Vegan Bike Tour Albufera/Little Venice w/ Paella & Horchata

If you’re visiting Valencia and want to combine outdoor activity with local flavor, this vegan bike tour hits the spot. Covering roughly 46 km along the coast, you’ll cycle past stunning beaches, charming canals, and lush natural parks, all while sampling some of Valencia’s best vegan-friendly bites and drinks. From riding along vibrant marinas to exploring the peaceful canals of Port Saplaya—often called Little Venice—this tour offers a well-rounded taste of the area’s scenery and culinary delights.

One thing we really love about this experience is how it’s designed for all levels, making it perfect whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a leisurely day out. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy authentic vegan paella in its true birthplace and sip on freshly made horchata from the local Alboraya fields really elevates this tour. That said, keep in mind that some sections involve cycling over bridges and bike paths—so it’s best suited for those comfortable on a bike.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy active days, appreciate authentic local food, and want a more intimate way to explore Valencia’s coastal and natural highlights. If you’re vegan or just curious about plant-based options in Spain, this experience strikes a nice balance between adventure, culture, and cuisine.

Key Points

• Scenic coastal cycling: Ride along Valencia’s main beaches and marina on dedicated bike paths.
• Cultural highlights: Explore the canals of Port Saplaya, known affectionately as Little Venice.
• Authentic tasting: Enjoy Horchata made from Tiger Nuts and vegan Paella in the rice’s birthplace near Albufera.
• Nature immersion: Cycle through Albufera Natural Park, experiencing protected forests and beaches.
• Small group intimacy: Limited to 9 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly vibe.
• Flexible options: Available as a standard bike tour or upgraded with e-bikes or e-scooters for easier riding.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Initial Ride

The adventure begins at the Bike Well Rental & Tours Shop, where you’ll collect your city bike, ready for a day of exploration. The first leg takes you north along Valencia’s marina and beaches like Malvarrosa and Patacona. These stretches are particularly scenic, with wide sandy beaches and vibrant promenade views, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the seaside atmosphere.

Port Saplaya: Little Venice’s Charm

After about an hour of cycling, you arrive at Port Saplaya, a spot that often feels like stepping into a postcard. With its pastel-colored homes, peaceful canals, and small boats bobbing gently, it has earned its nickname, “Little Venice.” Here, you’ll take a break to taste Horchata, a traditional drink crafted from Tiger Nuts cultivated nearby in Alboraya. As one reviewer mentioned, the horchata here is “delicious,” offering a sweet, nutty refreshment that’s both nutritional and culturally significant.

Exploring Albufera Natural Park

Next, you venture into Albufera Natural Park, a haven of rice paddies, protected forests, and quiet beaches. The park’s diverse scenery provides a stark contrast to the bustling city, and cycling through its peaceful paths allows you to appreciate the region’s commitment to conservation. According to reviews, the guide expertly navigates the routes, and the scenery “changes into less developed beaches and preserved nature,” giving you a fresh appreciation for Spain’s natural beauty.

Vegan Paella: The Highlight

For lunch, you’ll stop at a local restaurant to enjoy vegan paella, a dish that originated here in Valencia. It’s a chance to taste the region’s famous rice in a plant-based version, made with fresh ingredients sourced from nearby fields. One reviewer noted that the paella was a “hidden gem just by the Albufera,” highlighting that it’s not only delicious but also truly authentic.

Additional Highlights

After lunch, there’s an optional swim, allowing you to cool off in the sea before the tour wraps up. The final stop is the Bike Well shop, where you’ll enjoy a vegan ice cream or hot chocolate—a perfect way to end a day full of physical activity and flavor. Participants particularly appreciated the “delicious chocolate ice cream,” especially in warm weather.

Practical Details and Logistics

Duration and Distance

The entire experience lasts approximately 6.5 hours, covering around 46 km. Most of the route is flat, with only two bridges to cross, making it manageable even for casual cyclists. The itinerary is thoughtfully timed, with enough breaks to enjoy the scenery, food, and drinks.

