Morning in Granada, off for the long trip to Valencia. Got some beautiful views of the Sierra Madre Mountains behind lovely white washed homes surrounded by olive groves. Awesome!
Made our way over the mountains through beautiful country to an area where there are cave houses, and even cave communities. These homes even have electricity and plumbing.
Derek surprised us with an unscheduled stop in the small town of Purwiena. This community contains over a thousand cave houses. We went to a cave house and museum owned by Paco and his family. Paco explained to us how the caves become habitable by applying clay, and then whitewashed or plastered. These small homes are quite pleasant with windows in the front facade for light, and due to the nature of the cave, comfortable temperatures in the summer and winter with just a little heat. Chimneys lent both the heating, and aid in fresh air circulation.
Not only was this a home, but continuing up several levels, was Paco’s display of antiques that he has collected over the years. Fantastic!
After exiting the “museum “ to some terraces, we were treated to spectacular views. After which made our way to the lovely shop downstairs filled with pretty local ceramics. Purchased a few and back on the bus to continue to Valencia.
Continued through this desert type countryside, moving towards the Mediterranean Sea. Stopped at the town of Catalante. This is a vacation town for Spaniards and European located on the sea. Had enough time for lunch by the ocean, followed by time for a quick walk along the beach, and dip our feet into the Mediterranean .Lovely!
After traveling by acres of orange trees we made it to Valencia. Unfortunately ran into our first rain of the tour, fortunately dinner was in the hotel tonight!
So it is off to bed, tomorrow brings a city tour, and our paella cooking class.