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August 31st, 2008 admin
Affordable rates and clean, comfortable rooms are all apart of your stay with us. We are conveniently located on State Street, just a short distance from downtown Santa Barbara, beaches, UC Santa Barbara campus, and all the attractions for which Santa Barbara is famous.
When getting the most for the least is the best…Hacienda Motel is your destination motel. For comfortable hotel / motel accommodations, we’re the best hotel value in Santa Barbara.
Central to shopping, restaurants, close to UC Santa Barbara Campus, Sansum Medical Clinic, Earl Warren Showgrounds, and just 2 miles form Santa barbaras famous beaches.
Lush, sun-drenched, relaxed and nestled seductively between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Santa Barbara is one of America’s best-kept secrets. From State Street and the Santa Ynez Mountains to the Channel Islands and the wine country, Santa Barbara basks in sunshine, natural bounty, creativity, cultural sophistication and an appreciation for taking life at your own pace.
Enjoy a host of Santa Barbara activities – from shopping to hiking, and from wine tasting to playing golf. Southern California’s year-long Mediterranean climate sets the stage for a continuous buzz of activity. Catch the electric shuttle from our front steps and head to State Street, where you’ll discover an active nightlife scene, shopping, and restaurants. Experience all of the enchantment as our guest.
Free High Speed Wireless Internet and - High Speed Cable Ethernet - Air Conditioning Room - Cable TV with HBO, CNN, ESPN, FOX Sports - Free Local Calls - Microwave, Refrigator, Hair Dryer.
In Room Coffee, Iron / Ironboard - Some rooms with complete kitchenettes - Free Parking including Trucks - Extended Stays Welcome - Centrally Located in Santa Barbara
End at 3643 State St
Santa Barbara CA 93105-2521 - California
Phone: 805.687-6461
Email: haciendamotel@hotmail.com
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August 31st, 2008 admin
Affordable rates and clean, comfortable rooms are all apart of your stay with us. We are conveniently located on State Street, just a short distance from downtown Santa Barbara, beaches, UC Santa Barbara campus, and all the attractions for which Santa Barbara is famous.
When getting the most for the least is the best…Hacienda Motel is your destination motel. For comfortable hotel / motel accommodations, we’re the best hotel value in Santa Barbara.
Central to shopping, restaurants, close to UC Santa Barbara Campus, Sansum Medical Clinic, Earl Warren Showgrounds, and just 2 miles form Santa barbaras famous beaches.
Lush, sun-drenched, relaxed and nestled seductively between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Santa Barbara is one of America’s best-kept secrets. From State Street and the Santa Ynez Mountains to the Channel Islands and the wine country, Santa Barbara basks in sunshine, natural bounty, creativity, cultural sophistication and an appreciation for taking life at your own pace.
Enjoy a host of Santa Barbara activities – from shopping to hiking, and from wine tasting to playing golf. Southern California’s year-long Mediterranean climate sets the stage for a continuous buzz of activity. Catch the electric shuttle from our front steps and head to State Street, where you’ll discover an active nightlife scene, shopping, and restaurants. Experience all of the enchantment as our guest.
Free High Speed Wireless Internet and - High Speed Cable Ethernet - Air Conditioning Room - Cable TV with HBO, CNN, ESPN, FOX Sports - Free Local Calls - Microwave, Refrigator, Hair Dryer.
In Room Coffee, Iron / Ironboard - Some rooms with complete kitchenettes - Free Parking including Trucks - Extended Stays Welcome - Centrally Located in Santa Barbara
End at 3643 State St
Santa Barbara CA 93105-2521 - California
Phone: 805.687-6461
Email: haciendamotel@hotmail.com
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August 29th, 2008 admin
The Kiko Park campsite in Oliva of Valencia, boasts a unique selling point in offering its guests rest and relaxation oll year round. The complex is equipped with the most state-of-the-art facilities within a setting that is relaxing in itself — the Mediterranean — making it an excellent and unique establishment in the world of relaxation. The complex also has all the service that guests could possibly need, whether they are staying in the apartments or camping.
As well as the swimming pools, children‘s entertainment, laundry services and the supermarket, Kiko Park also benefits from innovations such as the Kiko Park SPA Wellness Center, which enjoys cutting-edge footbaths, contrast showers, a sauna, Turkish baths and a spa. Similarly, the restaurant is recommended by the prestigious Michelin Guide for its modern Mediterranean cuisine using only the freshest ingredients from land
and sea.
The well-being of guests is the central tenet at Kiko Park, so not only are the large part of the facilities geared towards this, but the most is also made of the complex’s seaside location to offer guests an extensive range of services and activities to promote health and relaxation.
