The Best Scenic Drives Around Valencia

Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city, is known for its stunning coastline, rich history, and vibrant culture. While the city is a jewel in itself, the surrounding areas are equally captivating and offer some of the most scenic drives in Spain. From winding mountain roads to picturesque coastal routes, Valencia’s surroundings are perfect for a memorable road trip experience. In this article, we will explore the best scenic drives around Valencia that showcase the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

1. The Route of the Turia River

The Turia River Route offers a scenic drive through some of Valencia’s most charming inland landscapes. The Turia River, which has been redirected through the city, creates a natural passage that stretches through several picturesque villages and scenic spots. This route begins in Valencia and passes through quaint towns like Riba-roja de Túria, Llíria, and Chulilla.

Chulilla, in particular, is a must-see, famous for its dramatic canyon and turquoise reservoir. If you enjoy hiking, Chulilla’s suspension bridges over the canyon and its walking trails offer the perfect escape. This scenic drive also offers stunning vistas of the Turia River gorge, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

2. The Albufera Natural Park Route

One of the most famous scenic drives around Valencia is the route through Albufera Natural Park. Located just 20 minutes south of Valencia, this route takes you through lush rice fields, peaceful lagoons, and dense pine forests. The Albufera Park is home to the largest lake in Spain and a variety of bird species, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

On this drive, you can explore the traditional fishing villages, like El Palmar, and enjoy a boat ride on the Albufera Lagoon. Don’t forget to try a plate of the traditional Paella Valenciana, which is said to have originated from this region. The drive offers not only beautiful landscapes but also a chance to experience the region’s authentic gastronomy.

3. The Sierra Calderona Route

For those who enjoy mountainous terrain, the Sierra Calderona Route is a breathtaking journey. Located northwest of Valencia, the Sierra Calderona Natural Park is known for its rugged beauty and diverse ecosystems. The route takes you through the small town of Náquera, known for its scenic viewpoints, and Olocau, famous for its ancient Iberian ruins.

As you drive through the Sierra Calderona, you’ll pass through lush forests of pine and cork oak, with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. One of the highlights of this drive is reaching the Garbí viewpoint, which offers one of the most spectacular views of the Valencian coast and the surrounding mountains.

4. The Route of the Orange Blossom Coast (Costa del Azahar)

If you’re looking for a coastal scenic drive, the Orange Blossom Coast route, known as Costa del Azahar, is perfect. This drive takes you along the northern coastline of the province of Valencia and offers sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea. The route passes through charming coastal towns such as Almenara, Sagunto, and Canet d’en Berenguer.

One of the highlights of this drive is the town of Sagunto, which is home to a well-preserved Roman theatre and an impressive hilltop castle. The Costa del Azahar is famous for its orange groves, which fill the air with the sweet fragrance of orange blossoms in the spring.

5. The Route to Montanejos

The Montanejos route is perfect for those who want to explore the inland beauty of the Valencian Community. This drive takes you through the winding roads of the Alto Mijares region, leading to the town of Montanejos. Montanejos is famous for its natural thermal springs, which are said to have healing properties.

On this drive, you’ll pass through scenic mountain landscapes, with opportunities to stop and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Mijares River. Montanejos is also popular for its hiking trails, which lead to stunning viewpoints overlooking the river and surrounding valleys.

6. The Route through the Júcar River Valley

Another scenic drive worth exploring is the route through the Júcar River Valley. This route takes you through the picturesque valley of the Júcar River, which flows from the mountains to the Mediterranean Sea. The drive passes through charming villages like Cofrentes, Cortes de Pallás, and Jalance, offering stunning views of the river and the surrounding mountains.

Cofrentes, in particular, is a great place to stop and explore, known for its castle and the impressive volcanic peak of Cerro de Agras. You can also take a boat ride along the Júcar River to fully appreciate the beauty of the valley.

7. The Route to Morella

For history buffs, the route to Morella is a scenic and culturally enriching drive. Morella is a medieval town located about two hours north of Valencia, known for its impressive city walls and ancient castle. The drive to Morella takes you through the rolling hills of the Maestrazgo region, passing through scenic villages and lush farmlands.

Upon reaching Morella, you’ll be greeted by the sight of the town’s iconic castle perched on a rocky hilltop. The town itself is a delight to explore, with its cobbled streets, Gothic architecture, and local delicacies like flaó, a traditional cheese pastry.

8. The Route to Xàtiva

The drive to Xàtiva is a journey through history and beautiful landscapes. Located about an hour south of Valencia, Xàtiva is famous for its impressive hilltop castle and its historical significance as the birthplace of the Borgia family. The drive takes you through rolling hills and olive groves, offering scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

Xàtiva’s castle is one of the largest in Spain and offers stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas. The town is also known for its historical churches and museums, making it a perfect destination for history enthusiasts.

Conclusion

The region around Valencia offers a diverse range of scenic drives, each with its own unique charm and attractions. Whether you prefer coastal routes with sweeping sea views, mountainous drives with panoramic vistas, or journeys through historic villages, Valencia has something to offer every traveler. So, pack your bags, fill up your tank, and embark on a scenic drive to explore the hidden gems of this beautiful region.