valencia, with Designation of Origin, has well- White, rosé and red merited fame in Europe and America. If from olden times one has spoken with Valencian wine is famous and boasts admiration of the wines from Alicante of variety and Valencia, it has been in recent decades when a quality selection process has occurred that has been 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:21 Página 93

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associated with international Valencian wine. The dry white wines the quality of its productions. recognition and appropriate marketing. from the Alto Turia are famous, as Furthermore, in addition to the great In this way, on a tradition that in the are the rosé and red wines from variety of liqueurs that are elaborated 19th century gave great returns in Utiel and Requena. No less in traditional Valencian wineries, some quantity of production, they now work recognised is the sweet wine of producers have specialised in the on quality levels that are highly Godelleta and of La Marina in elaboration of cava, in which very high esteemed and recognised. Alicante. The designation of origin levels of quality are reached and that Variety also appears when speaking of Alicante is especially outstanding for have a great demand. 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:21 Página 94

GASTRONOMY

Gregorio Marañón wrote that in the Paellas and stews entire Valencian coast “the paella The recipes of rice coexist with the secrets of the reigns, with dazzling and varied glory”. This land is, without doubt, the kingdom old stew pots of the rice dishes, which in Valencia makes up the classical name of paella – with vegetables and snails, chicken and rabbit—and that afterwards opens like a 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:21 Página 95

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beautiful fan, through which the traveller products from the land nearest to the Requena and Utiel. It is the strong cuisine wants to journey, in a hundred variety of kitchen that serves us. But if the rice of the inland, that which includes game rice dishes, among which stand out dish es adapt to the land, and near the in the right season and that which is those with seafood. Arròs a banda or of sea they are cooked in thin paellas, in the devoted to pork and its variables. In the fish and seafood; fideuà (noodle dish); mountain we will find the cuisine of the Maestrazgo, in the highlands bordering juicy or dry rice dishes; baked rice, with stew pots. It is the cuisine of the cold on Teruel, the stews slowly prepared vegetables, with cod and cauliflower, rice lands, which awaits us in the Rincón de over firewood flames or the domestic presented in all the seasons and with the Ademuz and farther to the west of pots with their adorable aroma. 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:21 Página 96

GASTRONOMY

Central Market. Valencia. 39° 28’ 23.82” N 0° 22’ 42.06” W

Designations of Origin At present, the Designations of Origin of harvested and elaborated products in the Region of Valencia are the following: 056-97 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 3/12/15 8:21 Página 97

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Grasses, fruit Wines, Liqueurs and Cava Sausages and vegetables Designations of Origin Protected Geographic Indication Designations of Origin • Alicante. • Handcrafted and Quality sausages • Rice of Valencia. • Utiel-Requena. of Requena. • Artichokes of Benicarló. • Valencia. • Chufa of Valencia. • Cava. • Kaki of the banks of the Xúquer. Sweets Protected Geographic Indication • Packaged table grapes of Vinalopó. Specific designations • Jijona and Turrón of Alicante • Medlar of Callosa d’En Sarrià. • Wine from the land of Castellón. • Oil of the Region of Valencia. • Traditional spirits from Alicante: - Paloma Anisette of Monforte del Protected Geographic Indication Cid. • Valencian citrus fruit. - Coffee Aperitif of Alcoy. • Cherries of the Mountain of Alicante - Cantueso of Alicante. - Herbero of the Sierra de Mariola. 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:51 Página 98

FESTIVALS

Fallas. Valencia.

Valencian people love festivals. Men and creativity as they dedicate to work. The Once again, diversity and contrast will women, children and elders live participation, street ambiance, the use be present in this sphere of life. Thus, in passionately, throughout the whole of music and gunpowder and a great the Valencian regions we will find a year, with every type of festival, religious ability for flamboyance and baroque celebration as ancient as the Misteri and secular, ancient and modern. expression are characteristics that are d’Elx, a liturgical representation of Valencians submerge themselves in the repeated throughout the entire Region medieval origin, which evokes the festivals with the same intensity and of Valencia when its time for a festival. death and ascension of the Virgin... 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:51 Página 99

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Cremà – Fallas. Valencia Misteri d’Elx.

A people in love with festivals and tradition The Misteri d’Elx, the Tomatina, Las Fallas, La Magdalena, Holy Week and Carnival

The sacral-lyrical drama is represented noticeably grown internationally in very than 125 tons of tomatoes thrown by each year in August, in the Basilica of few years. It is the Tomatina, in Buñol, the public, smashed and finally crushed. Santa María and is one of the most a festival in which thousands of Dozens of televisions around the world solemn spectacles of popular young people, men and women, get come to the town the last Wednesday of participation and fervour. involved in a unique ripe tomato August to witness and broadcast the In another sense, a modern festival, fight which results in flooding the unique battle. noisy, with powerful visual impact, has streets of the town in a sauce of no less 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:51 Página 100

FESTIVALS

Las Fallas of Valencia and the Romería people meet in front of City Hall to old city was. The pilgrim, who carries a de les Canyes of Castellón de la Plana watch the mascletà, a noisy display of cane, receives the rotllo, a circular bread are two festivals with a large popular pyrotechnics. Thousands of Valencians, that recalls the food of the old pilgrims participation, but different in their accompanied by dozens of music in their transfer from Castell Vell to La projection, style and objectives. In the bands travel the city streets towards the Plana. The fireworks, music, traditional Fallas, hundreds of committees each basilica of La Virgen in order to make an clothing will also be typical of this year are in charge of building an artistic offering of flowers. In Castellón de la festival, where the memory of the monument of cardboard and wood, Plana, the Romería de les Canyes pilgrim’s lights will become Les Gaiates, with images and scenes that satirise evokes the pilgrimage that the city’s triumphal and colourful carts that are and criticise matters of life, which will founders took from their old location to profusely lighted. be burned on the night of the 19th the new one. Today, they return to the March. Each day, at 2 p.m., thousands of hermitage of the Magdalena, where the 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:51 Página 101

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Romería de Les Canyes. Castellón de la Plana.

Holy Week is celebrated in many Moncada and Benetússer, and Valencian towns, where it is towns and cities of the Region of solemnity in Alzira, Gandia and Sagunt. celebrated with very high public Valencia. And although it evokes But the profound tradition of the participation and an unusual richness identical historical events and equal procession on Palm Sunday takes on of resources and clothing. That is what religious mysteries, it acquires very special meaning in Elx, from where the happens in Vinaròs. Considering all this, different nuances and forms wherever it palms of the festival come, as well as Villar del Arzobispo, in Valencia, and takes place. Austere in the northern and the richness and high participation in Pego in the province of Alicante, also interior lands, the religious festival the processional parades of Orihuela celebrate eye-catching festivals with a becomes more brilliant and colourful and Crevillent. In another very different very long tradition. on the seashore, as can be seen in direction, the Carnival, which took In all of them there are satirical parades Valencia’s fishing quarters. There are place in the cities during the 19th with ancient origins and references to representations of the Passion in century, has been recovered in some His Majesty Carnestoltes. 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:51 Página 102

FESTIVALS

Moors and Christians. Alcoy. 38° 42’ 07.23” N 0° 28’ 37.91” W

Dozens of Valencian towns, especially unique, luxurious and well-known as the accompaniment of musicians, of the province of Alicante and the throughout the world is the one mounted riders and carriages. southern part of the province of celebrated each year in the city of Gunpowder makes up a substantial Valencia, celebrate festivals to Alcoy. It takes place in April, in part of the noisy festival: the entrance evoke the old struggles between honour of Sant Jordi and is a of the Moorish and Christian squads, Moors and Christians in medieval spectacular attraction because of the the Alardo (battle), the Estafeta times. But it is evident that the richness and colour of the clothes of (running of the Moor), the embassies festival that is the oldest, most all the “filaes” who participate, as well and the appearance of the Saint are 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:51 Página 103

