Bétera, with about 28,500 inhabitants, is a town in the Camp de Túria district, about 17 km north-west of Valencia. Surrounded by orange groves, pine woods and residential estates, it has long been a summer retreat and home for Valencian families who value its mild climate, greenery and closeness to the city.
History
Iberian remains and Roman villas have been found here. The present town grew as a Muslim settlement around its castle, and after the Christian conquest by James I in the 13th century it became a lordship. In the 19th and 20th centuries Valencia's middle classes built villas and summer homes here.
What to see
- The castle, of Arab origin, restored and used for cultural events.
- The Baroque parish church of the Purísima Concepción, with its bell tower.
- The old town, with traditional houses and small squares.
- The historic villas and masías, the farmhouses of the countryside.
- The paths towards the Serra Calderona, a natural park rich in pine woods.
Sport and leisure
Bétera is known for its golf courses, such as El Escorpión, one of the oldest in the region, and its equestrian centres. Cycle paths and trails through fields and hills attract many cyclists and hikers.
Festivals and food
The patron saint festivities are in September, with processions, music, bous al carrer and fireworks. The Fallas are celebrated in March. Food: Valencian paella, arròs al forn, coca de llanda and local oranges.
Getting there
Bétera is linked to central Valencia by Metrovalencia line 1, in about 40 minutes, and by fast roads. Valencia airport is about 20 km away.