Book a Bearleaders Hosted Experience in Valencia at Hotel Balneario Las Arenas*****
The Spanish city of Valencia offers the perfect combination between culture and leisure. Located right at the beach with a beautiful long promenade with an enormous park. Valencia has a rich and varied history, with Roman, Christian and Moroccan, and Arab influences, the latter including forward-thinking irrigation systems which have contributed to the green pastoral lands and luscious oranges we know the city for.
The city is also legendary for its gastronomic culture and as the birthplace of the paella - a simmered rice dish with vegetables and chicken, rabbit and duck.
For architectural lovers, Valencia is also the place to be. You can find a stark contrast between the winding ancient streets with Roman, Arabic and Valencian Gothic influences. The futuristic architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences was designed by famous Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava.
Where to eat in Valencia
CASA CARMELA
This authentic restaurant is the best place for tasting an original paella for over a 100 years. The signature dish is made in traditional way, prepared over a wood fire. It is opened daily, but for lunch only.
RICARD CAMARENA
Valencia’s culinary ambassador Ricard Camarena’s restaurant. With two Michelin stars and one green Michelin star awarded for sustainability. Exquisite contemporary dishes full of subtle yet unexpected nuances, finely crafted from exclusive local products and treasures from the Mediterranean Sea.
EL POBLET
This restaurant, under the leadership of Luis Valls, was awarded with two Michelin stars in 2019. Owned by the Quique Dacosta Group, who received three stars in Denia, you can expect an enlightening experience from a kitchen that has its roots deeply embedded in the territory and in the Albufera.
RAUSELL
Started in 1948, this restaurant offers market cuisine and the best products for very reasonable prices for over three generations. They have a spectacular cellar an extensive, yet affordable, wine list.
BAR RICARDO
Another third generation gem, offering local fresh product cooked with loving simplicity. Modest in appearance, but with unbeatable taste.
ADUANA
A classic restaurant with a rich and varied history, starting out as a place for sailors to eat a simple meal in the 1930s, developing into a tapas and sandwhich bar and finally to its current form in 2006: accessible but high quality cuisine with dishes that let you taste the Valencian market, in a hip environment.
Stay at Hotel Balneario Las Arenas*****GL and become a Lladró artist
Request availability for this unique 2-night stay at the hotel, including a private tour at the Lladró Boutique Museum, one of the most famous porcelain brands in the world, followed by a hands-on workshop where you can decorate your own porcelain piece, under the guidance of a Lladró artist.
Where to go for a drink in Valencia
MARINA BEACH CLUB
A short walk over the beautiful promenade connected to Las Arenas hotel you’ll find music, food and drinks served in an inspiring environment with amazing views.
CAFE DE LAS HORAS
A historic literary café from the early 20th century where the atmosphere is as rich and dazzling as the extensive menu of delicious cocktails.
CAFE MADRID
An artistic cafe from the 1940s that can not be missed. This the birthplace of the “Agua de Valencia” cocktail - made with delicious local oranges.
L’ UMBRACLE
Simply the best outdoor night club in Europe. Under its beautiful glass dome, lined with palm trees, you can party the night away in its lush gardens while breathing the fresh air.
What to do in Valencia
LAS ARENAS AND MALVARROSA BEACHES
Some of the best urban beaches in Europe, connecting eight kilometres of bars and restaurants. Do not miss the wonderful sunrise every morning!
TURIA GARDEN
One of the largest urban parks in Spain, running nine kilometres through the city and connecting 18 historically rich and beautiful bridges. A wonderful green space boasting foot paths, leisure & sports areas and romantic spots where you can unwind.
CITY OF ARTS & SCIENCE
Stunning modern architecture and design, nestled on the Turia garden. You simply have to see its futuristic buildings, including museums, the opera house, and the Oceanographic - the largest Aquarium in Europe.
ALBUFERA NATIONAL PARK
Just ten km from the city you’ll find nature in its purest form, with magical sunsets, boat rides and the chance to disconnect like nowhere else. After a long day of enjoying nature, you can finish in style with a traditional Paella at El Palmar village, right in the middle of the lake.
HISTORIC CITY CENTRE
Feel more than 2.000 years of Valencian History, with Roman and Phoenician heritage. Wander around the tight winding streets and visit several unmissable spots!
LA LONJA DE LA SEDA
This former silk exchange and trade hall became a UNESCO world heritage site for it’s uniqueness as an aesthetically grandiose secular building, highlighting the riches of Mediterranean Europe in past days.
CENTRAL MARKET
The largest covered market in Europe, in beautiful Valencian Art Nouveau style. An amazing selection of fresh produce is available here, along with several small restaurants.
CATHEDRAL OF VALENCIA
Said to be the home of the one real Holy Grail: the cup that Jesus drank from during the Last Supper. While its authenticity is often debated, the grandiose Valencian Gothic architecture is not, so you owe yourself a visit no matter what!
SAN NICOLÁS CHURCH
A beautiful 13th century church that was later adorned with glorious baroque interior.