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Muixeranga. Algemesí. 39° 11’ 37.92” N 0° 26’ 05.13” W The festivals of the Valencian people Moors and Christians and La Muixeranga

key moments in the festival. In Petrer, find another festival with is proof of it in the 18th century, Elda, Ontinyent, Bocairent, Crevillent, profound religious roots, which is although they are older than that, Cocentaina, l’Olleria, Villena, Callosa expressed in the streets through an without a doubt. The clothing of the d’En Sarrià and Vila Joiosa, among attractive series of plastic paintings, dancers, the music and the street many other towns and areas, the dances and human towers. The performances evoke battle traveller will find festivals of this kind. festival, declarated Intangible Heritage representations. Spectacular human However, during the first days of of Humanity, is organised around towers, dressed in colourful stripes, September, in Algemesí, we will Nuestra Señora de la Salud, and there where a boy climbs to the top of four 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:51 Página 104

FESTIVALS

Festivals of tourist interest

Noisy and extroverted. Made for abundance, ostentation and noise. This is what the most famous Valencian festivals are like. Dedicated to fire and gunpowder, to pyrotechnics, uproar and the pleasure of marching to the beat of the music. Here we have the main Valencian festivals, for every taste and budget. Throughout the decades the most important have been highlighted for their international, national and local tourism value. In all of them the traveller will find guaranteed fun, friendship and entertainment in the streets. 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:51 Página 105

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Festivals of International Tourism Interest Festivals of Tourism Interest in Autonomus Region • Alcoi. Fiestas de Moros y Cristianos • Alacant. Semana Santa • Alicante. Hogueras de San Juan • Altea. El Castell de L’Olla • Buñol. La Tomatina • Benicarló. Fallas. Festa de la Carxofa • Castellón. Fiestas de la Magdalena • Benidorm. Escenificación del Hallazgo de la Virgen del • Crevillent. Semana Santa Sufragio • Elx. El Misteri d’Elx. Procesión del Domingo de Ramos • Bétera. Festa de les Alfàbegues a la Mare de Déu d’Agost • Orihuela. Semana santa • Buñol. Concierto Mano a Mano • Segorbe. Entrada de Toros y Caballos • Calpe. Moros y Cristianos • Torrevieja. Certamen Internacional de Habaneras y • Canals. Fiestas En Honor a San Antonio Abad Polifonía • Cocentaina. La Fira de Tots Sants • Valencia. Fallas de San José • Cullera. Festa a la Mare de Déu del Castell • Vila Joiosa. Moros y Cristianos • Elx. Nit de L’Albà • Forcall. Fiestas de Sant Antoni (Santantonà) Festivals of National Tourism Interest • Grao de Castellón. Festes de Sant Pere • Alcoi. Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos • Guardamar del Segura. Moros i Cristians en Honor a Sant • Alzira. Semana Santa. Fallas Jaume • Bañeres. Fiestas de Moros y Cristianos en Honor de San • Ibi. Festes d’Hivern Jorge Mártir • L’Alfàs del Pi. Festival de Cine • Bocairent. Fiestas de Moros y Cristianos • Manises. Cabalgata de la Cerámica y Festa de la Cerámica • Cocentaina. Fira de Tots Sants • Oliva. Moros y Cristianos • Crevillente. Moros y Cristianos • Orihuela. Moros y Cristianos • Dénia. Els Bous a la Mar • Paterna. La Cordà • Morella. Anunci i el Sexenni • Requena. Muestra del Embutido Artesano y de Calidad • Ontinyent. Fiestas de Moros y Cristianos • Sagunto. Falles de Sagunt • Peñíscola. Fiestas patronales en honor de la Virgen de • Segorbe. Feria de la Purísima Ermitana • Torrent. Semana Santa. Fallas • Sagunto. Semana Santa. Fallas • Vinaròs. Carnaval. Semana Santa • Segorbe. Fiestas Patronales • Xàtiva. Fallas • Valencia. Semana Santa Marinera • Vall d’Uixó. Fiestas Patronales de San Vicente Ferrer. Fiestas More festivals of Provincial and Local Interest: Patronales en honor a la Sagrada Familia y el Santísimo Cristo www.comunitatvalenciana.com • Villena. Fiestas de Moros y Cristianos. • Xàbia. Ajedrez Viviente • Xàtiva. Feria de Agosto

Festivals of Tourism Interest • Algemesi. Fiesta de la Mare de Deu de La Salut • Callosa d’ Ensarrià. Moros y Cristianos en honor de La Virgen de las Injurias • Callosa de Segura. La Pasión • Cocentaina. Moros y Cristianos en honor a San Hipólito • Elda. Moros y Cristianos • Gandia. Semana Santa. Fallas • Guadassuar. Danzas • L’ Olleria. Fiestas de Moros y Cristianos • Moncada. Misterio de la Pasión • Petrer. Fiestas Hispano-Árabes en honor de San Bonifacio • Requena. Feria y Fiestas de la Vendimia • Sueca. Fiesta del Arroz 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:51 Página 106

SPORTS

Port of Dénia. Alicante. 38° 50’ 16.93” N 0° 7’ 17.69” E

Sea and seamanship

The personality and beauty of the destinations are available with the best interest in sea sports, among coast in the Region of Valencia, the quality and services. Valencians as well as among characteristics of its winds, climate The celebration in Valencia of the thousands of visitors who decided to and landscape make it ideal for America’s Cup, the oldest sailing practice their favourite sport the practicing every type of sport and competition in the world, served to waters of the Region of Valencia. activity related to the sea. From renew old local hobbies for everything Valencia had thousands of visitors north to south, nautical clubs, marinas nautical, to reactivate many sporting during the four years of competition. and nautical companies from tourist projects and considerably increase Alicante has joined the cities that feel a 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:51 Página 107

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passion for the sea and, since October extraordinary prestige to the Valencian those who practice nautical sports on 2008, it is known worldwide for the coast, where there are several the Valencian coasts. In an exceptional honour of being the starting point for available marinas or operative dry landscape, the nautical tourist can the Volvo Ocean Race, the hardest docks and nautical clubs of which always be assisted in sailing, renting and most prestigious ocean regatta in some have been awarded with a blue any type of craft, practicing surfing or the world, which ended in St. flag as a reward for excellence in their diving, or any kind of maritime Petersburg in 2009 and the race has its nautical facilities and the excellent excursions. The nautical stations of permanent headquarters in Alicante. service they offer to the users. The Marina Alta and Benicarló-Peñíscola These events have reactivated the nautical stations are the result of a are available for the sportsmen of the sailing passion and have given vocation to give excellent service to sea. 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:51 Página 108

SPORTS

In recent years, the coast of the beaches of the four Valencian tourism windsurfing or kitesurfing. Region of Valencia has become an destinations be ideal for this battle The extensive sandy grounds to the ideal place to practice the new water against the waves and the winds that north of the city of Valencia, as well as sports. The good wind system, the many amateurs enjoy. Well marked, those of the south of the province of fidelity and regularity of the warm with the uses duly regulated, the Valencia and those of the north of breezes, make during a large part of the Valencian beaches are prepared for Alicante, especially the beach of year, not just in summer, numerous exercising sports such as surfing, Dénia, are very popular because of 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:51 Página 109

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On the waves, under the water

the regularity and strength with and professional will find all that Sierra de Irta, the possibilities of which the winds blow. they have dreamed of: impressive diving make this sport a fascinating The coast, in turn, offers excellent underwater landscapes and an adventure. conditions for practicing scuba unbeatable wealth of flora and diving and skin diving. fauna. In the protected areas, like the In safe and not very deep water, of a Columbretes, the island of Tabarca, crystalline transparency, the amateur Serra Gelada and the coast of the 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:51 Página 110

