Spring brings some of the most spectacular festivals, with the Fallas of Valencia leading the way: fleeting art, gunpowder, fire and a unique atmosphere. Experiencing them by motorhome lets you enjoy them fully and rest close by, without fighting over scarce, pricey accommodation. That said, it calls for planning and knowing the access rules. Here is the guide.
The Fallas of Valencia
An Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the Fallas (around 19 March) fill Valencia with cardboard monuments, mascletàs (midday gunpowder displays), music and fire, culminating in the Cremà (the burning of the fallas). It's intense, loud and spectacular. The city gets packed and traffic gets complicated, so having a camper strategy matters.
The strategy: base on the outskirts
Don't try to take the motorhome into the centre of Valencia during Fallas: there are closures, restrictions and traffic chaos. Leave the camper at a site or campsite on the outskirts or in the metropolitan area, and head into the festivities by public transport (see the camper in the city). Book well ahead: spots sell out fast.
Other great spring festivals
- Seville's April Fair and the May crosses.
- The San Juan bonfires of Alicante (June).
- Local festivals and pilgrimages across the whole country.
Practical tips
- Book well in advance; accommodation sells out.
- Base on the outskirts and take transport into the centre.
- Protect your ears during the mascletàs (very loud) and watch out for children and pets (fireworks affect them too).
- Enjoy it with respect and take care of the places.
In summary
The Fallas and other spring festivals are best enjoyed by camper if you use the outskirts as a base and take transport in, avoiding the chaos of the centre. The step you can take today: book a site on the outskirts of Valencia (or of whichever city is celebrating) well in advance, head into the atmosphere by public transport, and protect ears and pets from the fireworks; you'll enjoy the festival and rest nearby. Combine it with the Valencian Community.