Chulilla & Chelva, Spain: The Perfect Day Trip Itinerary
If you’re looking for a one-day escape from Valencia that combines hiking trails, mountain villages, and an authentic atmosphere from Spain, then Chulilla and Chelva might be just the perfect route for you.
These two destinations are like opposites that perfectly complement each other. Chulilla lures with its canyons and hanging bridges, while Chelva invites you to slow down and wander through its narrow streets.
In this guide, I’ll share a simple yet tip-filled itinerary to help you make the most of your day.
1-Day Chulilla & Chelva Itinerary – Overview
First Glimpse Of The Canyon Town
It’s best to arrive in Chulilla in the morning – there are still few visitors at that time, the weather is cooler, and finding a parking spot is much easier.
I recommend using the official parking lot Ruta de los Puentes Colgantes, located in the southern part of town, right by the CV-394 road. From there, it’s about a 5-minute walk to the start of the trail.
Keep in mind that later in the day, the road leading into town near the trail entrance tends to get congested, and parking spots fill up quickly – so the earlier you arrive, the smoother your start will be.
Walking The Trail Between The Cliffs
This is one of the most popular trails in the Valencia region – an 8 km route winding through a canyon carved by the Turia River. Shortly after the start, the path descends along a gravel road, offering impressive views of the limestone cliffs.
After about 20 minutes, you’ll reach the first hanging bridge – it sways a little, but it’s sturdy. The second bridge is deeper within the gorge, set in an even more dramatic landscape.
Beyond the bridges, the trail continues – at times narrower, with small inclines, but without any serious technical difficulties. Since this is not a circular route, you’ll return along the same path. The full hike takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on your pace and breaks.
It’s suitable for most visitors – including beginners and families. Don’t forget comfortable shoes, water, snacks, and sun protection – there’s almost no shade along the way.
Good To Know: Entry to the trail costs €1 per adult and is paid on-site at the entrance.
After The Hike: Eat & Explore
After the hike, you’ll probably be hungry, so I recommend stopping by Restaurante Hoces del Turia or La Cañadeta. Most local restaurants start serving around 1:00 PM, but some places open earlier on weekends. Keep in mind that things move slowly here – so you might need a bit of patience when waiting for your meal.
If you want to try something authentic and traditional, order gazpacho manchego – a hearty stew with meat and flatbread. If you’re in the mood for a lighter bite, toast with cured ham, olives, and a cold beer is always a great choice.
After lunch, take some time to explore Chulilla itself. Wander through its whitewashed alleyways, climb up to the remains of the medieval castle, or walk to one of the nearby viewpoints overlooking the canyon. It’s a good way to stretch your legs after the meal and see a quieter, more historical side of the village.
Chelva: A Town Of Many Faiths
After a full and active first part of the day, make your way to Chelva’s old town, located just 20 km from Chulilla. At first glance, Chelva may seem small – but for centuries, it was home to Jews, Muslims, and Christians living side by side.
Start exploring at Plaza Mayor, the town’s main square, surrounded by colorful buildings that give it a distinct charm. In the center stands the beautiful Our Lady of the Angels church with its historic clock tower.
The church was begun in the 16th century, built on the site of a former mosque – a fact that adds to its historical importance. What draws the most attention is the church’s striking facade, and its clock tower can be spotted from various points around the town. Interestingly, the clock is still functioning, displaying not only the time but also the day and month—a testament to its intricate historical design.
Inside, you’ll find ornate Baroque decoration that still impresses after centuries. The high vaulted ceilings, intricate altarpieces, and golden details reflect the church’s former prominence and artistic heritage.
Pena Cortada: A Walk Above The Gorge
If you still have time and energy, it’s worth taking a short drive from Chelva to one of the most impressive examples of ancient engineering in the Valencia region – the Pena Cortada aqueduct. If you enjoy hiking, you can reach it on foot from the center of Chelva – it’s only about 3 km.
If you’re driving, head toward the village of Calles (around 15 minutes away), then follow the signs for Acueducto Peña Cortada. The road is narrow, and in some places rocky and uneven, so drive carefully.
You can park in the designated lot, from where it’s a 10–15 minutes walk to the aqueduct. Due to the extremely bumpy road, we decided to leave the car before the official parking area and walked the last 30–35 minutes on foot.
