Gandía

The palace of the Dukes of Gandia, home of the Borgia family, blends Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles around spectacular gilded halls. Dogs are not admitted inside, but the facade and the lanes of the old town make a fine on-lead stroll.

North of Playa de Gandia, this semi-wild dune-backed beach hosts the city's official dog zone, where dogs can swim. It is one of the few beach areas in the region where dogs are allowed in summer.

The grand promenade of Playa de Gandia runs along the sand for several kilometres, lined with palms and terraces. Perfect for an on-lead walk morning and evening, when the heat eases and terraces happily welcome dogs.

The ruins of this castle of Moorish origin overlook the bay of Gandia from a hill between town and beach. The short but steep access trail rewards you with a fine panorama over the Mediterranean and the huerta, on lead and with water for your dog.

This greenway follows the old Gandia to Alcoi railway line along the gorges of the Serpis river, through tunnels and orange groves. A flat, partly shaded route, ideal for a long car-free walk with a dog.

Gandia's Gothic collegiate church, raised to basilica status, was embellished by the Borgias and remains the monumental heart of the old town. Dogs stay outside, but the adjoining square and nearby market make the walk worthwhile.