A journey through Valencia and the treasures of the Huerta

17 April 2025

A road trip to discover the European Green Capital and its lush surroundings, all powered by electric mobility.

Discover the beauty of long-distance road trips with Plenitude: original, thrilling routes designed to be experienced exclusively in electric vehicles.

This month we are heading to Spain—more precisely, to Valencia, a surprising Green Capital surrounded by lush countryside just waiting to be explored.

In 2024, Valencia was named the European Green Capital, an award recognizing its commitment to improving quality of life and protecting the environment. This prestigious title reflects a range of initiatives aimed at enhancing air quality, reducing pollution, promoting efficient mobility, and supporting local food production.

The city has invested heavily in green spaces, like the Turia Park—a former riverbed transformed into an expansive urban park—and a citywide reforestation project aimed at increasing the urban tree population.

A key element in Valencia’s achievement is its dedication to local food production, reflected in both agriculture and gastronomy. At the heart of this is the "huerta valenciana", a peri-urban farming area that’s one of the most fertile in Europe. The huerta exemplifies traditional, zero-kilometre farming, using irrigation systems inherited from Arab settlers and cultivation techniques passed down for generations, adapted to the local environment.

This sustainable approach reduces the environmental impact of food production and brings fresh, high-quality ingredients—like sweet oranges and flavorful tomatoes—directly to residents and visitors. These local products are the foundation of Valencia’s rich culinary tradition, proudly showcased in its many restaurants.

Valencia is a city to be savored—not just gastronomically, but also from an urban, cultural, and artistic perspective. Thanks to its well-organized road network and wide availability of charging stations, it is ideal for exploration by electric vehicle. The Plenitude On the Road app helps drivers locate nearby charging points, making the trip even more convenient.

Vista dall'alto di Plaza de la Reina, nel centro di Valencia, Spagna.

Valencia: must-see stops

One iconic destination that has come to symbolize the city is the City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic complex designed by Santiago Calatrava. It features major attractions like Oceanogràfic (Europe’s largest aquarium), Hemisfèric, and the Science Museum—an interactive experience for all ages. More than just an architectural marvel, this site serves as a hub of knowledge and culture.

After your visit, you can recharge your vehicle just 7 minutes away, as indicated by the Plenitude On the Road app.

Another highly recommended stop is the Hortensia Herrero Art Centre, inaugurated in November 2023. Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, this contemporary art space is a testament to Valencia’s commitment to preserving its architectural heritage while embracing modernity.

Inside, you will find works by internationally renowned artists, from mirror-like sculptures that play with spatial perception to expressive, inverted canvases. The center also features immersive light-and-motion installations that deliver unique sensory experiences. A charging station is conveniently located just 3 minutes away.

The historic city center is Valencia’s beating heart, home to the majestic Valencia Cathedral, the bustling Central Market and Colón Market, and the UNESCO World Heritage Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda). Strolling through these streets is like stepping back in time, among Gothic buildings and lively markets offering fresh products from the huerta. You will find a charging point just 10 minutes away from the city center.

For a slower pace and some well-deserved relaxation, head to urban beaches like La Malvarrosa. The seafront is perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying delicious seafood in one of the many local restaurants.

From Huerta to table: must-try specialties

To fully experience Valencia’s “green side,” hop in your electric car and drive out to the huerta. Here, you can participate in rural culinary experiences and learn more about the region’s rich agricultural traditions.

Whether you are in the huerta or the heart of the city, Valencia’s gastronomy will win you over with its diversity and depth. Don’t miss the iconic Valencian paella, prepared the traditional way using rice from Albufera, flavored with saffron and rosemary.

For a deeper dive into the region’s culture, try arroz del senyoret, all i pebre, or esgarraet. Between meals, cool off with the refreshing horchata, typically enjoyed with fartons (sweet pastries perfect for dipping), or sip on a glass of Agua de Valencia, a cocktail made with fresh orange juice from the huerta.

Valencia is a city in constant transformation, yet it always surprises visitors with something new. Between futuristic architecture and age-old traditions, turquoise waters and green spaces, every visit offers a fresh, immersive experience.

Whether you are planning a romantic escape, a road trip with friends, or a family holiday, Valencia captivates with its vibrant energy and laid-back lifestyle. Here, every street corner tells a story, every meal is a celebration, and every sunset brings a new emotion.

As the city continues to evolve, it remains true to its authentic, welcoming, and lively spirit. Once you visit, you will be eager to return.

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