Hidden among the hills of La Safor, just a short drive from Gandia, Ròtova (also written as Rotova) is one of Valencia’s most charming inland villages. Rich in history, surrounded by beautiful countryside and home to one of the region’s most colourful Moros i Cristians festivals, Ròtova offers visitors the chance to discover an authentic side of Spain away from the busy coastal resorts.
Whether you’re interested in hiking, archaeology, local history or traditional Valencian fiestas, Ròtova is an excellent destination for a day trip from Gandia, Oliva or the Costa Blanca.
Where is Ròtova?
Ròtova is located in the La Safor comarca of Valencia Province, in the picturesque Vall de Vernissa.
Distances:
- Gandia – 10 km
- Oliva – 18 km
- Xàtiva – 45 km
- Valencia City – 80 km
- Alicante – 105 km
Its location makes it an ideal stop when exploring both the coast and the mountains of inland Valencia.
A Village with Over 2,000 Years of History
Although small today, Ròtova has an extraordinary history.
Archaeological discoveries show that people lived in the area during prehistoric times, while Iberian settlements later occupied the surrounding hills. During Roman rule, an important settlement was established nearby at La Sort de Ròtova, now understood to have been a Roman mansio (roadside inn) serving travellers on the route between Dianium (Dénia) and Saetabis (Xàtiva). Recent archaeological excavations continue to reveal new information about the site.
Following the Roman period, Ròtova became an important Islamic alquería, strategically positioned on the route between the coast and inland Valencia. In fact, many historians believe the name Ròtova derives from the Arabic word rutba, referring to a toll or customs point where travellers paid to pass through the valley.
After the Christian conquest by King James I in the 13th century, the village gradually evolved into the settlement seen today.
Things to See in Ròtova
Despite its size, Ròtova has several interesting attractions.
Palau dels Comtes de Ròtova
The town’s most impressive historic building is the Palau dels Comtes, one of the finest manor houses in La Safor.
Recent restoration work has revealed that parts of the building are actually around 200 years older than previously believed, dating back to the late 14th century rather than the 16th century. Its medieval core makes it one of the most important historic buildings in the area.
Church of Sant Bartomeu
Built during the 18th century in Valencian Neoclassical style, the parish church stands in the centre of the village and remains the focal point of many local celebrations.
Castell de Borró
High above the village lie the remains of the Castell de Borró, an Islamic fortress that once protected the Vall de Vernissa.
Although now in ruins, the castle offers magnificent views across La Safor. Plans are currently being developed to preserve and restore the site for future generations.
Monastery Aqueduct
Another unique feature is the 16th-century Gothic-Mudéjar aqueduct, built to carry water to the nearby Monastery of Sant Jeroni de Cotalba.
Walking and Nature
Ròtova is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding countryside.
Popular walking routes include:
- PR-CV 100
- Penya Roja
- Barranc Blanc
- Les Galeries
- Llibrell Ravine
- Natural springs and viewpoints around the Vall de Vernissa
The peaceful landscape of mountains, orange groves and pine forests makes the area especially popular with walkers and photographers.
Festivals in Ròtova
The village is well known for two major annual celebrations.
Moros i Cristians
Held each August, the Moros i Cristians festival is one of the highlights of the local calendar.
The streets fill with colourful comparses, marching bands, spectacular costumes, dance groups and themed floats as the village recreates one of the Valencian Community’s most famous traditions.
Porrat de Sant Macià
Every February, Ròtova hosts its famous Porrat de Sant Macià, declared a tourist festival by the Generalitat Valenciana.
The event combines a traditional market, local gastronomy, historical activities, artisan stalls and cultural performances, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
Local Food
While visiting, look out for some of Ròtova’s traditional specialities:
- Coques de dacsa
- Pastissets d’aire
- Almond and sweet potato pastries
- Fresh bread from the village’s traditional wood-fired bakeries
These local recipes have been enjoyed for generations and remain an important part of village life.
Why Visit Ròtova?
Ròtova is one of those places that many tourists drive past without realising what they’re missing.
Its combination of medieval history, archaeological sites, walking routes, traditional festivals and peaceful rural setting makes it one of the hidden gems of inland Valencia.
Whether you’re exploring the Moros i Cristians, hiking through the Vall de Vernissa, discovering the Palau dels Comtes or simply enjoying a coffee in the village square, Ròtova offers a genuine taste of traditional Valencian life.
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