Mediterranean Route 2026

Sunday and Monday

In the province of Tarragona, the town of Tortosa awaits, nestled in the lands surrounding the final stretch of the Ebro River before it reaches its mouth, where it forms the vast Ebro Delta. A Natural Park boasts a landscape of great beauty and unique character, one of the most important wetlands in the western Mediterranean, bordered by rice paddies and marshes. Inland, the mountainous region of Els Ports, also a Natural Park, and the Pàndols and Cavalls mountain ranges bear witness to the last major battle of the Spanish Civil War. Tortosa, steeped in history, lives with its face to the river, and there's nothing better to enjoy it than sailing on the emblematic Lo Sirgador boat, a replica of the old vessels. The city has a rich architectural heritage, beginning with the Parador hotel, perched atop a hill, and the Moorish enclosure of La Suda. Also noteworthy from the Gothic period are the Episcopal Palace, the Despuig Palace, the Palace of the Marquis of Bellet, the Oliver de Boteller Palace; the Convent, Church, and Cloister of Santa Clara, the Portal del Romeu, and the Lonja (exchange). From the Renaissance period, the Royal Colleges, the Church of Sant Domènec, and the Capmany i Vallcabra Palace are worth seeing. There are also some remarkable Modernist works, such as the municipal market, park, and slaughterhouse, and the Grego Houses. A visit to the bustling market will also allow you to savor the products and the rich gastronomy of the Ebro Lands, which embraces both the sea and the mountains thanks to its proximity to the bountiful orchards and abundant fishing grounds. As a point of interest, there is the option of taking a tour of the mussel farms of Sant Carles de la Ràpita, where oysters are cultivated in addition to these bivalves, with the possibility of tasting them.

Tuesday and Wednesday

Without leaving the coast and heading south, we reach Valencia, one of the most attractive, modern, and cosmopolitan cities in Spain. Don't miss the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, designed by Santiago Calatrava, and wander through the old town: the Silk Exchange (Lonja de la Seda), a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the Central Market; the Cathedral—where you can't forget to climb the Miguelete tower—the Palau de la Generalitat, the Palace of the Marquis of Dos Aguas, the Serranos Towers, and the Quart Towers. Must-see cultural stops include the Valencian Institute of Modern Art (IVAM), the La Beneficencia cultural center, and the Museum of Fine Arts to admire their fascinating art collections and exhibitions. You can't leave Valencia without trying paella, visiting the famous urban beach of La Malvarrosa, enjoying its renowned ice cream, or having an authentic horchata with fartons. At sunset, few experiences can compare to witnessing the beauty of a sunset during a boat trip on La Albufera. Located within the Natural Park, one of Europe's most important wetlands and a haven for birdlife, is the Parador—a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts thanks to its prestigious course—nestled amidst the dunes and pine forest that surround it, with a majestic, unspoiled beach at its feet. And although the journey continues the next day, the city boasts a vibrant nightlife where night blends seamlessly into day.

Thursday

We arrive in the Alicante region, north of the sun-drenched and tourist-friendly Costa Blanca. Our destination is the beautiful town of Jávea/Xàbia, a town with a seafaring tradition that preserves an interesting historic center with narrow cobbled streets lined with whitewashed houses, buildings with arched doorways, Gothic windows, and iron grilles... all inviting you to explore. But undoubtedly its greatest attraction is its paradisiacal setting of beaches, coves, and beautiful viewpoints, along with a peaceful and sunny coastline ideal for water sports and underwater activities. Pay close attention to the local cuisine; it would be a shame not to try its delicious rice dishes, fish, and fideuà, and especially the incomparable red prawns of the area. Very close by is the Montgó Natural Park, which rises protectively between Jávea and Denia. It is worth visiting the beautiful capes of La Nao, San Martín and San Antonio, or exploring the nearby Terra Mítica theme park in Benidorm, or places like Calpe or Altea.