The Kiko Park campsite has been awarded both the prestigious DCC Europa Preiss 2008 and the Adac Camping Caravaning Award 2008, which were presented as part of the CMT International Tourism Fair in Stuttgart and Reise Camping in Essen.
Camping Kiko Paris
C/ Assagador de carro, 2
46780 Oliva (Valencia)
Tel. 962 850 905
Grab this Widget by Wowzio
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August 29th, 2008 admin
The Kiko Park campsite in Oliva of Valencia, boasts a unique selling point in offering its guests rest and relaxation oll year round. The complex is equipped with the most state-of-the-art facilities within a setting that is relaxing in itself — the Mediterranean — making it an excellent and unique establishment in the world of relaxation. The complex also has all the service that guests could possibly need, whether they are staying in the apartments or camping.
As well as the swimming pools, children‘s entertainment, laundry services and the supermarket, Kiko Park also benefits from innovations such as the Kiko Park SPA Wellness Center, which enjoys cutting-edge footbaths, contrast showers, a sauna, Turkish baths and a spa. Similarly, the restaurant is recommended by the prestigious Michelin Guide for its modern Mediterranean cuisine using only the freshest ingredients from land
and sea.
The well-being of guests is the central tenet at Kiko Park, so not only are the large part of the facilities geared towards this, but the most is also made of the complex’s seaside location to offer guests an extensive range of services and activities to promote health and relaxation.
The Kiko Park campsite has been awarded both the prestigious DCC Europa Preiss 2008 and the Adac Camping Caravaning Award 2008, which were presented as part of the CMT International Tourism Fair in Stuttgart and Reise Camping in Essen.
Camping Kiko Paris
C/ Assagador de carro, 2
46780 Oliva (Valencia)
Tel. 962 850 905
Grab this Widget by Wowzio
Posted in Tourism | No Comments »
August 21st, 2008 admin
Peaceful sands, rocky coves and sweeping, boulder-strewn beaches make for the harmonious combination of stone and sea in the south of the Province of Castellon between Almenara and Burriana. Here the asphalt comes to an end, giving way to the lingering dark green of the orange groves that softly sway in the evening breeze, to the life of wetlands and water sources, to the chalky rocks that change their hue with the passing of the hours and to an oasis of palm trees scattered on the very seashore. Nearby the spectacular modernist architecture of Burriana, the mediaeval walled town of Mascarell near Nules and the beachesand wetlands of Almenara Xilxes and Moncofa — the remnants of an ancient marshland which survive thanks to their streams of crystal-clear waters — wili make a deep impression on any visitor.
The Alrnenara Iandscape sweeps harrnoniously down from the Sierra de Espadán mountains to the still, emerald - green waters of its wetlands.
The word natural perfectly encapsulates Almenara, the first coastal town in southern Castellón. Its landscape sweeps harmoniously down from the rolling beauty of the Sierra de Espadán foothills to the still, emerald-green waters of its wetlands: three lagoons that are the remnants of an ancient marshland and survive thanks to their freshwater springs — ullals in Valencian — which flow almost as far as the Mediterranean.
The beach at Almenara, which is called Casablanca beach, stretches for over three kilometres and still retains the flavour and tranquillity of the summers of yesteryear. Composed of stone, pebbles and boulders, it is bordered at one end by a freshwater channel called Gola and a hundred-year-old eucalyptus tree that stands over 17 metres tall. Along the wilder stretches of the beach, the silence of the surfers and sailors is broken only by the sound of the waves and the seagulls, while its more urban stretches, which are overlooked by small fishermen‘s houses, habitually ring to the sound of summer fun.
A stroll amongst the wetlands or estanys reveals the area’s flora and fauna, its agriculture and also its history. The trail begins at the old quarry, which has since been made into a recreational area, and then rises to an outcrop known as La Penya dels Estanys. It was here, with the breathtaking views, that the Romans built a temple — in honour of the goddess Venus, no less — and where they pitched camp while they were building the dam at Sagunto.
The next stop is the wetland with its three lakes separated by reed beds and filled with water from aquifers on the Sierra de Espadan range, which springs naturally forth from the ullals. The trail then continues on to the forest of white mulberries, an unusual wooded area that provides the local ecosystem with great riches. From the white mulberries, the trail takes us to the rice fields, one of the most characteristic sights in the Region of Valencia’s wetlands. Along the way, walkers may spot some of the local plants and animals, such as reeds, cat’s tail, tamarinds and, until recently, water lilies, or the common toad, water snakes, tortoises and birds, including the blue duck and the heron.
Xilxes, two beaches and a lookout.
