From Valencia to the Albufera Coast

The coast is calling, so set off through the Turia Gardens and City of Arts and Sciences, down the dedicated cycle path which leads alongside little beaches or platjas to the 3,000 hectare freshwater expanse of the Laguna de L’Albufera. Home to some of Spain’s most memorable sunsets, it’s a natural paradise that’s brimful of birdlife and just right for a boat trip.

Stop off at El Palmar, with its rustic Valencian architecture and little black-sailed fishing boats for an outing on the water, or perhaps a taste of freshly prepared crayfish. Finally the beach beckons in real Spanish style, with your stay for the next two nights planned at a unique Parador right on the coast but in the heart of the Albufera nature reserve.

Miles: 19 Kms: 30

With its beach-side location, great golf course and relaxing spa facilities, you’d be forgiven for wanting to chill out in the warmth of the Mediterranean breeze, but with the local terrain making for the gentlest sort of cycling and the most amazing views, who can resist another little outing on two wheels

Circular tour to Sueca
This leads across the outstretched farmlands of the Albufera, whose colours change with the seasons and whose irrigation channels attract many different bird species. At La Muntanyeta del Sants, there’s an excellent look-out point across the rice paddies and over towards the fine sandy beaches before the route continues on to Sueca, Albufera’s capital of the rice industry. The final stretch loops back to the coast to El Perellonet, located between two water outlets or ‘Golas’ and heads back up along the coast to the Parador El Saler.

Miles: 26 Kms: 42

Circular tour to Cullera
Head south along the coast past El Perellonet and weave your way inland across the Albufera before dropping down to Cullera, the coastal city near the mouth of the River Xúquer. Don’t miss the perfect Mediterranean panoramas at the Sanctuary of the Virgen del Castillo or the opportunity to enjoy one of the wonderful beaches. The route heads back inland along country lanes to rejoin the coast at El Perellonet for the final stage back to the Parador El Saler.

Miles: 37-42 Kms: 60-67

Sadly it’s time to depart after breakfast, or perhaps take time for one last walk along the beach, a dip in the Med or maybe even a final round of golf!