The Hardy Wench

Arriving in La Valle at the two floor apartment which is Nereyda’s home I couldn’t help but be struck by the beautiful view they have over the nearby mountains.

This morning we were going to breakfast (I know it’s a continuous eating fest!) in a local cafe popular with workmen to have what is known in Valenciano as ‘esmorcai’ in Castilian ‘almuerzo,’ which is a snack between breakfast and lunch. Due to the high winds everyone was inside and a noisy scene of almost all men greeted us when we entered. Although loud, the atmosphere was convivial and animated. I had developed a headcold and Nereyda recommended a coffee cremaet (cremated coffee). This is a black coffee which is made in a terracotta cup with rum or brandy which is set alight before the coffee is added. I’d certainly recommend this as a remedy for a cold, it made me feel much better, at least until the alcohol wore off! Although it was windy it was not as bad as we had expected so we headed for Moncofar the small beach village near the La Valle. It seems unusual for Spain as the beach is a pebbly one. The sea was very blue and I wished I had been feeling well enough for a swim but the the current looked strong and I didn’t think it a good idea with a cold so instead we headed to another cafe where I had my favourite ice cream, Blanco y Negro. A ball of ice cream served over frozen coffee, another great cold remedy recommendation.

After returning home for a siesta we made ready to go out for yet another meal, this time to a restaurant ‘Ca Mario,’ in a village Alfondegiya, three kilometers away. The decor was very traditional ceramics and the menu related to us orally by Mario himself. Yet another gastronomic success with Sepia, Pork croquettes and a seafood casserole. I tried my first Vermouth which was beautifully served.

We had arrived early for dinner (eight o’clock) by Spanish standards and we were the only diners when we arrived but by the time we left it was full.

And so home and to bed once again after a busy day of eating and drinking!