Next stop along the trail is a stretch of coastline with just over one kilometre of perfectly unspoilt beach that belongs to the town of La Llosa, between Almenara and Xilxes. La Llosa is blessed with a great number of fountains, such as La Fonteta, La Font Redona and La Font del Carcau, and it also shares marshlands with Almenara and Xilxes.
Of Moorish origin, La Llosa sits on the flattest area of the Plana Baixa district among orange groves and rice paddies. A peaceful esplanade one and a half kilometres long begins just outside of La Llosa. Taking in both paved and landscaped areas, it runs the length of the two beaches at Xilxes: El Cerezo beach and Les Cases beach. El Cerezo, which literally means Cherry Tree Beach, is noted for its gently sloping golden sands, while Les Cases beach is much more urban and in summer is home to many cultural activities and youth competitions.
Worthy of special mention along this stretch of the Castellon coastline is the walkway that extends 100 metres out to sea and offers visitors the unusual sensation of floating over the Mediterranean waters. There are also severa! breakwaters set along the shore at Xilxes, making it a great place to enjoy a spot of fishing. To the east of Xilxes and bordering the coastal towrn stands a wetland area of major ecological importance, teeming with hidden life.
The old quarter of Xilxes is three kilometres from the sea. Despite its lack of major architectonic constructions, it is well worth visiting thanks to its parish church dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Built in a neo-classical style over the remains of a previous temple dating back to Roman times, it is one of the few churches that still has its primitive façade in good condition. The church stands on Plaza de España square, alongside the Ayuntamiento (Town Hall), the Casa Abadia (Abbot’s House) and the Fuente de la Unión fountain.
Moncofa
Moncofa is a town of Moorish ongin. After its fall to King Jaume I in 1254, the Aragonese nobleman Guillem de Montcada granted the Carta Puebla charter to Bernat Mestres and 37 other inhabitants. Moncofa was traditionally a fishing village, and nowadays the Moncofa coastline stretches for over six kilometres and includes a wetland known as l’estanyol plus six beaches.
The geological make-up of Moncofa is due to a large extent to the Belcaire River, which was previously known as the Rio d’Uixó and which forms a delta at Moncofa, sloping down into the sea. The Belcaire was a major commercial route, and the archaeological remains of lberians, Romans and Carthaginians have been found in its vicinity. Moncofa offers a huge variety of walks, from hikes through the rugged landscape of l’estanyol, with spectacular views over the estuary, the beaches and the Torre Forçada de Beniesma tower, to other more cultural and historical strolls taking in sights such as the Santa Maria Magdalena church, the modernist fountain in the square, the Santa Maria hermitage and the remnants of the fortified walls that used to defend the city of yore against Berber incursions. As well as the City walks and the nature trail through l’estanyol, there is also a signposted path to the Roman villa of La Alqueria (The Farmstead).
Dating from the 3 century AD, these remains reveal an agricultural villa from the imperial age, which stood at the crossroads between the Via Augusta and the cami Cabras, a road that used to run from Vall d’Uixo to the La Torre jetty whence cereals, wines and oils would be exportad to Roma. Along this path, visitors can also see the reed beds of the River belcaire, which are of great natural interest.
Posted in Tourism | No Comments »
August 21st, 2008 admin
Peaceful sands, rocky coves and sweeping, boulder-strewn beaches make for the harmonious combination of stone and sea in the south of the Province of Castellon between Almenara and Burriana. Here the asphalt comes to an end, giving way to the lingering dark green of the orange groves that softly sway in the evening breeze, to the life of wetlands and water sources, to the chalky rocks that change their hue with the passing of the hours and to an oasis of palm trees scattered on the very seashore. Nearby the spectacular modernist architecture of Burriana, the mediaeval walled town of Mascarell near Nules and the beaches and wetlands of Almenara Xilxes and Moncofa — the remnants of an ancient marshland which survive thanks to their streams of crystal-clear waters — wili make a deep impression on any visitor.
The Alrnenara Iandscape sweeps harrnoniously down from the Sierra de Espadán mountains to the still, emerald - green waters of its wetlands.
The word natural perfectly encapsulates Almenara, the first coastal town in southern Castellón. Its landscape sweeps harmoniously down from the rolling beauty of the Sierra de Espadán foothills to the still, emerald-green waters of its wetlands: three lagoons that are the remnants of an ancient marshland and survive thanks to their freshwater springs — ullals in Valencian — which flow almost as far as the Mediterranean.
