HOW DOES VÁLOR compare to other parts of Spain? Válor is completely different to the more traditional coastal destinations offering a taste of the real Spain. It can be a little like stepping back in time, some of the older farmers still plough with oxen, family is everything and crime unknown. It’ s not only a great place to holiday but a thriving all year round local community making it perfect for out of season holidays or over-wintering. What you won’ t find is full English breakfasts, Sunday roasts or international coffee and burger chains but I think the greatest recommendation for the area is the number of people who fall under its spell and return year after year or even buy their own slice of paradise here.
HOW DO THE locals react to holidaymakers in the area? As tourism is relatively low key the locals have a genuine interest in people visiting the area and are welcoming and generous. We are regularly asked about the guests staying at the various houses and have had numerous occasions where the locals have really gone out of their way to help out our visitors or have just been extremely generous with gifts of produce from their gardens or a free drink in the bar. If you have a few words of Spanish it’ s always greeted with a warm smile.
WHAT WOULD YOU recommend for people to do in Válor? Everybody should enjoy the tapas experience at least once on their holiday, you just can’ t beat chilling with a glass of wine and a tasty morsel taking in the view and watching the world go by! If you’ re lucky enough to be here mid-September there’ s the Fiesta of Moors & Christians which takes place over four days with parades, live music, dancing and, the highlight, a re-enactment of the battle for the Alhambra complete with muskets and horses charging round the village square. In December there’ s the expo in Ugijar showcasing all the local artisan products of the area, cheeses, honey, jamon, chorizo, chocolate and wine are all available for sampling and purchase. On a quieter note you can picnic next to the stream under the old roman bridge or at Cuesta Viñas where you can try the amazing naturally carbonated spring water. There are also numerous local walks, many of which enter the natural park adjoining the village. Feel free to help yourself to the figs, pomegranites, mulberries, asparagus and almonds which grow wild along the way or simply wallow in the scent of the wild rosemary.
BUT THE BEST thing about Válor is the pace of life, you just can’ t help slowing down and relaxing and after all, that’ s what holidays are all about!