Discovering Valencia – a super quick tour…

With the bird songs still ringing in our ears, we set off bright and early to explore Valencia…

To say we were surprised was an understatement after our 5th street laden with graffiti… it was a sad start to a tour around the old city…. after the fairly uninspiring set of ancient gates, we headed inwards towards the central market…

Thankfully Valencia sprung into life here, with a vibrant market full of fresh produce and delicious pastries to make our mouths water…. After a wonderful picnic lunch as we careered through each line of stalls, we eventually waited our appetite and headed outside towards the roman colosseum that still has bull fighting taking place.

After  short visit to the marina to see where the 32nd Americas Cup race was started and finished, we were lucky enough to see some quite stunning boats still on view….

As we skirted the edge of the harbour, we moved onto the famous beach and promenade that makes Valencia rival Barcelona…. it is hard act to follow and although it tries hard, Valencia still has to cede ground here to it’s Catalonian rival….

Following some shopping and a lengthy metro journey back (with extra costly tickets due to a malfunctioning card….) we arrived back at base and ready for tapas/sangria and sweeties….. With Strictly Come Dancing readied for action…. the van was a quiet place tonight… Roll on Alicante tomorrow as the rain is expected, so we will travel…. thankfully the week ahead’s weather looks fantastic!!! Time to get the bikes on the road again me thinks….