Valencia Trader

Gandia, the duke's residence ....

Sea and mountain, beachfront district on the short and ancient town centre located inland, with lots of history and lots of nightlife and action.  Its beauty captivated King Jaime I and Alexander VI, one of the Borgia popes, who helped to incorporate this city into the mainstream of 15th century European culture.  Members of the Borgia dynasty, conspirators in temple and palace, were famous all over the Mediterranean.

Nautical sports for seafarers

The sea is one of the attractions for all visitors.  In the 'Grao de Gandia', the port district, the broad beach stretches north for over five kilometres.  The seafront promenade is full of attractions for all tastes, with hotels, apartments, residential areas, campgrounds, restaurants, cafes and terraces, ideal for holidaymakers and nightowls.  The port of Gandia, which was once the most important link in the European fruit trade, still has an active fishing fleet.  There is a seawall that protects the Royal Nautical Club from the sea winds, providing space for a full lineup of sports activities for sailing, windsurfing and scuba diving enthusiasts.

History and Art

The Inland Town centre of Gandia offers visitors fine examples of its rich cltural heritage.  The monuments include the Duke's Palace, the Collegiate Church, the Ancient University, the Convent of Santa Clara, the Ayuntamiento (Town Hall), the Archeology Museum and the town's parks and boulevards.

Fiestas and Culture

A stay in Gandia may provide opportunities for enjoying the local fesitivites.  The Fallas are from 15 to 19 March, then comes Holy Week in March/April, both declared as being of interest to tourists.  The Sailors feast in honour of Our Lady of Mt Carmel is on 16 July, and the Night of St John, celebrating the summer solstice, is on 24 June.  Then comes the Fair and feast of Gandia on 29 September to 3 October to honour San Franscico de Borja.  Gandia keeps up culture-wise with a Summer University, annual literary awards, an International Classical Music Festival (July and August) and other artistic events held throughout the year.

Info - Turisme, Generalitat Valenciana