SPORTS

Golf as an attraction

The celebration in the Mediterráneo of this sport in the Region of Valencia. offer them the best practice of the sport Country Club of Borriol of the There are more than thirty golf courses, in a setting of their dreams. There are Castelló Masters golf tournament has designed by the most qualified those that have been located at the meant a great support for the projection specialists in this sport, that wait for the edge of the sea, like that of El Saler, of the facilities dedicated to the practice national and international players to in the city of Valencia, that is 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:51 Página 111

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El Saler Golf Course. Valencia. 39° 19' 9.51" N 0° 18' 5.43" W

considered one of the best laid out in them throughout all the seasons of the for the courses, photos, weather Europe. From north to south, all the year, with the best facilities. information and live pictures through courses of the Region of Valencia are The visitor will find abundant the webcams of the tourist portal in located in typically Mediterranean information on what is necessary to play Internet of the Region of Valencia. landscapes, and guaranteed by a on them: services, characteristics of the climate that makes it possible to play on course, location, accesses, map and card 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:51 Página 112

SPORTS

Villamartín Golf Course. Orihuela. 37° 56' 42.12" N 0° 47' 06.39" W 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:51 Página 113

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MEDITERRANEAN SEA

Elx Escuela de Golf Elche 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:51 Página 114

ADVENTURE

Active tourism

Routes and paths

In the most beautiful and steep spots hiker will be safe, and he will be Tinença of Benifassà, to the north, to of the Region of Valencia, the traveller enjoying enviable tranquillity in a the Vega Baja of the Vinalopó, to the will find a complete network of paths pleasant and healthy setting. The south, the four Valencian tourist of Long and Short Routes. For those traveller will find, in all the districts, destinations offer dozens of routes for interested in hiking, this is the surest detailed information on the routes excursions, with very diverse degrees way to get into the Valencian nature: that one can follow, both on foot as of difficulty. It is the best way to get to perfectly marked, the so-called GR-7, well as on bicycle and other means of know the Sierra Calderona or that of GR-10, GR-33, GR-36, GR-37 and GR- transportation, in order to get to know the Espadán, the proximities of Mariola 125 cross the geography of the region in depth the best spots of each and the valleys and peaks of the north from north to south and from east to province. Springs, woods, rivers and of Alicante. west, while linking the large urban caves... everything allows us unhurried masses. In any place, at any time, the discovery, near to nature. From the 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:51 Página 115

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Caves of Sant Josep. La Vall d’Uixó. Castellón. 39° 49’ 39.97” N 0° 15’ 7.97”

Caves and cliffs

The orography of the inland allows the La Vall d’Uixó, in the province of offers the possibility of practicing practice of highly specialised sports or Castellón, the underground river of different adventure and open-air scientific endeavours, such as the Grutas de Sant Josep runs sports. Besides the mountain speleology. The catalogue of caves of through a spectacular natural cave crossings, in the region’s inlands one the Region of Valencia includes 134 that can be visited in boats with one can practice mountain climbing, places especially interesting for their of the longest underground river classical and as a sport, ascent, beauty, their qualities and for their courses of Europe. Other abysses canoeing, crossing ravines and hang fauna. Some of these caves have been (avencs), caves and cavities have gliding. adapted for tourist visits such as that significant difficulty and are reserved of the Rull in the Vall d’Ebo, the exclusively for professionals equipped Calaveres in Benidoleig, Canelobre with the best speleological means. in Busot and Don Juan in Jalance. In Leisure in the Region of Valencia also 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:52 Página 116

ADVENTURE

Cabriel River. Valencia. 39º 26’ 42.89” N 1º 31’ 23.73” W

Going down the river

The inlands of the Region of Júcar, between Cofrentes and the voyagers catch all the passion of a Valencia have places that are Cortes dam, enjoying a wide canyon descent charged with emotion. surprising for their variety and overlooked by forests, peaks and Although the inflatable rafts are a very areas little explored where the castles hanging from the cliffs. On popular possibility, one can also traveller will find unusual board an inflatable raft, in the current descend the Cabriel river in canoes. experiences. Among many others, of a white-water river, it is possible to For those who like adventure and that go from hiking to climbing, there experience an impressive adventure. emotion, but also for those who look is the possibility of getting to know In the Region of Valencia, where for the peaceful contemplation of nature by following the course of a everything is possible, this option is nature, there are always charming river. The Valencian reservoirs offer, for open. In an area difficult to forget, in places prepared for the enjoyment of example, the possibility of navigating the Hoces, the Cabriel river runs the traveller. through the dammed up water of the through narrow passes and the 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:52 Página 117

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Going everywhere by bicycle

Cycling conquers the thirst for especially for bicycles, that have goes into the province of Teruel, nearly sports of thousands of Valencians, originated by means of a careful 100 kilometres more. In Valencia, finally, on the routes on the coastal plain process of adapting the former railroad there are two other sections, in La Safor as well as on those that go up the tracks into paths designed for and the Xurra track, prepared for bicycle inland mountains. From this generic excursions on mountain or touring excursions. Furthermore, the love of the bicycle has emerged, bicycles. In Alicante, there are five green Valencian Regional Government is naturally, the love of cycling routes prepared, with more than fifty developing a network of ATB (all excursions, cyclotourism, which in few kilometres in all. In Castellón and terrain bicycle) centres for practicing years has managed to organise in the Valencia, the former mining route from this tourism modality in the Region of entire region a series of routes that the Ojos Negros to Sagunt offers 70 Valencia and for discovering the cyclotourist can get to know during conditioned kilometres with an territory in contact with the his stay. There are green routes, excellent landscape, although then it environment. 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:52 Página 118

HEALTH

Health through water

Since time immemorial, the from all over Spain. If on the beaches Hervideros de Cofrentes, Fuente Valencians have known and enjoyed gathered those who had received Podrida and the spas of Chulilla and the quality and the therapeutic doctor’s orders for wave baths, the of Verche, in the district of the properties of a series of springs inland spas received summer Serranos, province of Valencia, and backed by history. During the 18th vacationers that looked for the the healthy waters of Benasal, of and 19th centuries, some spas beneficial effects of different types of Vilavella and Montanejos, in offered thermalism, calm and water and the added wellbeing of a Castellón. However, in just a decade, wellbeing to successive generations few days of vacation. the world of the spas in the Region of families of the adjacent areas, to In this classical world stand out of Valencia has been radically which were added travellers coming accredited names such as those of transformed in harmony with the 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:52 Página 119

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new demands of the society, so that true meaning. In fact, all the top- offer the highest quality, whether all the traditional installations have level and luxury hotels now have they are the recently renovated become modernised and have magnificent installations in which classic installations or the modern placed at the service of the visitors water treatments complement the services located in newly built the results of the strictest quality. massage services and other hotels. The classical balnearios are now refinements. accompanied by numerous facilities In the tourism offices, the traveller in which the three magical letters of will find detailed information on the SPA (salus per aquam, health establishments, and of the offer through water) have taken on their available in all of them. They will all 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:52 Página 120

SHOPPING

Tradition and design

In the Region of Valencia, going Because once more, in the Region of commercial streets where the most shopping is an added pleasure for Valencia, there is the double aspect demanding and exclusive taste will the trip. No matter where we may be, that makes everything compatible: the have at its disposal the latest trends in a large city or a vacation town: the large fashion stores and the warm fashion on streets where the best variety of the offer, the quality of traditional markets go hand in hand in brands and the most select boutiques whatever we may encounter will the towns and cities. gather. Fashion, household linen, always provide an added value to In the principal capitals of the Region footwear, costume jewellery and fine dedicating some hours to shopping. of Valencia, the visitor will find jewellery stores combine their offers 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:52 Página 121