The beach at Almenara, which is called Casablanca beach, stretches for over three kilometres and still retains the flavour and tranquillity of the summers of yesteryear. Composed of stone, pebbles and boulders, it is bordered at one end by a freshwater channel called Gola and a hundred-year-old eucalyptus tree that stands over 17 metres tall. Along the wilder stretches of the beach, the silence of the surfers and sailors is broken only by the sound of the waves and the seagulls, while its more urban stretches, which are overlooked by small fishermen‘s houses, habitually ring to the sound of summer fun.
A stroll amongst the wetlands or estanys reveals the area’s flora and fauna, its agriculture and also its history. The trail begins at the old quarry, which has since been made into a recreational area, and then rises to an outcrop known as La Penya dels Estanys. It was here, with the breathtaking views, that the Romans built a temple — in honour of the goddess Venus, no less — and where they pitched camp while they were building the dam at Sagunto.
The next stop is the wetland with its three lakes separated by reed beds and filled with water from aquifers on the Sierra de Espadan range, which springs naturally forth from the ullals. The trail then continues on to the forest of white mulberries, an unusual wooded area that provides the local ecosystem with great riches. From the white mulberries, the trail takes us to the rice fields, one of the most characteristic sights in the Region of Valencia’s wetlands. Along the way, walkers may spot some of the local plants and animals, such as reeds, cat’s tail, tamarinds and, until recently, water lilies, or the common toad, water snakes, tortoises and birds, including the blue duck and the heron.
Xilxes, two beaches and a lookout.
Next stop along the trail is a stretch of coastline with just over one kilometre of perfectly unspoilt beach that belongs to the town of La Llosa, between Almenara and Xilxes. La Llosa is blessed with a greatnumber of fountains, such as La Fonteta, La Font Redona and La Font del Carcau, and it also shares marshlands with Almenara and Xilxes.
Of Moorish origin, La Llosa sits on the flattest area of the Plana Baixa district among orange groves and rice paddies. A peaceful esplanade one and a half kilometres long begins just outside of La Llosa. Taking in both paved and landscaped areas, it runs the length of the two beaches at Xilxes: El Cerezo beach and Les Cases beach. El Cerezo, which literally means Cherry Tree Beach, is noted for its gently sloping golden sands, while Les Cases beach is much more urban and in summer is home to many cultural activities and youth competitions.
Worthy of special mention along this stretch of the Castellon coastline is the walkway that extends 100 metres out to sea and offers visitors the unusual sensation of floating over the Mediterranean waters. There are also severa! breakwaters set along the shore at Xilxes, making it a great place to enjoy a spot of fishing. To the east of Xilxes and bordering the coastal towrn stands a wetland area of major ecological importance, teeming with hidden life.
The old quarter of Xilxes is three kilometres from the sea. Despite its lack of major architectonic constructions, it is well worth visiting thanks to its parish church dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Built in a neo-classical style over the remains of a previous temple dating back to Roman times, it is one of the few churches that still has its primitive façade in good condition. The church stands on Plaza de España square, alongside the Ayuntamiento (Town Hall), the Casa Abadia (Abbot’s House) and the Fuente de la Unión fountain.
Moncofa
Moncofa is a town of Moorish ongin. After its fall to King Jaume I in 1254, the Aragonese nobleman Guillem de Montcada granted the Carta Puebla charter to Bernat Mestres and 37 other inhabitants. Moncofa was traditionally a fishing village, and nowadays the Moncofa coastline stretches for over six kilometres and includes a wetland known as l’estanyol plus six beaches.
The geological make-up of Moncofa is due to a large extent to the Belcaire River, which was previously known as the Rio d’Uixó and which forms a delta at Moncofa, sloping down into the sea. The Belcaire was a major commercial route, and the archaeological remains of lberians, Romans and Carthaginians have been found in its vicinity. Moncofa offers a huge variety of walks, from hikes through the rugged landscape of l’estanyol, with spectacular views over the estuary, the beaches and the Torre Forçada de Beniesma tower, to other more cultural and historical strolls taking in sights such as the Santa Maria Magdalena church, the modernist fountain in the square, the Santa Maria hermitage and the remnants of the fortified walls that used to defend the city of yore against Berber incursions. As well as the City walks and the nature trail through l’estanyol, there is also a signposted path to the Roman villa of La Alqueria (The Farmstead).
Dating from the 3 century AD, these remains reveal an agricultural villa from the imperial age, which stood at the crossroads between the Via Augusta and the cami Cabras, a road that used to run from Vall d’Uixo to the La Torre jetty whence cereals, wines and oils would be exportad to Roma. Along this path, visitors can also see the reed beds of the River belcaire, which are of great natural interest.