From the official parking area, a narrow hiking path leads to the aqueduct, surprising you with its natural beauty. Along the way, you’ll see stunning views of massive sunlit cliffs and steep drop-offs in the valley below, until finally the aqueduct rises above the landscape. The experience is truly memorable – not only because of the height, but also because you can actually walk along the top of the aqueduct.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes, bring water and sun protection. If you’re going to walk through the tunnels, a flashlight (your phone light will do) is very useful.
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How To Get From Valencia To Chulilla & Chelva
There are two main ways to reach these villages – by car or by public transport. Public transport is technically possible, but limited and inconvenient, especially for a one-day trip. Driving is by far the most flexible option.
By Car
From Valencia city center to Chulilla is about 65 km. Take the A-3 highway toward Madrid, then turn onto the CV-394. The route is fairly straightforward, but the final kilometers are narrower and winding. There are very few signs along the way, so it’s a good idea to enter the route into your map app in advance.
From Chulilla to Chelva, it’s about a 25-minute drive. The road between the two towns is scenic, but steep and curvy in places, so it’s best to take it slow. In Chelva, it’s easiest to park just outside the center – the old town is very narrow.
By Public Transport
There is no direct train to either Chulilla or Chelva, two small towns in eastern Spain. A regional bus service operated by Hispano Chelvana connects Valencia to Chelva, with two daily departures from the city’s central bus station. The journey takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, and the ticket costs around €16.
Chulilla, however, is not served directly by any regional buses. The closest you can get is Losa del Obispo, from where you would need to take a taxi or walk several kilometers to reach Chulilla.
Chelva is somewhat more accessible by bus, but without a car, visiting both towns in one day is extremely difficult.
Tip: If you’re planning just a day trip, a car is almost essential. The route is simple, and having your own transport lets you stop wherever you like and visit both villages in one go.
Also, make sure to download your maps in advance, as mobile reception may be unreliable in some areas.
By Tour
If you want to visit these places without the hassle, joining an organized tour is a good way to see the area without worrying about transport or planning. On weekends, local tour operators in Valencia offer day trips to either Chulilla or Chelva, but each tour focuses on just one destination.
The price usually includes transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, a local hiking guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Most tours are available in Spanish and English, with prices ranging from €65 to €90 per person depending on what’s included.
Discover: From Valencia: Chulilla Hanging Bridges or Pena Cortada Aqueduct Tour.
FAQ: Day Trip To Chulilla & Chelva, Spain
Where are Chulilla and Chelva?
Chulilla and Chelva are historic villages in Spain’s Valencia region, located about 1 to 1.5 hours by car from the city center.
How much time should I set aside for this day trip?
It took me 10 hours in total – including the drive from Valencia, both hikes, lunch, and time to explore each village without rushing. If you want to do the same without skipping anything, plan your time in advance.
Are these routes suitable for kids or beginners?
Yes, as long as you’re wearing comfortable footwear and take care on the trail. Both the Hanging Bridges and Peña Cortada are non-technical routes, but some sections are narrow, steep, or elevated. Smaller children should be supervised closely, and it’s best to assess whether your kids are comfortable with heights and uneven terrain.
When is the best time to visit Chulilla and Chelva?
Spring and autumn are ideal – the weather is mild and the landscape is green. Summer can be very hot, while winter is less lush but still beautiful.
Is there an entrance fee for the Hanging Bridges trail in Chulilla?
Yes, currently there’s a €1 fee per person to access the Hanging Bridges trail. It’s collected at the trailhead and must be paid in cash.
What else is worth seeing in Chelva?
Chelva is known for its ancient architecture and cultural mix – you can explore Christian, Muslim, and Jewish quarters. If you have more time, consider walking the Ruta del Agua, a riverside hiking route featuring tunnels, waterfalls, and natural pools.
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Visited Chulilla or Chelva in Spain? Tell me your favorite spot or memory in the comments!
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Evelina
Hi, I’m Evelina, a travel enthusiast who loves nature, peace, and authentic places. I cherish the freedom to explore and learn with each adventure, whether it’s hiking trails, stunning beaches, natural parks, unique architecture, or rich cultural heritage. I hope my experiences inspire you to embark on your own journeys!