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Shopping area. Pedestrian street Don Juan de Austria. Valencia. 39° 28’ 13.59” N 0° 22’ 24.86”W

with those of the stores dedicated to world of fashion and design. cities and towns, the small stores have decoration and design, with the most Valencian firms of prestige offer the also known how to maintain the exclusives novelties. latest productions, whether in the field tradition inherited from past eras and In the large cities, furthermore, the of haute couture or jewellery or in continue maintaining the best of their traveller will find, together with the others no less attractive such as arguments in the personal service to national and international brands, furnishings, footwear and lighting. the client. those of the Valencian designers Besides the large shopping centres, in that have dynamically accessed the the historical centres of the Valencian 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:52 Página 122

SHOPPING

El Castell de Guadalest. 30° 40’ 35.18” N 0° 11’ 55.02” W

Charming areas

A few steps from the most promenades of the coast boil with ingenious creators of modern times. distinguished stores, the traveller activity in the summer afternoons. All coexist in the shopping centres of will find a pleasant surprise. Everything is possible, here and there, the tourist areas, where the most It is the unexpected, perhaps the in the places of the Region of recent is probably being created in unusual: carefree fashion, or the most Valencia where commerce sprouts view of the purchaser. Next to them, recent creation by a valiant designer each day and the creative activity the Valencian handicrafts most of a firm in expansion. Altea and reconstructs itself with the urgency of deeply rooted in tradition, fans, wood Peñíscola, Canet d’En Berenguer, an alert and innovating sense. and wicker furniture, ceramics, glass, Gandia and Santa Pola; the Craftsmen of the traditional line and iron and leather coexist with the 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:52 Página 123

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2” W

handicrafts that work with costume shops and the bargain markets. furniture for decorating rural areas, jewellery, gold and silver. The Centro The Region of Valencia also offers clothing, paintings, books, lamps and de Artesanía (handicraft centre) of the flea markets in which the antiques record go on sale together with farm Region of Valencia endorses with its make way for the passion of implements, pitchers and all kinds of own seal the excellent quality discovering great hidden values. traces of the past suitable for workmanship of the Valencian In the towns of La Marina in Alicante decoration and collecting. products. these markets are famous and move However, there is still space in the thousands of persons each week: cities and tourist areas for the antique classical and specific pieces of 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:52 Página 124

THE NIGHT

Time stops at night on the coast of The night is for everyone the Region of Valencia. With the help of an enviable climate, the promenades, the ports and terraces offer, during the greater part of the year, an atmosphere in which peacefulness takes over the senses. The night, from north to south, at the edge of the sea, but also in the inland areas, becomes a parenthesis where 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:52 Página 125

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the clock doesn’t count. event with an action-packed still finds that its raison d’être is open Benidorm is the main reference of collective rhythm. in any area of the coast. an intense nightlife. Cosmopolitan, The coast of the Region of Valencia is But very close by, there is the other brilliant, always in movement, the city full of peaceful sites where it is still side of the coin: the bars, pubs, of the high towers is as active during possible to find the serenity of a terraces and discotheques convert the day as it is after sundown. All the candle-lit dinner. For a truly restful free time in a series of opportunities, shows parade through its halls and vacation, you will find terraces that rich in entertainment and surprises. discotheques. And the tourist himself, overlook the sea, hidden ports, coves When night falls, thousands of young of a hundred different nationalities, is with discrete lighting. The possibility people ready to have fun to the at the same time part of a choral of enjoying a calm in which nature rhythm of their favourite music, go out 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:52 Página 126

THE NIGHT

Square Sant Jaume. Barrio del Carmen. Valencia 39° 28’ 34.78” N 0° 22’ 49.25” W

in search of some hours of diversion. In the phrase forms part of a rite of the street Caballeros. This street, along this atmosphere, entertainment and nocturnal and collective diversion: in with those of Serranos, Quart, Guillem pleasure are guaranteed. Valencia there are districts, like El de Castro and Blanquerías, are of the Being “under the Valencian moon” Carmen, where the city seems never most attractive in the Valencian night. meant, formerly, arriving late to the to rest. Between the plaza of Sant Experiencing the night is one of the walled city, finding the doors closed Jaume and that of Tossal, there is a most intensely exciting events that and having to sleep on the ground, flow of people that come and go from one can have in Valencia. outside the protected area. Nowadays, one pub to another, in the proximity of During most of the year, the climate 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:52 Página 127

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invites you to go out, even if it is to Gandia and Cullera, Santa Pola and of the Malva-rosa beach is famous; and walk through solitary streets. Valencia, Torrevieja, Altea and Xàbia, along the entire coast, dozens of which is one of the best lighted cities, Benicàssim, Peñíscola and Vinaròs. places wait to offer the tourist is safe at all hours. The most intense All the Valencian beaches have a diversion and pleasure during the life, the energy, is easy to find in Ciutat promenade that becomes the night time hours, whether you look for Vella, a group of historical centre of attraction on the hot serenity and silence or your preference neighbourhoods that were famous for summer nights. is for a more intense enjoyment. their activity hundreds of years ago. In the city of Valencia the atmosphere 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:52 Página 128

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

www.comunitatvalen

A window to the Region of Valencia

Welcome to the portal of the and bluest waters of the prestigious professionals of this Region of Valencia, an online site Mediterranean, the clearest skies of sport, with locations of your dreams in which you can get to know first the coast, spectacular places, next to the sea or in beautiful inland hand the entire tourist offer and picturesque mountain towns and spot. All with an excellent climate comfortably your vacation from the towns, streets, plazas and year round. home. Consult the information of all monuments that form part of the the tourist sites in real time, simply Heritage of Humanity. • A complete guide to any type of and pleasantly; participate and share nautical activity in the Region of your interests with other visitors. • In the beach section you can find Valencia, privileged destination of all the information on hundreds of mild temperatures and beautiful • You can get to know and enjoy kilometres of coast for enjoying an coast for practicing all the water live, 24 hours a day, the best tourist unforgettable vacation. Beaches sports, both on the surface and destinations of the Region of with the blue flag, accessible, nudist, under the blue waters of the Valencia through the largest and all the weather information for Mediterranean. Regatta courses, network of tourist webcams, and enjoying the Mediterranean Sea marinas, nautical clubs, scuba diving the most updated weather when you want and how you want. and snorkelling areas, sailing, information. The most emblematic windsurfing, etc. A paradise for the places, the large events, the coves • All the information on the golf lovers of nautical sports in all its with the most charm, the cleanest courses designed by the most modalities. 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:52 Página 129

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alenciana.com

Origin, vegetables, fish, sausages, grounds and tourist apartments sweets, wine...all the information of of the Region of Valencia. the enormous wealth that the cuisine of the Region of Valencia • Videos, photos, specialised • Complete holds. A true delight for the senses, forums, trip logbooks, downloads information on each and every one of beyond the paella and the rice of publications in PDF, guides for the protected areas, natural parks, dishes, with an infinity of recipes mobile telephone, tablets ... sierras, coast, coastal or inland resulting from the wisdom of its Discover the endless number of routes … an Eden for any fan of rural inhabitants and of the natural services that we put at your disposal tourism. As well as the emblematic products that the land offers. and experience the Region of areas dedicated to diversion, cultural Valencia for yourself. and scientific dissemination, the • Not to speak of the extensive and theme parks or the protection of the detailed information on the environment, such as Terra Mítica, the festivals, the centres that teach Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias or Spanish, the areas dedicated to the Bioparc. fairs, conferences and business meetings, suggestions of routes • And if what you like are the and excursions and all the offer of www.comunitatvalenciana.com gastronomic trips, Designations of rural lodging, hotels, camp [email protected] 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:52 Página 130

