Route of the Monumental Trees of Valencia
We suggest a unique and very eco-friendly way to visit Valencia. The plan is to tour various areas of the city by way of their most unusual trees. Trees whose size, shape, age, rarity, biological origin, beauty or presence in myths or traditions have led them to be classified and protected as monumental or unique trees. Look up and get ready for five trails that will take you round the world. Age-old specimens, fruits with healing powers and culinary uses ... you can’t imagine everything you will discover!
Five Tree Trails in Valencia
Trail: Witnesses to History
Grab a bike and get ready to discover a selection of unique trees around the city. Take advantage of the city’s cycling ring, a convenient way to learn about all sorts of curiosities as you roll through the historic district and explore the trees that have borne witness to Valencia's history. You've probably had a cup of linden flower tea, but do you know where it comes from? And did you know that they used to make brushes from the leaves of certain palm trees? Or that some rubber plants have grey bark rather than brown? Learn all this and much more on this first trail.
Trail: Around the World
A number of species from India, Mexico and Australia have found a home in Valencia. No need to pack a bag, now you can see the most exotic trees on the planet on an easy half-hour stroll through the Real Gardens (also known as Viveros Gardens). Don’t miss the medicinal ginkgo biloba, Indian bay leaf, palm trees with sweet dates and the curious kurrajong. Take advantage of the opportunity to explore the ruins of the former Royal Palace or the Natural Science Museum, located in the gardens.
Trail: A Journey through the Mediterranean
The journey continues, this time through the entire Mediterranean, discovering the oldest tree on all the trails: a 400-year-old olive. Stroll through Rambleta Park and check out the white mulberry, the favourite food of silkworms, and the sandarac, whose resin was used by the Egyptians in their embalming. Have a look at the cultural programming at La Rambleta and take advantage of your visit to stick around and enjoy one of the shows.
Trail: A Walk Along the Alameda
This trail starts in Zaragoza Square, running along the entire Paseo de La Alameda, and includes one of the city’s most undiscovered treasures: the Monforte Gardens. Along the way, you will pass numerous Australian banyans, which can grow up to 60 metres in height, as well as a couple of false peppers, whose fruits are small red balls that were once utilized as a substitute for pepper and now have a medicinal use. On this trail, you will also find California palms, holm oaks and jacarandas, which fill the city with purple flowers during flowering season.
Trail: Beyond the Seas. The Indianos
In the late 19th century, the American colonies on the other side of the Atlantic offered the opportunity of a new life for many Europeans, who became known in Spain as Indianos. Some returned to their native country, bringing back exotic species that have remained here, Valencia being no exception. This final trail takes us from Ayora Garden to the old shipyards near Valencia Marina. Along the way, you will discover the South American araucaria, California palms, and the ombú, Argentina’s national tree.