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August 7th, 2008 admin
The Hilton Group has earmarked the Region of Valencia as a destination for the corporate tourism of business, conferences and meetings by opening the Hilton Valencia. This great international 5-star hotel is located opposite the Palacio de Congresos conference centre, in one of the city’s new areas of expansion.
The luxury hotel boasts 304 rooms; 35 of which are suites and 10 of which are relaxation rooms, which have their own jacuzzi and are fully devoted to rest and relaxation. Floors 28 and 29 house two presidential suites, with one per floor, and the hotel also features 16 meating rooms, a large ballroom and a ceremonial hall.
The Hilton Valencia opened its doors in May 2007 with the intention of becoming the clear leader of the cify’s hotel industry — aspirations aided by the fact that the hotel is the city’s tallest skyscraper, towering over one of the Regional capital’s largest areas of expansion. Built from glass and composite materials, and occupying two buildings — one of 29 storeys and the other of 14 — the hotel has been praised by architects and town planners alike.
Inside the Valencia Hilton is the Restaurante BICE, which is directly accessible from street level and is only the second of its kind in Spain, following the opening of the Madrid restaurant. Like BICE restaurants the world over, it is a youthful establishment, with an elegant and warm atmosphere. The menu is dominated by top-of-the-range Italian specialities, featuring great pasta dishes, exquisite meats, salads and other Italian delights. The décor has bean tailored to blend well with the Hilton’s modern setting, enjoying the warmth of wood and Art Deco elements.
Posted in Tourism | No Comments »
August 7th, 2008 admin
The Hilton Group has earmarked the Region of Valencia as a destination for the corporate tourism of business, conferences and meetings by opening the Hilton Valencia. This great international 5-star hotel is located opposite the Palacio de Congresos conference centre, in one of the city’s new areas of expansion.
The luxury hotel boasts 304 rooms; 35 of which are suites and 10 of which are relaxation rooms, which have their own jacuzzi and are fully devoted to rest and relaxation. Floors 28 and 29 house two presidential suites, with one per floor, and the hotel also features 16 meating rooms, a large ballroom and a ceremonial hall.
The Hilton Valencia opened its doors in May 2007 with the intention of becoming the clear leader of the cify’s hotel industry — aspirations aided by the fact that the hotel is the city’s tallest skyscraper, towering over one of the Regional capital’s largest areas of expansion. Built from glass and composite materials, and occupying two buildings — one of 29 storeys and the other of 14 — the hotel has been praised by architects and town planners alike.
Inside the Valencia Hilton is the Restaurante BICE, which is directly accessible from street level and is only the second of its kind in Spain, following the opening of the Madrid restaurant. Like BICE restaurants the world over, it is a youthful establishment, with an elegant and warm atmosphere. The menu is dominated by top-of-the-range Italian specialities, featuring great pasta dishes, exquisite meats, salads and other Italian delights. The décor has bean tailored to blend well with the Hilton’s modern setting, enjoying the warmth of wood and Art Deco elements.
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August 3rd, 2008 admin
The town’s history is dotted with the remnants of many civilisations that, just like the dinosaurs, have made their mark over the years. 140 million years ago, Alpuente was flat and swampy, and it was not inland but on the shore of a sea that no longer exists.
While Alpuente remote history — its prehistory — is very exciting, so too is its more recent history, which began with an Iberian settlement before undergoing Roman then Moorish rule and which retained its power throughout the Middle Ages. This endless history reaches modern times with remnants of all of these civilisations that, just like the dinosaurs, left their mark over the years.
Standing on a col between the mountains of San Cristóbal and El Castillo, Alpuente still boasts much olde worlde charm. Little stone streets, fine houses with shields and coats of arms, stately homes and a spectacular defensive wall line an urban trail brimming with contrasts between the recent past and ancient history, between history and legend, and even between science and nature.
Looming over Alpuente like an enormous watchtower stand the Roman and Moorish ruins of the castle, which reveal the glorious past of these lands whose history stretches back for millions of years. Visitors to the castle can discover wells, cisterns, warehouses and the magnificent Torre de la Veleta tower.
Very close to the castle stands the Our Lady of Mercy church, Nuestra Señora de la Piedad, with a single nave and an octagonal bell tower constructed between the 13th and 15th centuries. The former mosque, which is now the Town Hall, is a stone-built gem that stands just above the entranceway to the fortified town. Alpuente also still retains a mediaeval town structure with magnificent ancestral homes, aristocratic coats of arms, ancient ovens and ornate ironwork. A stroll may come to an end at the edge of town but the surprises just keep on coming, with the Los Arcos aqueduct near the hamlet of Las Eras.
This hydraulic construction of mediaeval origin was created to supply the population with water from the Nueva and Marimacho springs, and to irrigate the extraordinary terraced fields, which were so rare in mediaeval times.
Following the Roman occupation, Alpuente became part of Al-Andalus in the 8th century and remained so until 1031, when the caliphate of Córdoba crumbled and the town was declared an independent Kingdom of Taifas. During this time, culture flourished and the economy boomed, until the town was conquered by Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar “El Cid” in 1089.
A century later, following the conquest by Jaume I in 1236, Alpuente still retained its importance, as evidenced by the two meetings of the Courts of the Kingdom of Valencia (Las Cortes del Reino de Valencia) held here in 1319 and 1389.
Much, much earlier — millions of years earlier — Alpuente was very different to the town we see today. The land was flat and swampy, crisscrossed by rivers and streams, and it wasn‘t inland but was on the shore of a sea that no longer exists. It was here, in a perfect habitat among the marshes, that lived the largest animals to have ever roamed the Earth: The dinosaurs.
Colossal beasts such as sauropods, stegosauruses and allosaurus-type theropods walked the lands of Alpuente, leaving their mark in the way of countless fossilised footprints made by creature that man would never have set eyes upon but which palaeontologists and film-makers have often since reconstructed, much to the excitement of all.
The footprints at Corcolilla, the only Alpuente site open to the general public, belong to dinosaurs of various shapes and sizes, and were made as the creatures walked upon a soft substrate such as mud or sand, which was then filled in with a different sediment that covered and protected them. Showing three toes, the pads, the claws and the heel, these footprints have enabled study into the behaviour of the dinosaurs at Alpuente, their physical characteristics and the speed at which they moved from one place to another.
Dinosaurs used to uve in Alpuente, and their bones and footprints are proof of this. Palaeontologists have analysed the fossils and footprints found in minute detail, and the strength of the finds has led Alpuente to become a dream-cometrue in recent years for both scientists and aficionados alike. Few people fail to have their curiosity aroused by the dinosaurs, and in many cases whole families are eager to untangle the secret of just how these enormous and fascinating creatures used to live, 140 million years ago.
No fewer than half a dozen sites featuring footprints and a dozen of fossilised bone sites lie within the extensive lands of Alpuente, a territory whipped by winds and the passing of time but which still nevertheless bears the deepscars of Prehistory The lost world of the dinosaurs has been reconstructed through the valuable pieces displayed in a museum that houses an almost complete skeleton of a young dinosaur and countless bones plus fossils of marine creatures and plants, and a hall/workshop where naturally mummified remains are restored and the bones, teeth and claws of these giant beasts are on display. History is also brought back to life at the footprint sites, particularly that at Corcolilla, with over 100 footprints ranging in size between 12 and 54 cm, some made by small and large herbivorous dinosaurs and others, larger still, by carnivores, the most restless and swift of the “terrible lizards”
The dinosaurs at Alpuente date back to the Jurassic period, an age ruled by the great sauropods, which appeared in the Lower Jurassic period and reached their peak and maximum diversification in the Upper jurassic. It was during this time that birds first appeared, although there was still no grass and nor had flowering plants developed. This was also when Pangaea gradually began to separate, to eventually form the distribution of the continents we see today.
The perfect habitat and leisurely life of the dinosaurs came to an end when a meteorite measuring 10 km across slammed into the Earth on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, creating a crater over 200 km wide. This cataclysm took place 65 million years ago and completely wiped out the dinosaurs, paving the way for mammals to rule the planet and fostering the rise of human beings in Alpuente and around the world.
Farming and ranching activities, plus the transportation difficulties of days gone by, meant that numerous hamlets were formed in the Alpuente area, such as Almeza, Baldovar, Campo de Abajo, Campo de Arriba, La Canaleja, El Collado, Corcolilla, La Cuevarruz, Las Eras and El Hontanar, which are inhabited all year round. There are other hamlets such as La Torre and La Carrasca, which are holiday homes, and several more that are now deserted, like La Hortichuela, El Chopo, Berandía, Vizcota, Cañada Seca and Pozo Marín. A 45-km walking and cycling trail runs through all of Alpuente’s inhab ited hamlets, with a difficulty rating of medium to hard.
Marked by a white-and-red symbol with a dinosaur and a castle, the trail begins in Alpuente and then runs to Las Eras, a hamlet also known as La Aldea del Obispo Hernández (The Hamiet of Bishop Hernández), which is a little ovar 1 km away. Here visitors can enjoy spectacular views of Alpuente, La Hoz, La Loma de San Cristóbal, El Barranco del Reguero, the terraced gardens and the magnificent castle at Alpuente.
A 7-km route leads to La Cuevarruz, a hamlet comprising three neighbourhoods and which belongs to the neighbouring municipahity of La Yesa as well as Alpuente. The San José hermitage and an ancient windmillare two of its most emblematic buildings.
A little over 2 km further on is La Almeza, when visitors can explore a wood of centenary savines. Known as Las Trabinas de Cañadas Pastores and the only one of its kind in the whole of the Region of Valencia, this wood is one of the most beautiful natural locations in Alpuente. Then trail then continues on to Corcolilla, where there in archaeological site of prehistoric fossils. Nearby is one of the smallest hamlets, El Hontanar, whose San Cristóbal hermitage is a must-see.
Almost 5 km further along the trail is El Collado, a hamlet home to Alpuente’s second castle, the Castillo del Poyo, and the 19th century church of San Miguel Arcángel.
The longest stretch of the trail runs between El Collado and Baldovar another beautiful hamlet with a hermitage built in honour of San Roque. After Baldovar the trail heads for Campo de Arriba, the biggest of Alpuente’s hamlets, which boasts a fountain dedicated to Santa Bárbara. The water comes from the Fuente que Nace spring on the mountain, where visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the valley.
From Campo de Arriba to Campo de Abajo, the last of the hamlets to the south of Alpuente. Here visitors will find the San Isidro Labrador hermitage plus the La Hoz canyon, which is very close to the outskirts of the village, before closing the circular route on their return to where they started: Alpuente.
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August 3rd, 2008 admin
The town’s history is dotted with the remnants of many civilisations that, just like the dinosaurs, have made their mark over the years. 140 million years ago, Alpuente was flat and swampy, and it was not inland but on the shore of a sea that no longer exists.
While Alpuente remote history — its prehistory — is very exciting, so too is its more recent history, which began with an Iberian settlement before undergoing Roman then Moorish rule and which retained its power throughout the Middle Ages. This endless history reaches modern times with remnants of all of these civilisations that, just like the dinosaurs, left their mark over the years.
Standing on a col between the mountains of San Cristóbal and El Castillo, Alpuente still boasts much olde worlde charm. Little stone streets, fine houses with shields and coats of arms, stately homes and a spectacular defensive wall line an urban trail brimming with contrasts between the recent past and ancient history, between history and legend, and even between science and nature.
Looming over Alpuente like an enormous watchtower stand the Roman and Moorish ruins of the castle, which reveal the glorious past of these lands whose history stretches back for millions of years. Visitors to the castle can discover wells, cisterns, warehouses and the magnificent Torre de la Veleta tower.
Very close to the castle stands the Our Lady of Mercy church, Nuestra Señora de la Piedad, with a single nave and an octagonal bell tower constructed between the 13th and 15th centuries. The former mosque, which is now the Town Hall, is a stone-built gem that stands just above the entranceway to the fortified town. Alpuente also still retains a mediaeval town structure with magnificent ancestral homes, aristocratic coats of arms, ancient ovens and ornate ironwork. A stroll may come to an end at the edge of town but the surprises just keep on coming, with the Los Arcos aqueduct near the hamlet of Las Eras.
This hydraulic construction of mediaeval origin was created to supply the population with water from the Nueva and Marimacho springs, and to irrigate the extraordinary terraced fields, which were so rare in mediaeval times.
Following the Roman occupation, Alpuente became part of Al-Andalus in the 8th century and remained so until 1031, when the caliphate of Córdoba crumbled and the town was declared an independent Kingdom of Taifas. During this time, culture flourished and the economy boomed, until the town was conquered by Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar “El Cid” in 1089.
A century later, following the conquest by Jaume I in 1236, Alpuente still retained its importance, as evidenced by the two meetings of the Courts of the Kingdom of Valencia (Las Cortes del Reino de Valencia) held here in 1319 and 1389.
Much, much earlier — millions of years earlier — Alpuente was very different to the town we see today. The land was flat and swampy, crisscrossed by rivers and streams, and it wasn‘t inland but was on the shore of a sea that no longer exists. It was here, in a perfect habitat among the marshes, that lived the largest animals to have ever roamed the Earth: The dinosaurs.
Colossal beasts such as sauropods, stegosauruses and allosaurus-type theropods walked the lands of Alpuente, leaving their mark in the way of countless fossilised footprints made by creature that man would never have set eyes upon but which palaeontologists and film-makers have often since reconstructed, much to the excitement of all.
The footprints at Corcolilla, the only Alpuente site open to the general public, belong to dinosaurs of various shapes and sizes, and were made as the creatures walked upon a soft substrate such as mud or sand, which was then filled in with a different sediment that covered and protected them. Showing three toes, the pads, the claws and the heel, these footprints have enabled study into the behaviour of the dinosaurs at Alpuente, their physical characteristics and the speed at which they moved from one place to another.
