If you're looking for a welcoming, good-value, unpretentious getaway in a small, authentic Spanish town, with near-guaranteed sunshine to boot, then look no further. Built in 1880, this traditional townhouse a short drive from vibrant Valencia has been artfully restored and imbued with a simple, colourful charm. Enter through giant carved doors to find an open-plan ground floor boasting high wood-beamed ceilings and pretty tiled floors.
Step through to the rear courtyard, where flowers burst out of window boxes, and a slim sun-warmed pool awaits. This is the spot to enjoy delicious breakfasts, or sunset drinks from the bar; or to while away lazy days with a good book. There's a lovely, bohemian-meets-Moorish vibe inside, and bookshelves in the salon invite relaxed lounging. The 5 bedrooms upstairs are simple but spick-and-span, with immaculately kept bathrooms. Your hosts can point you to sandy beaches (Cullera, 40 mins' drive, is a favourite) or spectacular Xàtiva castle (15 mins), and give you the lowdown on Valencia's best bars and boutiques (45 mins). This is a well-priced little gem with a lovely, friendly vibe - a great base for exploring this under-the-radar region.
Highs
- A winning combination of authentic Spain with cosmopolitan touches: modern art, woven sculptures, Art Deco lamps
- We loved lounging by the spotless 11-metre swimming pool and flower-filled courtyard
- Friendly owners Eric and Frederique are eager to ensure your stay is all it should be
- The elegant city of Valencia is within easy reach, as are sandy beaches and rugged mountains
Lows
- Don't expect full hotel services: this is a simple, friendly, immaculately kept guesthouse
- Rafelguaraf is an authentic Spanish town with a few bars and a post office - but it won't keep you up at night
- You'll need a car to explore (there's free parking in the street)
- No kids under 12 permitted
Best time to go
We'd advise going in spring or autumn if you can, when the weather is reliably sunny and much warmer than northern Europe. Summer in southern Spain can of course be very hot, but there is a pool here, and bedrooms have air-con. The hotel is closed December - March.
Our top tips
We absolutely loved exploring Xativa (15 minute drive) for its preserved historical centre and fantastic castle, which has a long history, two peaks and fabulous views
Location
Casa Sibarita is in the village of Rafelguaraf, a 45-minute drive from Valencia.
By Air
Fly into Valencia Manises (65km) or Alicante (140km). Click on the links below for a list of airlines serving these airports.
From the Airport
We recommend hiring a car. Otherwise book a taxi; or take the metro from Valencia airport to Estación El Norte, then catch a train to Xàtiva (30 mins) and a taxi from there (15 mins).
Detailed directions will be sent when you book through i-escape.
More on getting to Valencia and getting around
Airports:
- Valencia Manises 65.0 km VLC
- Alicante 140.0 km ALC
Other:
- Beach 30.0 km
- Shops 0.1 km
- Restaurant 0.1 km
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 3 independent reviews from i-escape guests
We had the pleasure of spending a week with Eric, Frederique and Meleri in September. I can’t remember more hospitable, friendly and informative hosts and as a result we got to explore the wonderful places and culture of the region. When you go through the front door you enter a special space, with vaulted ceilings beautifully presented from another time and tastefully decorated. We loved staying here and look forward to going back… the breakfast is real treat.
Fantastic stay with Eric and Frederique. AMAZING. We were thoroughly spoilt with the hospitality and kindness of our hosts. Breakfast next to the pool was relaxed with fresh local orange juice freshly baked pastries, fab scrambled eggs and coffee on tap. Our room was very spacious and the balcony was a bonus enjoying Sunny mornings and evenings soaking up the warm climate.
We had evening drinks and freshly baked cookies next to the pool - our hosts were always on hand to provide drinks and whatever we needed. They provided us loads of local knowledge, advice and information. We enjoyed local trips out to various places - shopping centres, Xàtiva castle, Javea, and restaurants all recommended and ideal for our group. Great value, great people and a thoroughly gorgeous week away with family. Thank you
We stayed only 3 weeks after the new owners Eric & Frederique took over, and pleased to say they are upholding and even improving on the high standards of hospitality that preceeded them. Casa Sibarita is indeed a hidden jewel amidst the orange groves and once through the doors one can't help but be seduced by the oasis of quiet calm in the exquisite courtyard. There are plenty of beaches within driving distance - our favourite was Playa de Xeraco; nothing like an early morning swim and seeing the sun rise before dashing back to a lovely breakfast. The bustling city of Xátiva, with its ancient historic 'Little' and 'Big' castles is definitely worth a day trip. There are a few bars that offer simple meals in the village of Rafelguaraf, and further afield in nearby Manuel, Bar Restaurante Sol offers a tasty lunch set menu, although always try to save some room for the even tastier evening meals back at Casa Sibarita. We loved it, had a most relaxing week there, excellent value, well looked after, we are already planning to return.
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape