In December 2021, I went on a workation to Valencia. This was part of my 3-month workation XL in Spain. I couldn’t wait to go to this city. Palm trees, sun, tapas and the fine Spanish culture. It is around 17 degrees here in winter and most of the time the sun shines. During the day you can sit around in a t-shirt. In the evening it cools down and you need a thick sweater or jacket. I have even had beautiful days of 23 degrees, lucky me. I didn’t expect shorts and shirts in the winter, but you won’t hear me complain. Favorite place
I love the beach. So not surprising that my favorite neighborhood is El Cabanyal, near the port and the beach. This originally old fishing neighborhood oozes with character. Full of colored houses and a sea breeze, I feel right at home there. It is also a bit less touristy and you can find many nice little Spanish restaurants where there are many locals.
Where I stayed
Because I was here for 5 weeks I had several accommodations. Both private apartments and hostels. Sometimes I wanted peace and sometimes I liked to meet other people. Ruzafa and El Carmen are my favorite neighborhoods for that. Ruzafa is hip and cozy, in the small streets there is literally a restaurant on every corner. El Carmen is the old center, which is beautiful and full of life. Plenty of bars and coffee shops can be found in both neighborhoods. Ruzafa looks a bit more authentic so it has an edge with me. Cantagua Hostel is a must here, small, very chill and more working thirty-somethings (no, you are never too old for a hostel!). In El Cabanyal, the apartments at La Mas Bonita are a recommended place to stay. Close to the beach and super tastefully decorated. In general, my hostels were quiet enough for me to work, but I just really like the atmosphere in flex-workplaces, which is why I regularly went to Flying Bean. For €10 a day you rent a desk and get a delicious cup of coffee with it. You can then also use a conference room for your (online) meetings. You can also just work in a quiet café, of which there are countless in Valencia.
The bucket list
In addition to exploring the bustling city, I also love to seek the tranquility of nature. It is almost a shame not to go into the Spanish interior, because it is soooo beautiful! Especially out of season, because then there are few tourists. So I went hiking in Chulilla, a kind of mini Grand Canyon which is really breathtakingly beautiful. It is well known to rock climbers, but I kept both feet on the ground. I also went hiking in Serra Calderona, an immense natural park just an hour from the city. Also great to reach by public transport for a day trip.
Hasta la vista
I am really in love with Valencia and am sure I will come back here again. I could write a book full of tips with fun bars, nice places to work, things to really do or see. If you want to know anything, feel free to send me a message! Would you also like to go on a workation in Valencia? Check out this villa.
