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Ironman 70.3 Valencia is only a few months away so your training regime should be well underway! Remember the five “Ps” in life – proper planning prevents poor performance. No saying could be more true when it comes to an Ironman event!
The vibrant Spanish city of Valencia will play host to one of the stops of the Ironman Europe calendar and will take place on the 21st of April 2024. But If you can’t run this year’s scheduled race, add it to your 2025 sports calendar.
Valencia has been referred to as “the city of the 100 bell towers” thanks to its impressive array of Baroque architecture. I’m sure it will be a race experience like no other.
The city also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, incredible festivals, and of course, mouth-watering food!
Did someone say Paella? But let’s not get carried away and forget why we’re here – to compete in a grueling triathlon and make it to the finish line in one piece.
Valencia Weather
The weather during April for this Ironman, Spain edition is often considered perfect by many, with little rain and average day temperatures of 68° F/20 °C.
The average water temperatures also hover in the region of 63 °F/17 °C – bliss! Let’s hope the weather forecast is right, so it’ll be a perfect race week.
Ironman 70.3 Valencia Course
Right, let’s talk about the Ironman 70.3 Valencia course, starting with the swim.
Ironman Valencia swim course
The ROKA Swim Course takes athletes through the Marina de Valencia and consists of a single 1.9km/1.2-mile loop in sheltered waters of excellent quality. I believe it will be an enjoyable swim.
Ironman Valencia bike course
It’s then onto the FulGaz Bike Course, which is a 90 km/56-mile single loop with 700m/0.4-mile elevation gain.
It comprises a mix of challenging terrains and flat stretches, rolling sections as it leaves Marina de Valencia towards Sierra Calderona and back to Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias.
Ironman Valencia run course
Finally, competitors tackle the ROKA Run course – a 21.1 km/3.1-mile two-lap course that starts at Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias and proceeds along the Túria River path.
Right, that’s it for the course and some general information, next up is the best places to stay in Valencia.
When it comes to accommodation for the triathlon, Valencia is loaded with options but not all accommodation is created equal. Let’s take a look at some of the considerations when looking for the best hotels in Valencia.
Things to Consider When Choosing Your Hotel for an Ironman Competition
Now, choosing the best hotel in Valencia might seem like an easy task, but there are some things to consider before you commit to accommodation – you’ll thank me later.
- Location, location, location! This is one of the most important considerations when booking a hotel in Valencia. Find a place that’s close to the race location, even better if it’s near the start and finish lines!
- Next up, your budget. Are you going low, mid, or high-end? How much are you willing to spend?
- Is it bike-friendly? Don’t just assume that you can bring your bike along. Find out beforehand if your iron horse is welcome (well, carbon horse).
- Is there a sauna and/or steam room? These are welcome treats after a tough day out.
- What is the cancellation policy? Things can, and do, change.
- Read reviews of the place before booking
- Is there a restaurant on-site? Are meals included?
- What sights are close by for off-day sightseeing?
The Best Hotels for Ironman 70.3 Valencia
Now, the big question on everyone’s lips is where to stay in Valencia for the Ironman event.
When it comes to accommodation for the Ironman 70.3 Valencia, not only does it have to have great reviews, but it also has to be conveniently located at both the start and finish lines.
For this article, we have selected the best hotels in Valencia for your comfort and peace of mind during your stay.
Just a heads up, Ironman Valencia 2024 is already sold out, so chances are the hotels will be fully booked soon. Hurry up, check out the event schedule, and book your hotel in Valencia ASAP.
That being said, here are some of the best places to stay in Valencia for athletes and supporters of the Ironman event.
Ilunion Aqua 4
- Address: Luis García Berlanga, 19, Camins al Grau, 46001 Valencia, Spain
- Distance to the start: 23-minute walk (1.7km/1.05 mile) or 7-minute cycle (1.8km/1.1 mile)
- Distance to the finish line: 9-minute walk (650m/0.40 mile) or 2-minute cycle (650m/0.40 mile)
Kicking things off for the best hotels for Ironman 70.3 Valencia is Ilunion Aqua 4, located a short commute from the Valencia Marina where the event begins.