Network of tourist information offices of the Valencian Regional Government

ALICANTE BENIDORM - AUTOBUSES EL CAMPELLO - PLAYA MUCHA- FINESTRAT - POBLE ORIHUELA - PLAYA TORREVIEJA AGOST Av. Francisco Llorca Antón, 1 VISTA Plaça del Poble,5 Pl. del Oriol ,1 Paseo Vista Alegre, s/n. Av. Xixona,2 - 03698 Agost Est. Autobuses Av. Jaime I, El Conquistador 03509 Finestrat (Urbanización Playa Flamenca) 03181 Torrevieja Tel. 965691869 03502 Benidorm (frente Urb. Tobago) Tel. 965878834 03189 Orihuela Tel. 965703433 [email protected] Tel. 966831648 03560 El Campello fi[email protected] Tel. 966760000 [email protected] AGRES [email protected] Tel. 965637200 GATA [email protected] TORREVIEJA - CENTRO C/ Mayor, s/n - 03837 Agres BENIDORM - RINCON LOIX [email protected] Av. Marina Alta,14 ORIHUELA - CENTRO Pl. Constitución,1 Tel. 965510001 Av. Derramador, s/n EL CASTELL DE GUADALEST 03740 Gata de Gorgos Pl. Soledad,1 03181 Torrevieja [email protected] (confluencia C/ Gerona) Av. Alicante, s/n (aparcamiento) Tel 965757317 03300 Orihuela Tel. 965710250 ALBATERA 03503 Benidorm 03517 El Castell de Guadalest [email protected] Tel. 965304645 [email protected] C/ San Antonio,26 Tel. 966805914 Tel. 965885298 GUARDAMAR [email protected] TORREVIEJA - PASEO MARÍTI- 03340 Albatera [email protected] [email protected] Pl. de la Constitución, 7 PEGO I LES VALLS MO Paseo Marítimo. Playa del Cura Tel. 965487902 BENISSA [email protected] 03140 Guardamar del Segura Carretera de Dénia, s/n (Esquina c/ Sant Rafael) 03182 Torrevieja [email protected] Av. Pais Valencià,97 EL PINÓS Tel 965724488 Carretera de Murcia, s/n 03780 Pego Tel. 966702284 ALCOY 03720 Benissa [email protected] Tel. 965732225 (Centro de Recursos Casa del Tel. 966400843 VILLENA - ALTA VELOCIDAD Pl. de España,14 IBI [email protected] Vino) [email protected] Estación Ferrocarril Villena-AVE 03801 Alcoi C/ Doctor Waksman,5 BENISSA - PLAYA 03650 El Pinós - Tel. 966966043 PETRER Partida San Juan Tel. 965537155 03440 Ibi Av. de la Marina, 307 [email protected] C/ Cura Bartolomé Muñoz,2 03400 Villena Tel. 965551296 [email protected] 03720 Benissa EL POBLE NOU DE BENITAT- 03610 Petrer Tel. 672741271 [email protected] ALICANTE - AYUNTAMIENTO Tel. 966498361 XELL Tel. 966989401 [email protected] L'ALFÀS DEL PI Pl. Ayuntamiento,1 [email protected] C/ Mercado,1 [email protected] VILLENA 03002 Alicante VILA DE BIAR 03726 El Poble Nou de C/ Federico García Lorca, 11 [email protected] Pl. de Santiago,5 Tel. 965149219 C/ Cura Reig,1 - 03410 Biar Benitatxell (bajos Ayto.) PILAR DE LA HORADADA 03400 Villena [email protected] Tel. 965811177 Tel. 966493546 03580 L'Alfàs del Pi Pl. Campoamor, 2 Tel. 966150236 ALICANTE [email protected] [email protected] Tel. 965888905 03190 Pilar de la Horadada [email protected] Av. Rambla Méndez Núñez, 41 CALPE - PEÑÓN EL VERGER [email protected] Tel. 966767068 XÀBIA - CENTRE (Torre de la Generalitat) Av. Ejércitos Españoles,30 Pl. del Ayuntamiento,1 L'ALFÀS DEL PI - PLATJA [email protected] Pl. de la Iglesia,4 03002 Alicante 03710 Calpe 03770 El Verger - Tel. 966439551 Paseo de las Estrellas SAN FULGENCIO 03730 Xàbia Tel. 965200000 Tel. 965836920 [email protected] Platja de l'Albir,2 C/ Amsterdam, s/n Tel. 965794356 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 03581 L'Alfàs del Pi Urbanización la Marina [email protected] ALICANTE - PLAYA SAN JUAN CALLOSA D'EN SARRIÀ ELDA Tel. 966867022 03177 San Fulgencio XÀBIA - PORT Av. de Niza, s/n. C/ Sant Antoni,2 C/ Nueva,14 [email protected] Tel. 966790021 Pl. Almirante Bastarreche, 11 (Junto Cruz Roja) 03510 Callosa d'En Sarrià 03600 Elda LA VILA JOIOSA [email protected] 03730 Xàbia 03540 Alicante Tel. 965880153 Tel. 966980300 C/ Colón, 40 SAN MIGUEL DE SALINAS Tel. 965790736 Tel. 965266106 [email protected] [email protected] (Chalet Centella) Juan Carlos I, 1 [email protected] [email protected] CALLOSA DE SEGURA ELS POBLETS 03570 La Vila Joiosa 03193 San Miguel de Salinas XÁBIA - ARENAL ALICANTE - RENFE C/ Mayor,31 Carrer del Mestre Vicent,32 Tel. 966851371 Tel. 966723466 Ctra. Cabo de la Nao-Pla, 136. Av. Salamanca, s/n. 03360 Callosa de Segura 03779 Els Poblets [email protected] [email protected] Residencial La Pl. (Estación Ferrocarril Renfe) Tel. 966198451 966475352 MONFORTE DEL CID SANT VICENT DEL RASPEIG 03730 Xàbia 03005 Alicante [email protected] [email protected] Pl. de España,1 Pl. España, 1 Tel. 966460605 Tel. 965125633 CASTALLA ELX 03670 Monforte del Cid 03690 Sant Vicent del Raspeig [email protected] [email protected] Pl. Mayor,3 - 03420 Castalla Plaça del Parc,3 Tel. 965626417 Tel. 965660104 VALL DE POP ALMORADÍ Tel. 966561018 03202 Elx [email protected] [email protected] Paseo de la Alameda, s/n Pl. de la Constitución, s/n [email protected] Tel. 966658196 MURO SANTA POLA - CENTRO (Carretera de Alcalalí) 03160 Almoradí COCENTAINA [email protected] Plaça Matzem,s/n Pl. Constitución, s/n 03727 Xaló Tel. 966783442 Pl. del Pla, s/n. AEROPUERTO DE ALICANTE - 03830 Muro de Alcoy 03130 Santa Pola Tel. 966481017 [email protected] [email protected] Patio de Armas Palau Comtal ELCHE Tel. 965532071 Tel. 966696052 [email protected] XIXONA ALTEA 03820 Cocentaina Aeropuerto Alicante-Elche. [email protected] Terminal llegadas. SANTA POLA - GRAN ALA- C/ Alcoy, 34-40, local 2 izquierda Pl. José María Planelles,1 Tel. 965590159 MUTXAMEL [email protected] 03195 Elx CANT 03100 Xixona 03590 Altea Av. Carlos Soler, 64 DÉNIA 966919367 Av. Escandinavia ,31 Tel. 965613014 Tel. 965844114 (Centro social José Bernabeu) C/ Manuel Lattur,1, local E [email protected] 03130 Santa Pola [email protected] [email protected] 03110 Mutxamel 03700 Dénia ELX - ELS ARENALS DEL SOL Tel. 966699762 BANYERES DE MARIOLA Tel. 965956441 Tel. 966422367 Av. San Bartolomé de Tirajana, 42 [email protected] VALENCIA [email protected] Parque de Villa Rosario, s/n [email protected] Arenales del Sol SANTA POLA NOVELDA CASTELL 03450 Banyeres de Mariola DÉNIA - PL. EL CONSELL 03195 Elx Pl. Diputación, s/n ADEMUZ Paraje Molinos, E-15 Tel. 965567453 Pl. El Consell, s/n Tel. 966658119 03130 Santa Pola C/ Fuente Vieja,10 - 46140 Ademuz [email protected] 03700 Dénia - Tel. 966423420 [email protected] 03660 Novelda Tel. 966692276 Tel. 978782267 BENIDORM - EUROPA [email protected] LA MARINA D'ELX Tel. 965609228 [email protected] [email protected] Av. Europa, s/n DOLORES Camino de los Ruices, s/n. [email protected] TEULADA - MORAIRA AIELO DE MALFERIT (cruce C/ Ibiza) Pl. General Llopis,1 La Marina d'Elx NOVELDA Av. Madrid,15 Av. del Santísimo Cristo,1 03503 Benidorm 03150 Dolores 03194 Elx C/ Mayor,6 03724 Teulada 46812 Aielo de Malferit Tel. 965860095 Tel. 966710363 Tel. 683375881 03660 Novelda Tel. 965745168 Tel. 962360720 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Tel. 965609228 [email protected] [email protected] BENIDORM - CENTRO EL CAMPELLO FINESTRAT [email protected] TORREVIEJA - LA MATA ALBORAYA - PORT SAPLAYA Pl. Canalejas, s/n - El Torrejó C/ San Bartolomé, 103 Av. Marina Baixa, 15 ONIL Ayuntamiento de La Mata Paseo Marítimo, s/n - Portsaplaya (antiguo Ayuntamiento) Esq. Ruperto Chapí Cala de Finestrat Pl. Mayor, 1- Palacio Municipal Pl. Gaspar Perelló, s/n Posta Sanitaria Alcamp 03501 Benidorm 03560 El Campello 03509 Finestrat 03430 Onil 03188 Torrevieja 46120 Alboraia Tel. 965851311 Tel. 965634606 Tel. 966801208 Tel. 965565365 Tel. 966928835 Tel. 963726673 [email protected] [email protected] fi[email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:52 Página 131

