Oliva Area Guide

Oliva is a perfectly preserved old town of the medieval flowering period. You can stroll through the ancient Christian town between their churches, stately homes, ancient sites, and museums. And climb the old Moorish quarter of the suburb that retains its typical streets.

Highlights and attractions

The promenade or “paseo” in Oliva is the heart of the town, this is lined with trees and there are wide open spaces with benches where people sit in the evening and chat, there is a play area for children and of course many cafes and restaurants where you can sit out in the open air. In the old town there are two churches: Sant Roc and Santa Maria la Major. Sant Roc dates from the 18th-19th centuries and Santa Maria from the 17th-18th centuries. At the top of the hill in the old town is Santa Anna Castle, built in the 16th century. There is also an ancient Roman kiln in the heart of the town.

Chiringuitos

Chiringuitos are beach bars and have an interesting history dating back to the 1920s. it is widely believed chiringuitos originated in the 1950s when forward thinking fishermen’s wives realised there may be a demand for fresh fish and cold drinks as foreign tourists began to trickle onto the beaches of the fishing villages of Spain. The early day chiringuitos were very often nothing more than an overturned boat used to serve up tapas and drinks. As business increased the shrewdest fishing families decided to build wooden kiosks.

Oliva has one of the most famous Chiringuitos in the region "Oli Ba Ba". In first line you will be able to enjoy the most spectacular sea views while taking one of their cocktails and listening to music.

Golf

The Oliva Nova Golf and Country Club offers 18 holes of pure golfing paradise extending to over 50 hectares and designed by world famous Spanish golfer Seve Ballesteros together with an international equestrian centre and a 5-Star Resort Hotel.

Commuting

Oliva is only 40 minutes from Valencia city and the airport and only 1 hour and 15 minutes from Alicante, making it easily accessible from both airports. It is also within easy reach of Denia, Javea and Calpe where you will find the best beaches and coves.

Schools

Oliva has 6 public primary schools and 2 privates, in addition to two institutes. Therefore, there is a wide academic offer and it is located very close to the campus of Gandia belonging to the Polytechnic University of Valencia.