Now the commute may seem off-putting for mere mortals but for an Ironman Europe athlete, it’s a mere trot.
The hotel boasts a review of 8.1/10 from more than 8,300 reviews so you know it’s good – the people have spoken! The hotel has on-site parking, air-conditioning in the rooms (trust me, it’s welcome), and a restaurant that serves delicious breakfasts and a la carte and set-menu lunches and dinners. Done and dusted!
AC Hotel Valencia by Marriott
- Address: Avenida de Francia, 67, Camins al Grau, 46023 Valencia, Spain
- Distance to the start: 17-minute walk (1.2km/0.75 mile) or 5-minute cycle (1.3km/0.81 mile)
- Distance to the finish line: 12-minute walk (900m/0.56 mile) or 3-minute cycle (900m/0.56 mile)
Next up for places to stay in Valencia is the AC Hotel Valencia by Marriott, a trusted name in the hotel business throughout the world.
The hotel boasts an 8.4/10 rating from more than 2,000 guests and is conveniently located, not only to the start line but also to some of Valencia’s sights such as the City of Arts and Sciences.
The hotel also has an on-site restaurant serving fresh Mediterranean cuisine, a fitness center for all those pre-event needs, and a beautifully modern feel throughout. Thank me later!
Blanq Marina Suites
- Address: 13 Calle Maderas, Camins al Grau, 46022 Valencia, Spain
- Distance to the start: 14-minute walk (1km/0.7 mile) or 4-minute cycle (1km/0.7 mile)
- Distance to the finish line: 23-minute walk (1.7km/1.05 mile) or 6-minute cycle (1.7km/1.05 mile)
So, you’ve heard of an apartment, and you’ve heard of a hotel, but what happens when you combine the two? You get an aparthotel, of course, and that’s exactly what Blanq Marina Suites is.
The aparthotel has an overall guest review rating of 8.7/10 thanks to its modern look and feel, as well as its proximity to some of the city’s top sights. Think Puerto Valencia, Turia Gardens, L’Oceanografic, and Malvarrosa Beach.
Pamphylia Hotel
- Address: Passeig de Neptú 40, Poblats Maritims, 46011 Valencia, Spain
- Distance to the start: 14-minute walk (1.1km/0.68 mile) or 4-minute cycle (1.3km/0.81 mile)
- Distance to the finish line: 42-minute walk (3km/1.86 mile) or 11-minute cycle (3km/1.86 mile)
The Pamphylia Hotel is arguably located in the best area to stay in Valencia for competitors who love the sea – it’s close to the Marina and swim start line but it’s also right next to the sandy beach.
The hotel has a near-perfect guest rating of 9/10 and it’s easy to see why- who doesn’t love accommodation right on the beachfront?
Other amenities at the hotel include a superb breakfast included in the room rate, full air-conditioning, and a desk to catch up on those work emails while on-the-go. Everything you need for your stay during the Ironman 70.3 Valencia.
Hotel Valencia Center
- Address: Avenida de Francia, 33, Camins al Grau, 46023 Valencia, Spain
- Distance to the start: 24-minute walk (1.7km/1.2 mile) or 7-minute cycle (1.9km/1.18 mile)
- Distance to the finish line: 9-minute walk (650m/0.40 mile) or 3-minute cycle (1 km/0.62 mile)
Right, if you’re still trying to decide where to stay in Valencia, then I have one last option for you – the Hotel Valencia Center. With an outdoor swimming pool, sauna, fitness center, and restaurant, it’s easy to see why more than 7,000 guests have contributed to its overall rating of 8.1/10.
There’s also a bar, room service, Wi-Fi, and air-conditioning in all rooms to make your stay during this leg of Ironman Europe that much more enjoyable – and comfortable.
