La Vall d’Albaida: Pure Nature and Culture in the Region of Valencia

Nestled in the province of Valencia, La Vall d'Albaida is a great place for hiking in nature’s backyard, exploring villages overflowing with rural charm, and sipping on delectable local wines. A trip to this county is the perfect introduction to Valencia’s most typical traditions and local products.

The diverse landscapes in La Vall d’Albaida are a sight to behold, ranging from the idyllic riverbanks of river Clariano and river Albaida, the towering mountainscapes of Mariola Sierra Natural Park, Grossa and Agullent, as well as the mountain ranges of Benicadell and Buixcarró. And then you have the verdant vineyards and olive groves to explore, and the carob and orange trees that stand proud among ancient dams, farmhouses and chapels.

Get ready for a trip with no shortage of things to do, all of which are guaranteed to make you fall in love with Valencia.

Towns and villages in La Vall d’Albaida

An exploration around Agullent and its surrounding mills and old wash houses is always a pleasure. Go on an adventure, setting off from Atzeneta d'Albaida and venture through La Solana del Benicadell Protected Area.

Your tour around La Vall d’Albaida will lead you to historic sites such as La Carbonera Castle ruins in Beniatjar, or the fascinating cave paintings in Petxina Cave in Bellús, now a fantastic museum space. Keep an eye out for the rustic buildings of Benicolet and Montichelvo, known as riuraus - rural structures originally built for drying grapes.

There are plenty of hikes to choose from, with pretty villages such as Bèlgida and Castelló de Rugat two great starting points. Sample the local delicacies such as the local liquid gold - quality olive oil from Alfarrasí or Quatretonda. Wine lovers will love sipping on the wines from Fontanars dels Alforins and even visit a local winery or two.

The list of destinations to check out continues with Bufali, El Palomar, Benissuera, Llutxent, Salem, Terrateig, Guadasèquies and l’Olleria. La Vall d’Albaida is made up of 34 municipalities, so you won’t run out of beautiful places to add to your itinerary.

Things to do in La Vall d’Albaida

For a bit of sightseeing in La Vall d’Albaida, we recommend visiting places such as Aielo de Malferit, home to a museum dedicated to the much-loved Valencian singer Nino Bravo. Another destination to add to the list is pretty Bocairent, whose historic centre and Medieval quarter are worth seeing, likewise, the magnificent Sant Blai Cave and Covetes dels Moros - a collection of caves that were dug out of the rocky cliff face - are both must-visits. Stepping into one of these historic caves is a memorable experience for sure!

In Carrícola, you’ll find a museum nestled in the heart of nature along a path that leads you to the castle. And you can get to know the quaint town of Otos by going on a walk in search of sundials. Coming in all shapes, sizes and designs, it's never too late to admire these historic devices!
Let’s wrap up our tour of La Vall d’Albaida there, but keep in mind, there is still plenty more to uncover! Come to this part of Valencia for a rural getaway and check it all out for yourself. Don’t forget to include a visit to Ontinyent for a refreshing dip in Pou Clar, and let the sound of the traditional bell-ringing in Albaida - listed a UNESCO world heritage - get you moving to the unique rhythm of this incredible county.