There are only a few hours left until the most anticipated event of the summer: thetotal solar eclipse. A phenomenon that has been dominating the front pages of national media for weeks and has been the main topic of conversation on every terrace and in everyWhatsAppgroup across the country.
The event is so special that the citywon’t experience another eclipse of this kindfor another 154 years, in 2180. What’s more, that same night will feature another of the summer’s most spectacular astronomical events:the Perseid meteor shower. That’s reason enough for anyone who was on the fence about whether to go out and see it or stay home with the blinds drawn to go out and enjoy one of those once-in-a-lifetime moments.
The northern part of the province of Valencia and the entire province of Castellón will experience this astronomical event in its entirety, and to ensure that interested people can do so safely, the Generalitat has established nine official viewing sites with a total capacity of 85,000 people.
Six of these locations are accessible by public transportation, but if you don’t have enough time or simply don’t want to leave Valencia or go near Malvarrosa, here are some of thebest options for viewing the eclipse.
Urban Viewpoints and Terraces
Valencia has a wide range ofterraces androoftopsfromwhich to view the eclipse above the city skyline, complete with music, cocktails, or great food. Prices vary greatly depending on the type of entertainment offered, the location, and demand, but the vast majority require an admission fee or a minimum purchase.
Atenea Sky has put together a special show featuring a DJ set and a wide variety of dining options. Located on the eighth floor of the Ateneo Mercantil, it’s one of Valencia’s most popular rooftops, so we recommend making a reservation in advance. Another of the city’s most iconic terraces, the one at the Palau Alameda, will also offer an exclusive experience that includes three drinks and certified eclipse glasses.
Other hotels, such as the Barceló Valencia, Estimar, and the SkyBar at the Novotel Valencia Lavant, are also offering viewing events accompanied by cocktails and music. All of them have very limited capacity and few spots available. The Veles e Vents building also offers a viewing experience with music, though its event runs until 3:30 a.m. and has a larger capacity.
Although the most premium and unique experience is offered by The Rooftop Soul of 1927 at the Grand Hotel Centenari: a 150-euro tasting menu created especially for the event, accompanied by cocktails and a DJ set.
The eclipse from the Mediterranean
Another option offering a perfect view of the moment when the Moon completely covers the Sun is watching the eclipse from the sea. This experience isn’t limited to those who own their own boats, as there are companies offering boat tours to experience the moment from the Mediterranean. Prices vary depending on the company and the type of vessel, but range from 100 to 250 euros per person. Most companies have sold out or reached capacity on their boats, but some, like Sailwiz, still have spots available, so we recommend booking as soon as possible.
Another option for the more athletic is offered by surf and paddleboard schools like Ocean Republik, which will organize a massive outing so participants can witness the most anticipated moment of the summer from their boards.