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ALBORAYA - PATACONA CULLERA - FARO LLÍRIA PILES SUMACÀRCER XERACO Pl. General Basset, s/n Pl. Faromar, s/n Pl. Mayor, 1 "Ca la Vila" Paseo Marítimo, s/n Pl. Mayor,1 Av. Migjorn, 2 (Posta sanitaria) 46400 Cullera 46160 Llíria 46712 Piles 46295 Sumacàrcer Playa de Xeraco 46120 Alboraia/Alboraya CULLERA - PLAYA Tel. 962791522 Tel. 674218265 Tel. 962595280 (Ayto.) 46770 Xeraco Tel. 661453284 Pl. Constitución, s/n [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Tel. 96 288 82 61 ALGEMESÍ 46400 Cullera LLUTXENT PUÇOL TAVERNES DE LA VALLDIGNA [email protected] C/ Nou del Convent, 71 Tel. 961731586 Av. de València,66 Av. Mediterráneo, s/n Av. Marina, s/n (Museu de la Festa) [email protected] 46838 Llutxent Espai Voramar Playa de Tavernes de la Valldigna CASTELLÓN 46680 Algemesí CULLERA Tel. 962294386 46530 Puçol 46760 Tavernes de la Valldigna Tel. 962018630 C/ Mar,93 [email protected] Tel. 669740119 Tel. 962885264 ALBOCÀSSER [email protected] 46400 Cullera VALENCIA - AEROPUERTO puç[email protected] [email protected] Carretera CV-15, La Pobla ALMÀSSERA Tel. 961720974 Terminal Aeropuerto Valencia EL PUIG ALTO TURIA Tornesa-Vilafranca, km 32 Pl. Mayor,1 - 46132 Almàssera [email protected] 46940 Manises Av. de la Estación, s/n Carretera CV-35, km.73 12003 Albocàsser Tel. 961853750 CHESTE Tel. 961530229 (Centro Cívico) 46177 Tuéjar Tel. 964428127 [email protected] C/ María Carbonell,14 infoturistica-aeropuerto@turisva- 46540 Puig Tel. 961635084 [email protected] ALPUENTE ALCOSSEBRE - ROMANA 46380 Cheste lencia.es Tel. 961959029 [email protected] Av. José Antonio,19 Playa La Romana, s/n Tel. 960616261 MANISES [email protected] UTIEL 46178 Alpuente QUESA C/ Puerta Nueva, 11 A Alcossebre [email protected] Av. del Tramvies,15 Tel. 962101228 Av. Valencia, 74 - 46824 Quesa 46300 Utiel 12579 Alcalà de Xivert [email protected] 46940 Manises [email protected] Tel. 962256142 Tel. 962170879 Tel. 964761195 CHULILLA Tel. 961525609 ALZIRA - PL. [email protected] [email protected] ALCOSSEBRE C/ de las Eras, s/n Pl. Mayor,s/n - 46600 Alzira [email protected] REQUENA VALENCIA - PAZ Pl. Vistalegre, s/n Tel. 961116776 46167 Chulilla [email protected] C/ García Montes, s/n C/ Paz, 48 12579 Alcalà de Xivert [email protected] Tel. 961657979 MIRAMAR 46340 Requena 46003 Valencia Tel. 964412205 ALZIRA [email protected] Av. de la Mediterrànea,60 Tel. 962303851 Tel. 963986422 [email protected] Pl. del Reino, s/n - 46600 Alzira DAIMÚS 46711 Miramar [email protected] [email protected] ALCALÀ DE XIVERT Tel. 962419551 Pl. Alcalde Francico Castelló, s/n Tel.962819101(Ayto.) RIBA-ROJA DE TÚRIA VALENCIA - JOAQUÍN Pl. de la Iglesia, s/n [email protected] 46710 Daimús [email protected] C/ Cisterna,30 SOROLLA 12570 Alcalà de Xivert ANNA Tel.962803822 MONTESA 46190 Riba-roja de Túria Estación Valencia Joaquín Sorolla Alcossebre C/ Mayor, s/n [email protected] C/ Dr. Fernández Villapedroso,5 Tel. 962772184 46007 Valencia Tel. 964410647 46820 Anna ENGUERA 46692 Montesa [email protected] Tel. 963803623 ALMASSORA Tel. 962210136 (Ayto.) C/ Patriarcas,4 Tel. 962299080 RÓTOVA [email protected] C/ San Vicente, 47 [email protected] 46810 Enguera [email protected] Pl. Mayor,7 - 46725 Rótova VALENCIA - PLAYA 12550 Almassora AYORA Tel. 962226026 MONTROI Tel. 962835316 Paseo de Neptuno, 2 Tel. 964561328 C/ San Francisco, s/n [email protected] C/ la Pau-Edif. Multiusos-Museo [email protected] (frente a Hotel Neptuno) [email protected] (Casa de la Cultura) GANDIA - PLAYA (FARO 2) Valenciano de la Miel, 35 SAGUNTO 46011 Valencia ALMENARA PLAYA 46620 Ayora Paseo Neptuno, s/n 46193 Montroy Pl. Cronista Chabret, s/n Tel. 963555899 Pl. del Mar Tel. 961890658 46730 Gandia Tel. 671644445 46500 Sagunto [email protected] (Playa de Casablanca), s/n [email protected] Tel. 962842407 [email protected] Tel. 962655859 VALENCIA FERIA 12590 Almenara BELLREGUARD GANDIA NÁQUERA [email protected] Av. de las Ferias, s/n Tel. 962623100 Paseo Marítimo, s/n Av. Marqués de Campo, s/n Paseo de las Delicias, s/n SAGUNTO - PLAYA 46035 Valencia [email protected] 46713 Bellreguard 46701 Gandia 46119 Náquera Av. del Mediterráneo, 67 Tel. 963986422 ALMENARA Tel. 962819320 Tel. 962877788 Tel. 961684398 Puerto de Sagunto VALENCIA - PL. DE LA REINA Av. País Valencià, s/n [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 46520 Sagunt Pl. de la Reina,19 12590 Almenara BOCAIRENT GANDIA - PLAYA (FARO 1) OLIVA Tel. 962690402 46002 Valencia Tel. 962623345 Pl. del Ayuntamiento, 2 Paseo Neptuno, s/n Passeig Lluis Vives, s/n [email protected] Tel. 963153931 [email protected] 46880 Bocairent 46730 Gandia 46780 Oliva SERRA [email protected] ALTURA Tel. 962905062 Tel. 962842407 Tel. 962855528 C/ Sagunt,31, bajo VALENCIA - AYUNTAMIENTO C/ Calvario,17 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 46118 Serra Pl. del Ayuntamiento, s/n 12410 Altura BUÑOL JALANCE OLIVA - PLAYA Tel. 961688404 (frente al Edif. de Correos) Tel. 964147075 Casa Señorial del Castillo de [email protected] C/ Targer, 2 - 46624 Jalance C/ Roger de Lauria,38 [email protected] 46002 Valencia Buñol ARES DEL MAESTRAT Tel. 961897171 46780 Oliva SILLA Tel. 963524908 46360 Buñol C/ Castell, s/n infoturistica-ayuntamiento@ Pl. de la Iglesia,1 [email protected] Tel. 962850391 Tel. 962503886 46460 Silla turisvalencia.es 12165 Ares del Maestrat LA FONT D'EN CARRÒS [email protected] [email protected] Tel. 961219797 VALENCIA - PUERTO Tel. 964443064 Pl. Ajuntament, 1 OLOCAU CANET D'EN BERENGUER [email protected] Muelle de Poniente, s/n [email protected] 46717 La Font d'En Carròs Paseo 9 de octubre C/ Sant Josep, 28 SIMAT DE LA VALLDIGNA 46024 Valencia BEJÍS 46529 Canet d'En Berenguer Tel. 962833338 (Casa de la Señoría) Paseo 9 d'Octubre, s/n Tel. 96 3674606 C/ Virgen de Loreto, 2 Tel.962607806 [email protected] 46169 Olocau 46750 Simat de la Valldigna infoturistica-puerto@ (bajos del Ayto.) [email protected] [email protected] Tel. 962739650 Tel. 962810920 turisvalencia.es 12430 Bejís RINCÓN DE ADEMUZ LA POBLA DE FARNALS [email protected] [email protected] VALENCIA - MARINA REAL Tel. 964120161 Paraje Los Centenares, s/n Pl. París, s/n ONTINYENT SUECA JUAN CARLOS I [email protected] 46141 Castielfabib 46137 La Pobla de Farnals Plaça de Sant Roc,2 C/ Mercat, s/n Muelle de la Aduana, s/n BENASSAL Tel. 978783227 Tel. 961460928 46870 Ontinyent 46410 Sueca Edificio del Reloj-Tinglado 2) C/ la Mola,8 [email protected] [email protected] Tel. 962916090 Tel. 962039150 46020 Valencia • Tel. 961 207 749 12160 Benasal COFRENTES CAMP DE TÚRIA [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Tel. 964442004 Pl. de España, 6 Pla de l'Arc PATERNA EL PERELLÓ XÀTIVA [email protected] 46625 Cofrentes Edificio Sede Mancomunidad C/ Médico Ballester, 23 Av. de Sueca, s/n Av. Alameda Jaume I, 50 BENICARLÓ Tel. 961894316 46160 Llíria 46980 Paterna 46420 El Perelló 46800 Xàtiva Pl. de la Constitución, s/n [email protected] Tel. 962793619 Tel. 963053124 Tel. 961772627 Tel. 962273346 12580 Benicarló • Tel. 964473180 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:52 Página 132

