Over the weekend, we found ourselves child-free, thanks to my in-laws who came to visit last week from the UK. They kindly offered to take the children off our hands so that my husband and I can spend a little alone time together. 😉
We didn’t waste any time organising what we wanted to do, which was to spend the weekend in the city. Check out places we’ve been meaning to for a while, and also to enjoy a rare night out and visit a flamenco bar that’s been recommended to us by a good friend.
Café del Duende is situated just around Torres de Cuart. During Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights they offer live flamenco shows featuring professionals from Valencia and around the world.
Of course, the ideal place to go to see the real flamenco would be in Andalusia but to have the chance to see something nearly as authentic in Valencia was good enough for me. It’s been a long wait and I have very high expectations!
The place itself is very cosy and intimate with only 8 tables. I would advise arriving 45 minutes to half an hour early to get a seat at the front. We took a taxi from our hotel which was situated near the cathedral, the bar is a little tricky to find as it’s tucked away in the corner of Carrer de Turia, much harder to find in the dark!
We got there at about 11:00 and the only seating available was at the bar, but I think it’s the best place to get a good view of the stage. Soon enough, more people arrived, the place got full pretty quickly and many had to stand up.
The show started at 11:30 and lasted for 90 minutes with a small break in between. The atmosphere was friendly and casual, but the real power and emotion came when they started to perform.
The girls took turns to dance on their own and also together. The hard sounds of their flamenco shoes echoed around the small room, along with the singing and guitar playing there wasn’t a moment when I took my eyes off them.
A truly mesmerising and magical experience that is hard to justify with words. I can’t wait to go again!
Website: Café del Duende
