Valencia Province, nestled in the eastern part of Spain along the Mediterranean coast, offers some of the most picturesque landscapes in the country. From rugged mountain ranges and verdant valleys to coastal roads that hug the sea, Valencia is a paradise for those who love to explore by car. This guide will take you through some of the most scenic drives in Valencia Province, each offering its own unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and charming stops along the way.
1. The Montanejos Route
Starting Point: Valencia City
Ending Point: Montanejos
Distance: 100 km
Estimated Time: 1.5 hours
This drive begins in the bustling city of Valencia and takes you inland towards the serene village of Montanejos, famous for its thermal springs. As you leave the city behind, the landscape gradually transforms from urban sprawl to rolling hills dotted with almond and olive groves. The road winds through the Sierra de Espadán Natural Park, a protected area known for its lush cork oak forests and rugged terrain.
One of the highlights of this drive is the Alto de Espino, a mountain pass that offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. The descent towards Montanejos is equally spectacular, with the road hugging the contours of the mountainside, revealing the turquoise waters of the Mijares River below. Upon reaching Montanejos, take a dip in the thermal springs, which maintain a constant temperature of 25°C, or explore the surrounding hiking trails.
2. The Costa del Azahar Route
Starting Point: Valencia City
Ending Point: Peñíscola
Distance: 150 km
Estimated Time: 2 hours
The Costa del Azahar, or "Orange Blossom Coast," is a stretch of coastline that runs north of Valencia City, known for its citrus orchards and pristine beaches. This drive takes you along the N-340, a coastal road that offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
As you leave Valencia, you'll pass through charming coastal towns such as Sagunto, with its impressive Roman ruins, and Almenara, where you can stop for a leisurely lunch by the sea. Further north, the landscape becomes more rugged as the mountains meet the coast, creating dramatic cliffs and secluded coves.
The drive culminates in Peñíscola, a historic town perched on a rocky promontory. The town's medieval castle, once home to Pope Benedict XIII, offers panoramic views of the coastline. Peñíscola's old town, with its narrow streets and whitewashed houses, is the perfect place to end your journey.
3. The Sierra Calderona Route
Starting Point: Valencia City
Ending Point: Segorbe
Distance: 65 km
Estimated Time: 1 hour
The Sierra Calderona is a mountain range located just north of Valencia City, offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. This drive takes you through the heart of the Sierra Calderona Natural Park, a protected area known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
The route begins with a gentle ascent into the mountains, with the road winding through pine forests and rocky outcrops. As you climb higher, the views become increasingly dramatic, with the Mediterranean Sea visible in the distance on clear days.
One of the highlights of this drive is the Garbí viewpoint, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. From here, the road descends towards Segorbe, a historic town known for its medieval walls and aqueduct. Segorbe is also famous for its annual bull-running event, which takes place in September and attracts visitors from all over Spain.
4. The Júcar River Valley Route
Starting Point: Alzira
Ending Point: Cofrentes
Distance: 90 km
Estimated Time: 1.5 hours
The Júcar River Valley is one of the most scenic areas in Valencia Province, with its deep gorges, fertile plains, and picturesque villages. This drive takes you along the CV-50 and CV-425, following the course of the Júcar River as it winds its way through the valley.
The journey begins in Alzira, a town known for its historic center and vibrant festivals. As you leave Alzira, the road follows the river through a series of dramatic gorges, with towering cliffs on either side. The landscape here is lush and green, with orange groves and vineyards lining the valley floor.
One of the highlights of this drive is the town of Cofrentes, located at the confluence of the Júcar and Cabriel rivers. Cofrentes is home to a medieval castle, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The town is also a popular starting point for river cruises and outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
5. The Requena-Utiel Wine Route
Starting Point: Requena
Ending Point: Utiel
Distance: 30 km
Estimated Time: 30 minutes
For wine lovers, the Requena-Utiel Wine Route is a must-do. This short but scenic drive takes you through one of Spain's most famous wine regions, known for its robust red wines made from the Bobal grape.
The route begins in Requena, a town with a rich wine-making heritage. Here, you can visit several wineries and sample some of the region's best wines. The drive then takes you through rolling vineyards and olive groves, with the distant mountains providing a stunning backdrop.
The journey ends in Utiel, another historic town with a strong wine-making tradition. Be sure to visit the local wine museum and sample some more wines at one of the many bodegas in the area. If you're visiting in September, don't miss the annual wine festival, where you can enjoy wine tastings, food stalls, and live music.
6. The Maestrazgo Route
Starting Point: Morella
Ending Point: Sant Mateu
Distance: 70 km
Estimated Time: 1.5 hours
The Maestrazgo region, located in the northern part of Valencia Province, is a remote and rugged area known for its medieval villages and dramatic landscapes. This drive takes you through some of the most picturesque parts of the region, with plenty of opportunities to explore historic towns and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
The route begins in Morella, a medieval town perched on a hilltop and surrounded by ancient walls. Morella's castle offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, and the town itself is a delight to explore, with its narrow streets and historic buildings.
From Morella, the road winds its way through the mountains, passing through small villages and scenic valleys. The drive ends in Sant Mateu, another historic town with a rich architectural heritage. Sant Mateu's old town is a maze of narrow streets and squares, with several impressive churches and palaces to explore.
Conclusion
Valencia Province is a treasure trove of scenic drives, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and charming stops along the way. Whether you're exploring the rugged mountains of the Sierra Calderona, the picturesque vineyards of Requena-Utiel, or the dramatic coastline of the Costa del Azahar, you're sure to be captivated by the stunning landscapes and rich history of this beautiful region. So pack your bags, fill up the tank, and set out on an unforgettable journey through the scenic roads of Valencia Province.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the most scenic drives in Valencia Province?
Some of the most scenic drives include the Montanejos Route, Costa del Azahar Route, Sierra Calderona Route, Júcar River Valley Route, Requena-Utiel Wine Route, and the Maestrazgo Route
What is the best time of year to explore Valencia Province by car?
Spring and autumn are the best times to explore Valencia Province, as the weather is mild, and the landscapes are at their most vibrant
Are there any specific safety tips for driving in Valencia Province?
Ensure your car is in good condition, especially for mountain routes. Also, be cautious of narrow, winding roads in rural areas, and always carry a map or GPS.
Can I explore these scenic drives in a day trip from Valencia City?
Yes, most of the drives can be completed as day trips from Valencia City, although some, like the Maestrazgo Route, may require more time to fully enjoy
Are there guided tours available for these scenic routes?
Yes, several companies offer guided tours, especially for wine routes like Requena-Utiel, where you can enjoy expert knowledge along with wine tastings