Chulilla: The Hidden Gem of Inland Valencia
Tucked into a dramatic gorge carved by the River Turia, Chulilla is one of Spain’s most photogenic little towns. Whitewashed houses cling to a rocky outcrop, and a ruined castle watches over it all. Best of all, it sits just an hour from Valencia city, so it’s perfect for a day trip or a relaxed weekend away. Whether you fancy hiking, swimming, or simply soaking up village life, Chulilla delivers. Let’s dive into everything this special spot has to offer.
What to see and do
First things first: no trip to Chulilla is complete without a visit to the Charco Azul. This vivid turquoise pool sits at the bottom of the canyon and was originally built by Moorish settlers in the 12th century to irrigate the orchards. Today, it’s a favourite swimming spot, especially in summer when the shaded gorge offers welcome relief from the heat. A wooden pier lets you wade or jump straight in. The walk down takes around 20 minutes, and the full circular route covers roughly 3.6 kilometres.
Next, make your way up to the Castillo de Chulilla, perched dramatically above the village. Originally Moorish, the fortress later became a medieval stronghold, and although it’s now in ruins, the climb is well worth it. Entry is free, and the panoramic views over the Turia valley are simply stunning. Information panels along the path explain the site’s long history, so you’ll learn something as you go.
Afterwards, head out to the Puentes Colgantes, or hanging bridges, on the Ruta de los Calderones. This 9-kilometre trail crosses the narrowest part of the canyon on a series of swaying metal bridges, with sheer cliffs rising on either side. It suits most fitness levels and works well for families with older children, though supervision near the edges is essential. Along the way, you’ll pass the Mirador de Compuertas and the Mirador de la Carrucha, two viewpoints that offer jaw-dropping views straight down into the gorge. Buy Tickets.
Climbers, take note: Chulilla is internationally famous for its sport climbing routes. The limestone walls around the gorge attract climbers from across Europe, with hundreds of bolted routes suited to all abilities. Even if you’ve never climbed before, several local operators run guided sessions, so it’s worth asking around in the village.
Finally, wander the old town itself. Narrow medieval streets wind up towards the 16th-century church, and the Plaza de la Baronía makes a lovely spot to pause for a coffee. Every corner offers a new photo opportunity, so leave plenty of time to explore on foot.
Local festivals and traditions
Chulilla might be small, but it certainly knows how to celebrate. In early May, the town hosts Los Mayos, a centuries-old festival honouring the Virgen de la Rosa. Riders in traditional Valencian dress parade through the streets on horseback, and locals build huge decorative arrangements from poplar branches, known as “enramás”. The festival closes with “El Pollo”, where two human towers compete to reach a ham and a loaf of bread suspended above the crowd.
Come August, the town honours its patron saint during the Fiestas de Santa Bárbara. The celebrations begin with a procession carrying the saint’s image from her hermitage into the village, followed by a week of communal dinners, open-air dances, and fireworks. Shortly after, the Fiestas de la Ermita take over the hermitage neighbourhood, marking more than 30 years of tradition as a way to bid farewell to summer.
Meanwhile, September brings the quirky Fiestas del Cristo del Perdón, also known as “Las Cruces”. Neighbourhoods across town compete to build the most original cross, crafted from whatever materials residents can imagine. Since each one is different, wandering the streets to spot them all makes for a fun, low-key evening out.
Where to stay
For the full village experience, base yourself in the old town near the Plaza de la Baronía. Staying here means you’re within walking distance of restaurants, the church, and the castle path, and you’ll get to enjoy Chulilla’s atmosphere after the day-trippers have gone home. Several charming casas rurales occupy converted traditional houses in this part of town.
Alternatively, if hiking, climbing, or swimming top your list, consider staying near the Urbanización Santa Bárbara, on the edge of the village. This area sits closer to the main car parks for the Charco Azul and the hanging bridges, making early starts much easier. It’s a popular choice among climbers, too, since several accommodations cater specifically to outdoor enthusiasts.
For something quieter still, look just outside the village towards the surrounding countryside. Rural guesthouses here offer peaceful gardens, mountain views, and a real sense of escape, ideal if you’re after a proper digital detox. Book Accommodation.
How to get to Chulilla
If you’re flying in from abroad, Valencia Airport is your best bet, sitting roughly 60 kilometres from Chulilla. Alicante Airport also works as a secondary option, particularly if you find a cheaper fare. Both Madrid and Barcelona airports offer good onward connections too, should your trip include other Spanish destinations. Book flights.
There’s no direct train station in Chulilla itself, but Renfe operates regular services from Madrid and Barcelona into Valencia, with the high-speed AVE taking around 90 minutes from Madrid. From Valencia, you’ll need to continue by road, either with a hire car or a connecting bus. Check connections.
Honestly, though, driving is by far the easiest way to reach Chulilla. The journey from Valencia city takes about 45 minutes along the CV-35 and CV-370, and having your own car also makes it much simpler to reach the various trailheads and car parks dotted around the gorge. Hire a Car. Already in Spain? Get directions.
Prefer public transport? Autocares La Hispano Chelvana runs a bus service between Valencia’s bus station and Chulilla via Losa del Obispo, though it isn’t always direct and services can be limited on weekends and holidays. The journey takes roughly 90 minutes to two and a half hours, depending on connections, so it’s worth checking timetables in advance. Buy Tickets.
However you choose to arrive, Chulilla rewards the effort many times over. Between the turquoise waters of the Charco Azul, the swaying hanging bridges, and the ruined castle above it all, this little corner of inland Valencia genuinely earns its reputation as one of Spain’s most beautiful villages. Pack your hiking boots, bring your swimsuit, and get ready to fall for Chulilla just like everyone else has.