Valencia can also be discovered through its flavours. Its gastronomy is closely connected to the Mediterranean, its market gardens and rice fields, with recipes that form an essential part of the destination’s identity. If you want to add a gastronomic touch to your holiday, these three flavours are an excellent place to start.

Valencian paella, much more than a dish

Talking about Valencian gastronomy means talking about paella. The traditional Valencian recipe centres around rice, chicken, rabbit and a variety of locally grown vegetables, although the ingredients may vary slightly from one area to another.

Beyond the recipe itself, paella is part of Valencian culture and is particularly associated with gathering around the table. During your trip, you’ll find plenty of restaurants where you can try it, both in the city and in coastal towns and the area around l’Albufera.

All i pebre, tradition by l’Albufera

In the villages around l’Albufera, you’ll find another of Valencia’s traditional dishes: all i pebre. Its main ingredient is eel, usually cooked with potatoes, garlic and paprika to create a rich, flavourful stew.

Places such as El Palmar have a strong tradition surrounding this recipe. A visit to the area allows you to combine gastronomy with a walk through one of Valencia’s most characteristic natural landscapes.

Horchata and fartons, Valencia’s sweeter side

To finish, there’s nothing better than a refreshing tiger nut horchata served with fartons. Cool and slightly sweet, horchata is one of Valencia’s best-known drinks, especially during the warmer months. Fartons, long and fluffy pastries, are its classic accompaniment.

If you’re staying at a BLUESEA hotel in Cullera, you can make the most of your holiday to explore the coast, visit Valencia and discover some of these flavours along the way.

Valencian paella, all i pebre and horchata with fartons tell three different stories about Valencia: its rice fields and market gardens, l’Albufera and its sweetest traditions. Three good reasons to discover the destination one bite at a time.