Valencia: Xativa Castle and Village Private Tour

Discover the historic allure of Xativa, a captivating village nestled beneath the imposing Xativa Castle. This private tour offers a chance to explore the region’s intriguing past, from the powerful Borgia family‘s ancestral roots to the architectural marvels that dot the landscape. Explore the towering medieval fortress, soak in the panoramic vistas, and learn about the charming local culture – all while uncovering the fascinating legacy that has shaped this Spanish treasure. With a flexible cancellation policy, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Valencia’s rich history and stunning scenery.

Key Points

• Explore the well-preserved Xativa Castle, the ancestral home of the powerful Borgia family, and learn about their captivating history.
• Discover the Torre del Homenaje, a massive keep that served as the castle’s principal defense, and the Palacio de los Borgia.
• Admire the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the Sierra de Enguera and the Port de Bèrnia mountain passes.
• Experience the medieval atmosphere of Xativa’s village, with its Renaissance-style Cathedral of Xàtiva within the fortress walls.
• Indulge in the region’s renowned culinary delights, such as Paella Valenciana and crème caramel, highlighting the local gastronomic heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Gandia’s Medieval Palace

The tour begins with a visit to Gandia’s stunning medieval palace, once the residence of the powerful Borgia family.

This magnificent structure, dating back to the 15th century, stands as a testament to the region’s rich history. Visitors can explore the palace’s ornate halls and chambers, marveling at the intricate architectural details and the lavish decor that once hosted noble gatherings.

The guide provides insightful commentary, bringing the palace’s storied past to life. From the grand staircase to the serene gardens, every corner of the Borgia Palace offers a glimpse into the grandeur of a bygone era.

This captivating introduction sets the stage for the day’s adventure through the historic towns of Gandia and Xativa.

Xativa’s Hilltop Fortress

From the charming streets of Gandia, the tour winds its way through mountain passes and orange groves, eventually arriving at the hilltop town of Xativa, whose walled fortress stands as a testament to its storied past.

Towering over the town, the fortress offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the fortress’s impressive fortifications, including:

The Torre del Homenaje, a massive keep that once served as the castle’s principal defense.

The Palacio de los Borgia, the birthplace of the infamous Borgia family, which boasts ornate architectural details.

The Cuevas de San José, a network of underground tunnels and chambers that provided additional protection.

The Cathedral of Xàtiva, a Renaissance-style church located within the fortress walls.

Scenic Mountain Passes

As the tour winds its way through the scenic mountain passes, visitors are treated to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding countryside. Snaking through rugged peaks and valleys, the route offers panoramic views of the region’s natural beauty, with lush greenery and distant mountain ranges dominating the landscape.

The drive through the mountain passes is a true highlight of the tour, providing ample opportunities to admire the stunning scenery. Passengers can gaze out the window and soak in the tranquil, unspoiled landscapes that characterize this picturesque corner of Spain.

Mountain Passes	Elevation	Distance
Sierra de Enguera	1,183 m	25 km
Puerto de Naquera	570 m	18 km
Port de Bèrnia	682 m	22 km

Local Culinary Delights

During the tour, visitors can savor an array of local culinary delights at the scheduled lunch stop. Highlighting the region’s rich gastronomic heritage, the menu features a selection of traditional Spanish dishes crafted from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Guests may indulge in:

1. Paella Valenciana, the iconic saffron-infused rice dish brimming with seafood, chicken, and vegetables.
2. Braised lamb shanks, slow-cooked to perfection and served with roasted potatoes and seasonal greens.
3. A vibrant salad of mixed greens, juicy tomatoes, and creamy Manchego cheese, drizzled with zesty citrus vinaigrette.

For dessert, a classic crème caramel, its silky custard and caramelized topping a sweet ending to the meal.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Discovering Borgia Family Birthplace

The hilltop town of Xativa holds a special significance as the birthplace of the renowned Borgia family, whose influence once reached the highest echelons of power in Europe.

On this private tour, visitors can explore the town’s well-preserved medieval fortress, which served as the ancestral home of the Borgias. Here, they’ll uncover the fascinating history of this powerful family, learning about their rise to power and the legacy they left behind.

From the fortress’ ramparts, they’ll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, dotted with orange groves and mountain peaks.

This unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the Borgias is a highlight of the tour, offering a glimpse into a captivating chapter of Spanish history.

Panoramic Views From Fortress

From the well-preserved medieval fortress atop Xativa’s hilltop, visitors can take in panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside. Dotted with vibrant orange groves and majestic mountain peaks, the sweeping views from the fortress’ ramparts offer a breathtaking glimpse into the region’s natural beauty.

The fortress itself is a marvel of medieval engineering, with:

Imposing stone walls and towers that have withstood the test of time.
Winding staircases and pathways that allow for exploration of the site.
Remnants of ancient weaponry and fortifications that provide a glimpse into the fortress’ storied past.
Vantage points that offer unparalleled panoramas of the picturesque Valencian landscape.

Orange Groves and Landscapes

As visitors journey through the surrounding countryside, they’ll be treated to the vibrant hues of the region’s renowned orange groves, which blanket the landscape in a sea of lush greenery and golden fruit.

Winding roads cutting through these verdant orchards offer breathtaking vistas, showcasing the natural splendor that has long defined this picturesque corner of Spain.

The drive between Gandia and Xativa provides ample opportunities to admire the rolling hills and rugged mountain passes that frame the horizon, with stunning views of the area’s diverse ecosystems.

From the lush citrus orchards to the dramatic limestone peaks, this scenic route truly encapsulates the essence of Valencia’s natural beauty.

Flexible Cancellation Policy

One of the key benefits of this private tour is its flexible cancellation policy, which allows participants to cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance without any penalties. This policy provides peace of mind and flexibility, ensuring that travelers can adjust their plans if needed without incurring additional costs.

Some of the advantages of this cancellation policy include:

1. Accommodating last-minute changes in schedules or unforeseen circumstances.
2. Allowing participants to rebook the tour for a different date if their plans shift.
3. Providing a hassle-free experience by eliminating the stress of nonrefundable bookings.
4. Encouraging travelers to book with confidence, knowing they can cancel without financial penalty.

This flexible cancellation policy is just one of the many reasons why this private tour of Xativa Castle and Village is an exceptional choice for visitors to the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Additional Luggage Can I Bring on the Tour?

The tour allows guests to bring a reasonable amount of additional luggage, though it’s best to check with the tour provider for specific guidelines. Any oversized or excessive items may need to be stored separately.

Is Wifi Available on the Tour Vehicle?

The tour vehicle does not provide Wi-Fi. However, the tour includes private transportation with air conditioning, and a local expert guide to provide commentary throughout the day.

Do We Have an Opportunity to Shop During the Tour?

The tour includes a stop at Xativa, where you will have free time to explore the local shops and markets. However, there is no dedicated shopping portion of the itinerary.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour is customizable. Customers can request modifications to the itinerary to suit their preferences, such as adding or removing activities, adjusting the duration, or focusing on specific areas of interest. The tour provider will work with customers to create a personalized experience.

Are Dietary Restrictions Accommodated During the Lunch Stop?

Yes, dietary restrictions are accommodated during the lunch stop on this private tour. The guide works with the local restaurants to ensure participants’ dietary needs are met, providing a personalized dining experience.

Recap

Immerse in Valencia’s captivating history and scenery on this private tour of Xativa Castle and Village. Uncover the legacy of the powerful Borgia family, marvel at the panoramic vistas, and explore the region’s intriguing past.

This well-preserved Spanish treasure offers a glimpse into the country’s architectural wonders and a flexible cancellation policy for convenience.

You can check if your dates are available here: