If you’ve been following my adventures around Spain, you’ll know I’ve got a proper soft spot for places that manage to dodge the tourist trap label whilst still offering everything you’d want from a Mediterranean coastal town. Cullera, tucked away on the Valencian coast between Valencia city and Gandia, is exactly that sort of place. And if you’re wondering about the wildlife – yes, you can spot aguilas (eagles) in Cullera, particularly around the Albufera Natural Park and the mountainous areas surrounding the town.
For years, I had a bit of an aversion to Valencian beach towns. They were always too seasonal – absolutely rammed in summer and ghostly quiet come October. But Cullera? It’s bucking that trend in a big way, and I’m here for it.
What Makes Cullera Different From Other Valencia Coast Towns?
The thing about Cullera is that it’s managed to extend its appeal well beyond the traditional summer months. Last October, I was down there for some dragon boat racing at the rowing club (yes, that’s a thing), and the place was buzzing. There was a short film festival running, the beach was busy, and the promenade cafés were doing a roaring trade.
This isn’t your typical Spanish seaside resort that shuts down after the summer holidays. The town has genuinely embraced year-round tourism, putting on events throughout the seasons. With summers getting longer and winters staying milder, places like Cullera are getting a proper second life outside those scorching July and August months.
The town sits beautifully between the sea and the Muntanya de l’Or (Gold Mountain), with the River Júcar creating a natural estuary that’s become a haven for wildlife. It’s this combination of beach, mountain, and wetland that makes Cullera special – and where you’re most likely to spot those aguilas soaring overhead.
Getting to Cullera: Your Transport Options
How easy is it to get to Cullera from Valencia?
Brilliant question, and the answer is: very easy indeed. You’ve got three main options, and they’re all decent. The train takes 41 minutes station to station from Valencia city centre, running regularly throughout the day. If you’re driving, it’s just over half an hour via the scenic Albufera route (my personal preference – much nicer than the motorway past the Ford factory), or roughly the same time down the A7 from the airport.
There’s also an Alsa bus service that takes 45 minutes from Valencia’s central station. Honestly, the train’s your best bet for convenience and cost.
What’s the parking situation like in and around Cullera?
The parking situation is actually quite manageable compared to other coastal towns. The old town has several car parks, and during off-peak seasons, street parking isn’t too much of a nightmare. Summer’s a different story – you’ll want to arrive early or use the park-and-ride facilities they’ve set up.
The headland area has limited parking, but there are designated spots near the lighthouse. If you’re staying in the beach area, most hotels and many apartment complexes have their own parking, which is a godsend.
Cullera’s Beaches: Eight Blue Flag Winners
Which beach should you head to first in Cullera?
Start with Playa de San Antonio – it’s the main beach and has held Blue Flag status for 37 years running. That’s not just a pretty certificate; it means consistently clean waters, excellent facilities, and safe swimming conditions.
But here’s the thing – Cullera has eight Blue Flag beaches, each with its own character. Faro beach is your best bet for diving and fishing, whilst San Antonio sits right next to the promenade for easy access to cafés and shops. If you’re feeling adventurous, Marenyet is the designated nudist beach (just so you know what you’re walking into).
The beaches here are brilliant for families – shallow sandy slopes, no nasty riptides, and clean waters that are perfect for a paddle or a proper swim.
The Old Town and Castle: Cullera’s Historic Heart
What are the must-see historical sights in Cullera?
Right, let’s start at the top – literally. Cullera Castle dominates the skyline from its perch on the mountaintop. This 10th-century fortress isn’t just a pretty facade; it houses the Municipal History and Archaeology Museum and hosts cultural events throughout the year.
The castle complex includes several towers still standing today – Torre de la Reina Mora, Torre Miranda, Torre del Racó de San Antonio, Torre Desmochada, and Torre Octogonal. Each one’s worth a visit, and the views from up there are absolutely spectacular.
Next to the castle, you’ll find the Mare Deu del Castillo Sanctuary (also called La Virgen de la Encarnación Sanctuary) – a beautiful 19th-century place of worship that’s worth taking your time to explore.
How accessible is Cullera for people with limited mobility?
The beachfront and promenade are excellent for wheelchair users and those with mobility issues – flat, well-maintained paths with good access to facilities. The old town has some accessibility features, though the historic nature means not every street is perfect.
The castle and mountain areas are challenging – lots of steps and steep paths. However, you can drive most of the way up to the castle, and there are accessible viewing points that don’t require the full mountain climb.
Wildlife and Nature: Where to Spot the Aguilas
Where are the best spots for wildlife watching in Cullera?
The Albufera Natural Park is your best bet for spotting aguilas in Cullera and other wildlife. This massive wetland is one of Europe’s most important bird habitats, with four distinct ecosystems providing homes for everything from eagles to flamingos.
The park offers several walking and cycling routes that take you to the best observation points. Early morning and late afternoon are your best times for bird watching – that’s when the aguilas are most active.
El Estany Lake and Bassa de Sant Llorenç are also excellent birding spots, with hides and viewing platforms that won’t scare off the wildlife.
Food and Drink: Cullera’s Culinary Scene
The food scene in Cullera is proper Mediterranean – fresh seafood, excellent rice dishes, and local wines that don’t break the bank. You’ll find everything from traditional paella (meat, seafood, or mixed) to arroz a banda (cooked in fish broth) and arroz negro (with squid ink).
The fish market is worth a visit, and the restaurants around the old town and marina serve up brilliant local specialities. Don’t miss trying the local Valencia DO wines or a glass of horchata – that tiger nut drink that’s become a Valencia trademark.
Activities and Attractions Beyond the Beach
What’s worth doing in Cullera besides sunbathing?
Loads, actually. The rowing club hosts dragon boat racing regularly, and there’s a thriving watersports scene – jet skiing, paddleboarding, kiteboarding, and sailing are all well catered for.
Aquópolis water park is a short walk from the railway station and continues to draw families year after year. The Cave of the Pirate Dragut offers a bit of historical intrigue, whilst the modernist market (built between 1896-1900) has underground Civil War bomb shelters that you can explore.
Where are the best viewpoints for photos in Cullera?
The castle provides the most spectacular panoramic views – you can see the entire bay, the coastline stretching towards Valencia, and the Albufera wetlands. The lighthouse at the end of the headland offers dramatic coastal shots, whilst the headland itself provides elevated views over the town and beaches.
For a different perspective, the Sanctuary next to the castle gives you excellent shots of the old town and surrounding countryside.