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One of the most stunning natural parks you’ll ever have the pleasure to hike, L’Albufera is a nature lovers dream. Featuring the biggest lake in the whole of Spain, it’s an amazing place to spend a day or more!<\/span><\/p>\nCatch the bus from central Valencia to El Palmar, a pretty, traditional Spanish village, near to the natural park. This is a great little place to visit in itself, and can be likened to a mini Venice with its canals and waterways. This is also where paella is said to have been invented, and you’ll see why when you see all the rice paddies that seem to go on for miles surrounding the village. You can’t visit the birthplace of paella without tucking into a hearty bowl full, so why not indulge in a traditional lunch to give you energy for exploring the nearby park?<\/span><\/p>\n You can get bus tours around the natural park which include a boat trip on the lake, which are a great idea if you want to get your bearings of the park before choosing one of the many hiking trials to tackle on another day during your trip. One thing you really have to do in L’Albufera is catch one of the amazing sunsets. These are undeniably gorgeous at any time of the year, but are particularly stunning in Spain in winter and early spring, so make sure you stick around long enough to watch the sun go down over the lake.<\/span><\/p>\n This natural park is also a great spot to visit if you’re a fan of birds of prey. There are so many species here that you’re guaranteed to need a camera at the ready to capture the eagles, kestrels, buzzards and owls that call this park their home. There are several micro reserves throughout the park, one of which, called Caballo Pelut, is worth a visit for its name alone \u2013 the hairy horse!<\/span><\/p>\n There are, of course, other natural parks to explore in the area, Turia River being one of them. This is home to some fascinating archaeological formations and a magnificent castle, and would make a good addition to longer holiday itineraries.<\/span><\/p>\n Whichever natural parks you choose to add to your must see list, you will need a great base from which to explore. <\/span>Our Valencia hotelSierra Calderona Natural Park<\/b><\/h4>\n
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This is a huge natural park, situated between the Valencia and Castellon provinces. It’s a bit of a way to travel from Valencia city itself, but well worth the trip if you do decide to make the effort. The park offers a wide variety of terrain to hike and features pretty historic villages, huge mountain ranges and rocky gorges. It is also home to protected flora and fauna, so keep your eyes open for unusual plant varieties and breathtaking blooms.<\/span><\/p>\n