Now let’s talk about practical travel advice so you can get to your Ironman 70.3 Valencia safe and sound.
How to get to Valencia, Spain
It’s easy to travel to Valencia, the city is well served by flights, trains & bus routes.
Getting to Valencia by flight:
Valencia has its international airport, Aeropuerto de Valencia (VLC), which is well-connected to major European cities.
You can find direct flights from various destinations. The airport is located about 8 kilometers west of the city center. You can check for the best flight options on Skyscanner.
Getting to Valencia by car:
From Barcelona: Valencia is approximately a 3.5-hour drive from Barcelona via the AP-7 highway.
From Madrid: The journey from Madrid to Valencia by car takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on the route taken (via the A-3 or A-7 highways).
From Alicante: If you’re coming from Alicante, it’s about a 2-hour drive on the A-7 highway.
Getting to Valencia by train:
The AVE train is a high-speed train service that connects Valencia with other major cities in Spain. The journey from Madrid to Valencia by AVE takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, offering a quick and comfortable option.
There are also regional trains connecting Valencia with nearby towns and cities, providing a more economical but slower travel option.
Things to do in Valencia after your Ironman 70.3 Spain
Valencia is a vibrant city with a rich history and a mix of modern and traditional attractions. It’s a popular destination in Spain, we loved it, and can’t wait to go back.
Here’s a list of the top 10 attractions in Valencia:
- City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias): An iconic complex featuring futuristic architecture, including the Hemisférico, Science Museum, and Oceanografic, it’s a must-visit for its cultural and scientific offerings. Insider tip: You can book a guided tour followed by a rooftop wine & tapas dinner, it’s a unique experience.
- La Lonja de la Seda (The Silk Exchange): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this medieval mercantile exchange showcases Valencian Gothic architecture and is an impressive example of the city’s trading history.
- Valencia Cathedral (Catedral de Valencia): Home to the Holy Grail, according to the Catholic tradition, this cathedral is a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles, and its bell tower, known as El Miguelete, offers iconic city views. Check out this tour that combines a guided visit to the Cathedral and La Lonja de la Seda.
- Central Market (Mercado Central): One of the largest indoor markets in Europe, the Mercado Central is a food lover’s paradise, with stalls selling fresh produce, meats, seafood, and local delicacies.
- Turia Gardens (Jardines del Turia): Once a riverbed, now transformed into a lush green urban park, offering a peaceful escape with walking and cycling paths, playgrounds, and various gardens.
- Plaza de la Reina: A central square surrounded by historic buildings, including the Valencia Cathedral and the Basilica of the Virgin, it’s a lively place with shops, cafes, and a vibrant atmosphere.
- Bioparc Valencia: A unique zoo that recreates natural habitats for animals, providing an immersive and educational experience. It’s known for its focus on conservation and animal welfare.
- Torres de Serranos: These medieval towers are part of the old city walls and offer panoramic views of Valencia. They are well-preserved and provide insight into the city’s defensive history.
- L’Oceanografic: Located within the City of Arts and Sciences, this is the largest aquarium in Europe, featuring a diverse range of marine life and impressive underwater tunnels. Save time and book your tickets in advance.
- Mercado de Colon: A beautiful modernist market building with a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a great place to explore, shop, and enjoy a meal in a historic setting.
More about visiting Valencia in our 2 days in Valencia Guide, it’s the perfect itinerary for enjoying the host city after your triathlon competition.
It’s all set, you have booked your accommodation in Valencia and got to know the places to visit in Valencia. Now get back to training and good luck on your race day!
Disclaimer:
I wrote this article based on my experience running 4 Ironman events in Italy, Malaysia, Thailand, and Brazil and my visits to Valencia and Spain. This race is organized by Ironman, Love and Road is not associated at any level with the organizers. Love and Road is also not associated on any level with Nirvana, a company that organizes Ironman experiences for athletes. We are proud to be part of a triathlon family made of international athletes who are always looking for a new sporting destination.
