On a sun-drenched day with just the right touch of breeze, the Royal Marsh of Gandia offered an ideal setting for a tranquil day trip filled with natural beauty and cultural charm.

*Report & Photos by Art Historian and Educator Karla Darocas, B.A. (Hons)*

Upon arrival, visitors are immediately drawn into the landscape by a wooden pathway that leads gently into the heart of the marshlands. One of the highlights along the route is the *Ullal de l’Estany*, a natural freshwater spring that emerges from an underground aquifer. The term *ullal* refers to these bubbling springs, while *l’estany* denotes the lake they feed. Together, they create a distinctive wetland ecosystem, teeming with life and offering a serene backdrop for walking and reflection.

The well-maintained trails and charming wooden footbridges guide explorers through an environment rich in biodiversity. Along the way, ducks glide across the water with ducklings in tow, turtles bask in the sun on fallen logs, and the air is alive with birdsong. A surprising and endearing moment occurred when a friendly pot-bellied pig ambled over to greet visitors—an unexpected delight that added a whimsical touch to the experience.

Beyond the natural beauty, the setting offers a glimpse into local history. In the distance, the hill of Sant Joan rises, crowned by the ruins of Bairén Castle. Historical records note that in 1666, Empress Margaret of Austria—immortalized in Velázquez’s *Las Meninas*—visited these very wetlands. Accompanied by the Duchess Maria Ponce de León, she wandered the paths as musicians played from boats drifting through the reeds, creating a scene that must have been both regal and ethereal.

After a leisurely exploration of the marsh, a visit to the old port district of Gandia, known as *el Grau*, provides the perfect conclusion to the day. This traditional fishing neighborhood offers a relaxed seaside atmosphere where locals and families gather. Here, visitors can enjoy light meals on sunny terraces overlooking clusters of heritage fishing huts and historic waterfront homes.

The name *Grau*, from the Latin *gradus* meaning “step” or “landing place,” aptly describes the area’s gentle descent from the town to the sea—a place steeped in maritime tradition and community spirit.

This day in Gandia’s marshlands and port district delivers more than just scenic views—it offers a moment of calm, a connection to history, and a reminder of the quiet joy found in nature and local culture.