Gourmet Tour - Traditional Valencian Paella

Cruise across a freshwater lake in Albufera Natural Park and dine on traditional paella in a centuries-old farmhouse nearby. As you cruise across this largest lake in Spain, you will see an abundance of water birds and seemingly endless fields of rice, one of the key ingredients in paella. A once-humble dish, paella originated in the area in the 15th or 16th century and has become synonymous with Valencia. Traditional versions are made with rabbit, chicken, snails and a variety of vegetables such as butter beans and artichokes. Smoked paprika and saffron are commonly used as spices. One of the favorite parts is the socarrat, which is the caramelized crust that forms at the bottom of the paella pan as the rice simmers undisturbed in the broth. The version of paella that you will be served at the restaurant La Genuina – which appropriately means “The Genuine” – will be as authentic as it gets.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Dine on authentic paella, a once-humble dish that is synonymous with Valencia.
• Enjoy the ambiance of the 200-year-old farmhouse that is now La Genuina restaurant.
• See the area where paella originated as you cruise across a lake in Albufera Natural Park.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.