Group Size and Guides

With a small group size of up to 9 people, the tour offers an intimate setting where guides can tailor the pace to suit everyone. The guides, like Chris—who has lived in Valencia for 14 years—are praised for their knowledgeable and friendly approach. One reviewer highlighted how Chris shared personal insights about his life in Spain and the local vegan scene, making the experience more engaging.

Price and Value

At $158 per person, this tour provides a lot of value. It includes bike rental, a live guide, horchata tasting, vegan paella, a drink, and a sweet treat at the end. Compared to other Valencia activities, this is quite reasonable, especially given the quality of food and the personalized experience. Upgrading to an e-bike or e-scooter costs an extra $30 but can make the ride even easier, particularly for those less accustomed to cycling longer distances.

What to Bring

Remember to pack comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and light clothes suitable for outdoor activities. If you want to swim, bring a swimsuit and towel. Helmets are mandatory, especially if you opt for an e-scooter or are under 16.

What We Loved and What to Consider

The highlights include the stunning coastal views, especially along the beaches, and the charming canals of Port Saplaya. The local horchata and vegan paella are genuine highlights—authentic, fresh, and lovingly prepared. The tour’s small group setting and knowledgeable guide make it feel personal and relaxed, allowing you to ask questions and learn about Valencia’s culture and environment.

A potential consideration is the cycling distance—though mostly flat, 46 km can be a lot for very casual cyclists or those with mobility limitations. The route involves crossing bridges and riding on bike paths, so some basic comfort with cycling is helpful. The tour’s timing and pace are flexible, but it’s worth noting that this is a full-day activity.

Reviewers praised the helpfulness of the guides and the stunning scenery, with one mentioning that the pace was “very fun and comfortable,” and another appreciating how the guide adapted to their needs. The taste of delicious vegan food and drinks was also a standout, especially the chocolate ice cream, which many found to be a perfect treat after a day of riding.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for active travelers who want a deeper, more authentic look at Valencia’s coast and cuisine. It suits vegans or those interested in plant-based eating, but anyone curious about local food culture will also find it rewarding. Because of its moderate distance and flat terrain, it’s suitable for families, couples, or solo explorers comfortable on a bike.

It’s an ideal choice for those who love scenic outdoor activities, enjoy culinary discovery, and want a small-group experience with expert guidance. If you’re looking for a fun, active day with plenty of opportunities to relax, indulge, and learn, this tour hits all those marks.

The Sum Up

This vegan bike tour offers a fantastic way to see Valencia’s coast, explore its natural parks, and indulge in authentic local flavors—all in a manageable, friendly format. The combination of scenic cycling, charming canals, and delicious vegan dishes makes for a memorable day that balances activity with culture. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual explorer, the well-paced itinerary and knowledgeable guides help ensure a smooth experience.

If you’re seeking a way to combine exercise, authentic culinary experiences, and scenic beauty, this tour is a smart pick. It’s especially well-suited for eco-conscious travelers, food lovers, and those wanting to discover the lesser-known side of Valencia beyond its famous city center. Just bring your sense of adventure and an appetite for vegan paella—you won’t be disappointed.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all levels of cyclists?
Yes, the route is mostly flat (99%), with only two bridges, making it accessible for most people. The tour can be adapted with e-bikes or e-scooters for an easier ride.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 6.5 hours, including sightseeing, tastings, and breaks.

What is included in the price?
Your price covers a city bike rental, a live English-speaking guide, horchata tasting, vegan paella with a drink, and vegan ice cream or hot chocolate at the end.

Can I upgrade my bike?
Yes, for an additional $30, you can upgrade to an e-bike or e-scooter, which can make the ride more comfortable.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and light clothing are recommended. If planning to swim, bring swimwear and a towel.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While suitable for most ages, children under 16 must wear helmets, and the route involves some cycling over bridges, so basic comfort on a bike is advised.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are mandatory and provided for all participants, including children.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at the Bike Well Rental & Tours Shop.

This vegan bike tour combines scenic beauty, cultural insights, and delicious food into one enjoyable package—an excellent way to experience Valencia’s coast authentically and actively.