Xàtiva (pronounced sha-ti-va) is a small and charming Spanish town located in the Valencian Community. It’s about an hour train ride from the city center of Valencia. The town is well known locally for its beautiful castle ruins just a short hike from the town center.
I woke up last Friday with the intention to go to Xàtiva and film a video for my Youtube channel. I went the week before as well, but unfortunately, my camera had an SD card issue, so I lost all of my footage from that day. However, I knew I needed to go back, as the town is too majestic not to show to the world.
So, I took my camera with me and made the trek back to ol’ Xàtiva!
When I first got off the train and stepped onto the streets of Xàtiva, I was immediately enchanted. It is the quintessential example of a traditional Spanish town. The train station even has a typical Spanish bar with beers on tap and a variety of tapas. Other than its beauty, my first impressions of the town were its bustling streets and central market. Residents of the town can be easily heard filling the streets and terraces with their chatter and gossip. Many elderly couples were bundled up, walking arm and arm to find some relief from the brisk winter winds.
As I made my way to the central market, I found myself becoming purposefully lost in the captivating alleyways of the town. Every alley is similar but somehow retains its own identity. I was dazzled by the many hanging vines and potted plants that gave the baloneys so much character.
I then made my way to the town center, which has a busy market in the morning. Some meats, spices, and vegetables could be found, but vendors were mostly selling cheap clothes and accessories.
I eventually reached the base of the road to the castle ruins and began my ascent. When first starting the hike, I was greeted with great views of the city below. Various sounds of the town could also be heard: church bells, children playing, and sputtering car engines.
The hike takes around 30-40 minutes depending on your pace. When I arrived at the castle gates, I encountered beautiful doors and a massive archway. The castle has several different lookout points where you have a 360 view of the quaint town below.
All in all, Xàtiva is a wonderful day journey from Valencia if you want to get a taste of traditional pueblo life in Spain; beautiful views, fresh air, and a slower pace of life.
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