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

BENICÀSSIM - TORRE SAN LA VALL D'UIXÓ PEÑÍSCOLA - PEÑISMAR VICENTE Paraje San José, s/n Paseo Marítimo Norte, s/n Paseo Marítimo Bernat Artola, s/n 12600 La Vall d'Uixó (Faro de Peñismar) 12560 Benicàssim Tel. 964660785 12598 Peñíscola Tel. 964300102 [email protected] Tel. 964480208 [email protected] MONCOFA [email protected] BENICÀSSIM Av. Mare Nostrum,143 SANT MATEU C/ Santo Tomás, 76 - bajo 12593 Moncofa C/ Historiador Betí, 13 (Casa Abadía) Tel. 964588557 12170 Sant Mateu 12560 Benicàssim [email protected] Tel. 964416658 Tel. 964300102 MONTANEJOS [email protected] [email protected] Carretera de Tales SEGORBE BENICÀSSIM - HELIÓPOLIS (Vestíbulo Balneario) Pl. Alto Palancia,3 Av. Ferrandis Salvador, s/n 12448 Montanejos (Playa Heliópolis) 12400 Segorbe Tel. 964131153 Tel. 964713254 12560 Benicàssim [email protected] Tel. 964300102 [email protected] MORELLA [email protected] TÍRIG Pl. San Miguel,s/n BURRIANA Av. Gabriel Puig Roda,34 12300 Morella Pl. Mayor,1 12179 Tírig 12530 Borriana • Tel. 964570753 Tel : 964173032 Tel. 964418668 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] CABANES NAVAJAS TORREBLANCA PLAYA Pl. de la Iglesia, 4 Pl. del Olmo,1 Av. Castellón, s/n 12180 Cabanes 12470 Navajas 12596 Torreblanca Tel. 964657032 Tel : 964713913 Tel. 964425184 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] GRAO DE CASTELLÓN NULES TORREBLANCA Paseo Buenavista, 28 Pl. Mayor,1 Pl. Mayor,1 12100 Castelló de la Plana 12520 Nules 12596 Torreblanca T el. 964283621 Tel. 964670001 Tel. 964421212 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] CASTELLÓN NULES PLATGES TRAIGUERA C/ de l'Estany, s/n Pl. de la Hierba, s/n Santuario Fuente de la Salud 12520 Nules 12001 Castelló de la Plana 12330 Traiguera Tel. 964358688 Tel. 964675202 Tel. 964765869 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] CATÍ ONDA VILA-REAL C/ Llarguer, 68 - 12513 Catí C/ Ceramista Peyró, s/n C/ Raval de Sant Pasqual, 68 Tel. 964409015 12200 Onda 12540 Vila-real [email protected] Tel. 964602855 Tel. 964547248 CINCTORRES [email protected] Carrer Nou, 6 OROPESA DEL MAR [email protected] 12318 Cinctorres Pl. de París, s/n VILAFAMÉS Tel. 964181428 (Playa de la Concha) Pl. Ayuntamiento, 2 [email protected] 12594 Orpesa 12192 Vilafamés FORCALL Tel. 964312320 Tel. 964329970 Pl. Mayor, 36 [email protected] [email protected] 12310 Forcall [email protected] VILAFRANCA Tel. 964171290 OROPESA DEL MAR - C/ San Roque,1 [email protected] AMPLARIES 12150 Villafranca del Cid JÉRICA C/ Moscatel, s/n (Marina d'Or) Tel. 964441432 C/ del Río,2 12594 Orpesa [email protected] 12450 Jérica Tel. 964314134 VINARÒS - ZONA SUD Tel. 964128004 turismoamplaries@ Av. Pablo Béjar, s/n [email protected] oropesadelmar.es (Playa del Clot) L'ALCORA 12500 Vinaròs C/ Teixidors,5 PEÑÍSCOLA Paseo Marítimo, s/n [email protected] 12110 L'Alcora VINARÒS Tel. 964033099 12598 Peñíscola Paseo Colón,s/n [email protected] Tel. 964480208 12500 Vinaròs TINENÇA DE BENIFASSÀ peniscola@touristinfo.net Carretera La Senia-La P. Benifassà, PEÑÍSCOLA - TOBOSO Tel. 964453334 km. 5 Confluencia Av. Estación y [email protected] XILXES (junto Molí l'Abad) C/ Huerto, s/n COMUNITAT VALENCIANA C/ Colón, 11 12599 La Pobla de Benifassà 12598 Peñíscola BRUSELAS 12592 Xilxes Tel. 977576259 Tel. 964480208 AV. Edmond Mesens, 7 A-B [email protected] [email protected] Tel. 964583446 1040 Bruxelles LA SALZADELLA PEÑÍSCOLA - PUERTO [email protected] Tel. +32 (0) 22 824 160 C/ Mayor,5 Av. Marcelino Roca, s/n [email protected] 12186 La Salzadella 12598 Peñíscola Tel. 964419282 Tel. 964480208 [email protected] [email protected] 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:52 Página 133