Dinosaurs used to uve in Alpuente, and their bones and footprints are proof of this. Palaeontologists have analysed the fossils and footprints found in minute detail, and the strength of the finds has led Alpuente to become a dream-cometrue in recent years for both scientists and aficionados alike. Few people fail to have their curiosity aroused by the dinosaurs, and in many cases whole families are eager to untangle the secret of just how these enormous and fascinating creatures used to live, 140 million years ago.
No fewer than half a dozen sites featuring footprints and a dozen of fossilised bone sites lie within the extensive lands of Alpuente, a territory whipped by winds and the passing of time but which still nevertheless bears the deep scars of Prehistory The lost world of the dinosaurs has been reconstructed through the valuable pieces displayed in a museum that houses an almost complete skeleton of a young dinosaur and countless bones plus fossils of marine creatures and plants, and a hall/workshop where naturally mummified remains are restored and the bones, teeth and claws of these giant beasts are on display. History is also brought back to life at the footprint sites, particularly that at Corcolilla, with over 100 footprints ranging in size between 12 and 54 cm, some made by small and large herbivorous dinosaurs and others, larger still, by carnivores, the most restless and swift of the “terrible lizards”
The dinosaurs at Alpuente date back to the Jurassic period, an age ruled by the great sauropods, which appeared in the Lower Jurassic period and reached their peak and maximum diversification in the Upper jurassic. It was during this time that birds first appeared, although there was still no grass and nor had flowering plants developed. This was also when Pangaea gradually began to separate, to eventually form the distribution of the continents we see today.
The perfect habitat and leisurely life of the dinosaurs came to an end when a meteorite measuring 10 km across slammed into the Earth on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, creating a crater over 200 km wide. This cataclysm took place 65 million years ago and completely wiped out the dinosaurs, paving the way for mammals to rule the planet and fostering the rise of human beings in Alpuente and around the world.
Farming and ranching activities, plus the transportation difficulties of days gone by, meant that numerous hamlets were formed in the Alpuente area, such as Almeza, Baldovar, Campo de Abajo, Campo de Arriba, La Canaleja, El Collado, Corcolilla, La Cuevarruz, Las Eras and El Hontanar, which are inhabited all year round. There are other hamlets such as La Torre and La Carrasca, which are holiday homes, and several more that are now deserted, like La Hortichuela, El Chopo, Berandía, Vizcota, Cañada Seca and Pozo Marín. A 45-km walking and cycling trail runs through all of Alpuente’s inhab ited hamlets, with a difficulty rating of medium to hard.
Marked by a white-and-red symbol with a dinosaur and a castle, the trail begins in Alpuente and then runs to Las Eras, a hamlet also known as La Aldea del Obispo Hernández (The Hamiet of Bishop Hernández), which is a little ovar 1 km away. Here visitors can enjoy spectacular views of Alpuente, La Hoz, La Loma de San Cristóbal, El Barranco del Reguero, the terraced gardens and the magnificent castle at Alpuente.
A 7-km route leads to La Cuevarruz, a hamlet comprising three neighbourhoods and which belongs to the neighbouring municipahity of La Yesa as well as Alpuente. The San José hermitage and an ancient windmill are two of its most emblematic buildings.
A little over 2 km further on is La Almeza, when visitors can explore a wood of centenary savines. Known as Las Trabinas de Cañadas Pastores and the only one of its kind in the whole of the Region of Valencia, this wood is one of the most beautiful natural locations in Alpuente. Then trail then continues on to Corcolilla, where there in archaeological site of prehistoric fossils. Nearby is one of the smallest hamlets, El Hontanar, whose San Cristóbal hermitage is a must-see.
Almost 5 km further along the trail is El Collado, a hamlet home to Alpuente’s second castle, the Castillo del Poyo, and the 19th century church of San Miguel Arcángel.
The longest stretch of the trail runs between El Collado and Baldovar another beautiful hamlet with a hermitage built in honour of San Roque. After Baldovar the trail heads for Campo de Arriba, the biggest of Alpuente’s hamlets, which boasts a fountain dedicated to Santa Bárbara. The water comes from the Fuente que Nace spring on the mountain, where visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the valley.
From Campo de Arriba to Campo de Abajo, the last of the hamlets to the south of Alpuente. Here visitors will find the San Isidro Labrador hermitage plus the La Hoz canyon, which is very close to the outskirts of the village, before closing the circular route on their return to where they started: Alpuente.
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