From Valencia: Excursion to Chulilla + hike and kayak tour on the lake

Explore the Charms of Chulilla and Its Spectacular Gorge

This 9-hour day trip from Valencia offers a compelling mix of cultural exploration and outdoor adventure. Starting with a scenic drive to the village of Chulilla, travelers are greeted with views of a fortress perched above historic streets. The tour is ideal for those who enjoy a combination of sightseeing, hiking, and water activities, all set amidst lush landscapes and impressive geological formations.

The experience is designed for active participants, with walks through ancient streets, crossing suspension bridges over the Turia River gorge, and paddling on the Embalse de Loriguilla reservoir. While the tour suits many, it’s best for those who are not afraid of heights, non-swimmers, and individuals under 70 years or 95 kg (209 lbs), as safety restrictions apply.

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Discover Chulilla’s Historic Streets and Fortress Ruins

The journey begins with a visit to the picture-perfect village of Chulilla, known for its imposing fortress ruins that rise above the town. The old town invites a casual stroll through charming, narrow streets, offering glimpses of local life and architecture. This part of the tour emphasizes the area’s medieval past and provides excellent photo opportunities.

The guides lead a guided walk of around 2 hours, highlighting key points of interest like the fortress and the village’s scenic layout. Travelers gain insight into the history of Chulilla, making it more than just a scenic stop. The walk is optional but recommended to fully appreciate the setting before heading towards the natural wonders ahead.

The Spectacular Turia River Gorge and Suspension Bridges

The highlight for many is the hike through the Turia River gorge, considered one of the most striking features of this tour. The trail takes you over two suspension bridges, with one hanging approximately 15 meters above the river and the other 5 meters. These bridges provide thrilling crossings, offering panoramic views of the gorge’s cliffs and verdant slopes.

The hike involves traveling over steep slopes, a lock, and a bridge, culminating at a scenic swimming spot called Charrco Azul. Here, visitors can enjoy a refreshing break, taking in the natural beauty of the area. The entire gorge walk lasts about 2 hours and is characterized by steep terrain and impressive geological formations.

Cross Suspension Bridges and Experience Nature Up Close

The suspension bridges, part of the Puentes Colgantes, stand out as one of the tour’s most memorable features. Crossing them offers a sense of adventure and a chance to capture breathtaking views of the gorge below. The bridges are safe and stable, but they require a comfort with heights for those prone to fear or vertigo.

The walk continues along the gorge, with opportunities to admire the green vegetation, cliffs, and river branches. This stretch showcases the area’s raw natural beauty, combining the thrill of crossing hanging bridges with the serenity of the gorge’s landscape.

Kayaking on the Embalse de Loriguilla

After the hike, the tour shifts to the embalse (reservoir) of Loriguilla, which is considered the tour’s highlight. The shoreline hosts kayaks, ready for use after a brief safety and equipment briefing. Paddling across the crystal-clear, light blue waters, visitors glide past valleys, forests, and scenic river branches.

The kayak trip lasts around 3 hours, allowing plenty of time to explore the reservoir’s tranquil waters and take photos from a unique perspective. The calm waters and lush surroundings make this activity accessible for non-swimmers, provided safety instructions are followed. The break at the ‘Complejo Turistico’ offers a space to share impressions and enjoy the natural setting.

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Flexible Itinerary with a Clear Schedule

The tour’s schedule is designed to balance activity and relaxation. It departs from Valencia at 9:30 a.m., with an initial drive of one hour to Chulilla. After a 30-minute breakfast break, the group can stroll through the old town or visit the fortress ruins for around 2 hours.

Following this, there’s a descent to Charco Azul with a hike through the gorge, including a 30-minute swim. The kayaking session then takes place from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., ending with a break at the ‘Complejo Turistico’ before returning to Valencia by 6:30 p.m. The total activity time ensures a full day of engaging outdoor experiences.

Logistics and Group Size

This tour operates with a small group of up to 8 participants, fostering a more personalized experience. The meeting point is conveniently located at the parking lot to the left of the small park near the “Salida autobús Tomatina” with coordinates 39.45158, -0.39811. The guides conduct the tour in German, English, Spanish, and Polish, making it accessible to a broad audience.

Transportation is in a comfortable minibus, with scheduled pickups and drop-offs that make logistics straightforward. The tour includes a free cancellation policy (up to 24 hours in advance) and a reserve now, pay later option for flexibility.

Physical Requirements and Restrictions

While the activities are adventurous, there are some restrictions for safety and comfort. The tour is not suitable for children under 8 years, people with back problems, fear of heights, epilepsy, altitude sickness, or non-swimmers. Participants over 70 years or weighing more than 95 kg (209 lbs) are also advised against joining.

In addition, baby carriages and alcohol or drugs are not allowed on the tour. It’s advisable for those with certain health conditions to assess their suitability beforehand.

The Experience Provider and Similar Options

The tour is offered by TRONCO TOURS, a provider specializing in outdoor activities. They focus on small group experiences that combine adventure with cultural discovery. Similar excursions include canyon hikes and visits to other scenic spots around Valencia, with options for private tours or full-day adventures.

Links to comparable experiences are available, providing travelers with additional choices for exploring natural landscapes and historic sites in the region.

Final Thoughts on the Chulilla Hike and Kayak Tour

This well-rounded tour from Valencia delivers a satisfying mix of history, adrenaline, and tranquility. The highlighted gorge walk over suspension bridges and the kayaking on the reservoir stand out as memorable features, especially for nature lovers and active travelers.

While the physical activity involved may not suit everyone, the tour’s scenic views, safety measures, and small group setting make it a dependable choice for an engaging day out. The flexible booking options and clear itinerary provide peace of mind, ensuring a smooth experience.

Most visitors who enjoy outdoor pursuits and exploring scenic villages will find this tour rewarding, with enough variety to keep the day lively and memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not suitable for children under 8 years old due to the physical demands and safety restrictions.

Do I need to be a good swimmer?
Non-swimmers can participate in kayaking, provided they follow safety instructions and wear life jackets. However, the tour excludes participants with certain health issues like epilepsy.

What should I bring for the day?
Participants should wear comfortable clothing suitable for hiking and water activities, and bring sun protection and water. The tour provides safety equipment for kayaking.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, the tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind if plans change. You can also reserve now and pay later.

Are there any physical restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not recommended for those with back problems, fear of heights, or health conditions like epilepsy, altitude sickness, or excessive weight over 95 kg (209 lbs).

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