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Accommodations Store hours Climate

What better way to get to know the Not only do snapshots of the places that The mild Mediterranean climate lets

Region of Valencia than to enjoy a are visited make a trip survive in one’s itself be felt in the entire Region of

pleasant stay in one of the numerous memory for a long time, so do all those Valencia, with slight variations between accommodations distributed throug- souvenirs that the traveller acquires for the coast and the interior. During nearly

hout its territory, that year after year family, friends or for himself in the 3,000 hours a year the sun shines on the

increases in number and level of department stores and commercial coast and the average temperature quality, with a wide and diverse range streets in the cities, or handicraft markets during the day varies between 12º-20º

of possibilities, with alternatives for all on promenades or in historical centres of in winter and 24ºC - 32ºC in summer. types of public and budgets, and with small mountain towns, where tradition The warm water temperature of the

establishments that offer everything and innovation go hand in hand. In the Mediterranean makes it possible to find from the basic services to the most Region of Valencia going shopping is an bathers on its coasts from spring to

complete, that can include culinary incentive to add to your visit. autumn. All this under the dome of clear

tastings, health and beauty facilities The open hours of small stores are blue skies that make the Region of and the practice of sports activities. A normally, from Monday to Saturday, from Valencia a privileged tourism destination

total of nearly 1000 hotels and inns, 10 h. to 14 h. and from 17 h. to 20 h. The of mild temperatures, with long and

more than 100 camp grounds and large department stores and hypermarkets, warm summers, and an excellent

around 1,100 rural tourism also from Monday to Saturday, are open climate during the entire year, even in establishments complete a broad from 10 h. to 22 h. On some holidays and winter, which allows carrying out all

tourist offering of the first magnitude, in special seasons (such as Christmas) types of activities.

considered among the best of Europe, these store hours are usually increased. which allows the visitor to enjoy The banking institutions are normally

quality service and careful attention. open from Monday to Friday from 9 h to Consult the infor mation offices of the 14 h.

Tourist Info Network and in www.comunitatvalenciana.com.

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PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Communications

By car By airplane By bus

The AP-7 motorway crosses, parallel to Airports of Alicante and Valencia with na- Estación de Autobuses: the coast, the Region of Valencia and tional and international flights: Valencia, Tel. 963 466 266. connects with the European network. Airport of Valencia (Manises), Castellón de la Plana, Tel. 964 240 778. The national highways connect the Tel. 902 404 704 Alicante, Tel. 965 130 700. coast with the principal cities of the Airport of Alicante (El Altet), interior and the rest of the country. Tel. 966 919 100 A-3 Dual carriageway from Valencia to www.aena-aeropuertos.es By boat Madrid. Airport of Castellón (Benlloch), A-35 Dual carriageway from Valencia Tel. 964 578 000 In the ports of Valencia, Dénia and to Albacete towards Madrid. Alicante there is a passenger maritime A-31 Dual carriageway from Alicante www.aena-aeropuertos.es service with the Balearic Islands as the towards Madrid. destination. A-7 Dual carriageway from Almenara- Valencia-Alcudia de Crespins-Alcoy-Elx By train Port of Valencia, Tel. 963 939 500 to Pilar de la Horadada towards Murcia. Port of Alicante, Tel. 965 130 095 N-232 from Vinaròs to Morella towards Renfe (National railroad network) Port of Castellón de la Plana: Zaragoza. Valencia, Castellón de la Plana Tel. 854 281 140 A-23 from Sagunt to Segorbe towards y Alicante, Port of Dénia, Tel. 965 780 067 Teruel. Tel. 902 240 202. www.renfe.com N-340 crosses the Region of Valencia from north to south towards AVE (High-speed rail) Madrid-Valencia Excursions and trips by boat to the Barcelona-Cádiz, various sections of and Sevilla-Valencia. Tabarca island, the Benidorm island, dual carriageway. the Columbretes islands and different N-330 from Ademuz to Ayora, cross Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat routes on the coast from different the western part of the Region of (Regional railroad network) towns, organised by companies. Valencia. (www.fgv.es) For any information, call the Highway Valencia: Metro Valencia Consult information in the offices of the Help line 011 or the web page of the Tel. 900 461 046 Tourist Info Network. DGT (Traffic Department) www.metrovalencia.es www.dgt.es Alicante. Tram 900 720 472 www.tramalicante.es 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:52 Página 135

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Information of interest

Location: Western coast of the Tourist areas: Costa Blanca, Benidorm, International airports: 3 Mediterranean (Spain). València Terra i Mar and Castellón Valencia (Manises) / Alicante (El Between 40º47’N and 37º51’N Mediterráneo. Altet)/Castellón (Benlloch). (latitude) and 0º30’E and 1º33’W Nº of towns: 542. Passenger maritime ports: 3 (longitude). Climate: Moderate Mediterranean. Valencia / Alicante / Dénia. Surface area: 23,255 km2. Average temperatures during the day: Tourist sector Coast: 632 km. 12-20º C in winter and 24-32º in • 1185 hotel establishments with Population: 4,995, 216 inhabitants summer. 135,387 beds. (INE 2014) Nº of hours of sun each year: 2,730. • 119 camping grounds with space for Cities (with more than 100,000 Land altitude: : Between 200 m, 26.2%. 68,831. inhabitants): Valencia, Alicante, De 201 a 600 m, 38.8%. • 3 Tourist Paradors. Castellón de la Plana and Elx. De 601 a 1000 m, 32.3%. • 8 spas. De 1000 a 2000 m, 6.7%. • 1,121 rural tourism establishments, Land transport infrastructure: with 11,383 beds. • AP-7 Motorway of the Mediterranean. • 14,543 restaurants. • A-3 Dual carriageway (Valencia- • 35 golf courses. Madrid). A-31 (Alicante-Madrid). A-23 (Valencia-Zaragoza) and A-7 (Valencia-Alicante-Elx). • Railroad of the Valencian Regional Government (FGV) and RENFE (National railway system). Useful contacts

PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE TOURIST INFORMATION Emergencies: Tel. 112. www.comunitatvalenciana.com [email protected] 98-136 Turisme ING.qxp_Maquetación 1 18/06/15 20:52 Página 136 PORTADA INGLES.pdf 2 3/12/15 8:36

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