Valencia - Fallas de Valencia - March

Las Fallas is one of Europe’s wildest street parties where giant papier-mâché effigies of politicians and celebrities are paraded through the streets before being consumed by flames and fireworks – think bonfire night multiplied by 100. Around the clock festivities include paella cooking competitions, parades, bullfights and of course lots and lots of music! Las Fallas is utterly exuberant, slightly anarchic and totally unmissable. The city of Valencia In the last few years, Valencia has undergone a complete regeneration that has put this vibrant Mediterranean city well and truly on the map.  Sometimes known as ‘The Big Orange’ due to the huge citrus groves that surround it, Valencia is a city with a big personality, yet relatively compact and manageable to explore. The maze-like Carmen district is the oldest part of town – a beautifully restored neighbourhood of baroque façades, charming squares and narrow alleys packed with innumerable cafes, bars and restaurants. Things to do Sights include the cathedral, with its emblematic bell-tower and a museum which is home to what it claims is (and the Vatican officially recognises as) the Holy Grail. There is also an outstanding fine arts museum, an impressive contemporary art institute and the Mercat Central – a cathedral of food that sells an astonishing range of fresh produce. The real symbol of Valencia’s renaissance though is the stunningly futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, designed by local-born architect Santiago Calatrava. This complex features some of the most brilliant modern buildings anywhere in the world, including Europe’s largest aquarium. Time to relax On top of all this, Valencia basks in a wonderful climate, with mild winters and over 300 days of sunshine a year, and there are good beaches right on the city’s doorstep. In terms of nightlife, Valencia is revered as a party town by the rest of Spain, which is saying something. Add to this 4 day Las Fallas Festival and you have the complete city break. Your Consultant for your F a l l a s  d e  V a l e n c i a,   S p a i n  trip is: Sholto	Where to Stay Palau De La Mar Type: Contemporary luxury No of rooms: 76 Location: Carmen district