Chelva and the water route: Other side, hiking, bathing, village

In Chelva and on the water route you can really see how important water is for nature. In the river grass, flowers, plants and trees show their strong colours. But if you look further over the border of the river bed, there you can see dryness and emptiness. A different kind of beauty for sure and the contrast makes Chelva and its surroundings a special place to be, to hike or just to enjoy the day. It is also essential for human settlements like for An[na - the town of water](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/a-trip-to-the-town-of-water-anna-qw9k). Both versions of natural beauty are found on the water route. Spend a day in Chelva, on one of its hiking trails or have some food in this special Spanish village and enjoy the diversity of Sp[anish cultural](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/dipping-into-spanish-culture-in-sagunto-4ibe) and historical heritage. This is the continued article about the area and the water route (link to first part).** Keep reading if you want to know more about Chelva** itself and what’s behind the tunnel.

As you go up just before the tunnel on the other side there is a great view over the area and the river bed.

After that you can continue the track until there is a small old water dam or better said, the ruin of it and another small waterfall - called Olinches Dam. It's a dead end, but worth discovering, if you are in shape and don't mind a few more steps. Certainly, it's a good spot for having a short rest - enjoying the loud sounds of the waterfall and relishing the refreshing effect of the cool air on the skin.

After your rest go back to the tunnel, make your way through it and down again. You will encounter once more the waterhole with its small waterfall. It's called the Playeta and actually you're allowed to swim here, so get changed and if the weather conditions go along jump into the cold water.

After the refreshment at the Playeta, continue the circular route along the river Chelva. You will pass once more the parking area and this time go along under the bridge. The route is very green and beautiful. After some time you can either cross the river and go up, where you can enjoy the view over Chelva and onto rock formations or go directly up to the town.

If you go up directly you will find yourself quickly in the middle of the village with its tiny alleys and small squares. From here you can just follow further the water route through the different districts of Chelva. There is a Moorish, Arabic, Jewish and Christian quarter in Chelva. Lose yourself in the small streets and enjoy the cultural variety and discover its differences.  

After enjoying the alleys and the views over the area return to your starting point either at the parking and rest area or to the main square of Chelva.