After pickup in Valencia we make our way to the Royal Monastery of Santa Maria del Puig, *journey time 25mins. Our guided tour of the Monastery starts 1000hrs. Background: founded by King Jaime I "The Conquerer" in 1240 it´s historical relevance is due to the definitive confrontation of Valencia, the Battle of El Puig 1237. A church was completed by 1240 & affiliated with the Mercedarian Knights order. Soon the church was insufficient for the flood of pilgrims & in 1300 the present stunning Gothic church erected. In 1588 the imposing Monastery was built & we visit the cloisters; Salón Real still used by monarchs on visits to Valencia; Salón Gótico of King Jaume I with replica his sword & Salón of Ceramics. Highlights include Frescos of Camarin de la Virgin, the 6thC Byzantine image of Santa Maria carved in stone set in a stunning painted retablo, admirable collection of paintings from Vergara & Espinosa among others and ancient ornaments.

Arriving at Sagunto we visit many of the Roman antiquities; the Castle with Forum, Almenara Gate, Military History Museum, South Gate of Roman Circus, the colossal Amphitheatre I AD, seating 4000 people being among the most impressive. As we weave our way through the old streets we view buildings & relics from the Islamic & medieval period such as the Church of Santa Maria constructed by Jaime I, Jewish quarter, baths & burial cemetery, "Ermitas" La Sangre, Magdelena & Calvary, Sagunto History Museum, Casa del Berenguer noble home & Plaza Mayor elements...passing interesting local art/craft shops on our accent to the castle. The order of our route varies. (*Journey time El Puig to Sagunto 20 mins.) This is a walking tour with inclined road to the theatre & castle. I consider it easy/moderate difficulty & is gradual ascent- if one has walking problems/health issues this may be difficult but similiar to my other tours to Xàtiva & Peñiscola Castles in walking involved, visit my website!

Our themed wine tasting takes place opposite the Teatro Romano at Restaurante "Le Fou" at 1345hrs approx. consisting of 5 select wines inc. Vintage 30+yr Fondillon with *maridaje 4 innovative gourmet dishes. You may also taste the premium Ex .Virgin Olive Oil from the mountains. The Express Tasting option inc. cheese & bread to compliment the tasting, not a lunch with shorter duration. Depending on weather, we may be on the terrace with Roman Fountain or in the comfortable salon with castle view. Later we descend to the town ... returning to Valencia for approx. 1630hrs. The tour is flexible with omission of some monuments & return to Valencia earlier or can be tailored to suit your ship times. *Return to Journey to Valencia or port 25mins.

*The Winery/Cheese maker option also in addition visits a rustic artisan winery with tastings of 4 organic, structured wines with low production in the majestic mountains. Tastings of wines featuring Monastrell (mourvedre) Syrah, Cab. Sauv. with local artisan cheeses & followed by visit to the award winning Cheese maker a few mins. walk away to purchase cheese. Tastings fees, transport & visit included in this addon option price.