Fact finding trip to Olivia, Piles, Gandia

First thing to be aware of is that each of the three towns you mention (and the others between) is that the beach areas are distinct and a distance from the towns. 

Piles is the smallest of the three. Consequently it has less in the way of amenities. 

Oliva, besides the beach has the old town which is built on the hill and the new town, these are separated by the N332. 

Gandia the largest and you'd be hard pushed to think of anything you couldn't find here. 

The beach areas of all three are nearly deserted in winter Monday to Friday, weekends there's a bit more life but most bars, restaurants and shops are closed. 

A lot depends on what you want. 

Thank you. 
I had figured most of what you replied but some of your answer was very helpful in assisting me narrow down my options. 

If you can think of anything else, let me know. 

I know them reasonably well. 

I hope you don't regret saying that;)

I don't think we are interested in the beach areas as we would like to live there during the winter months and have some community around us.  We may consider a permanent move in the future.

We have read on the forum that some parts of Oliva and Gandia may be less desirable due to noise/crime but we have no idea (at the moment) which parts that refers to.

Can those towns be split up into easily referred to districts?

Was there a change in the HGV use of the N332 through Oliva a while ago and did that help with the traffic flow?

Thanks

Alan

OK. 

I'm less familiar with the areas of Gandia. I'm sure that areas, or streets, have been mentioned on here before. I'll try to find some more. 

Oliva did have a problem with burglaries in the old town, I'm led to believe that it's not so much of a problem now. The old town is popular with foreigners as it's quaint and less popular with Spanish and consequently cheaper. The area where you would find most Gypsies borders the old town, they are both on the landward side of the N332. Lots of people will tell you that they live in Gypsy areas and don't have a problem, others wouldn't want to live with that culture and all that goes with it. 

Very recently a new junction on the AP7 to serve the south of Oliva, where the industrial estates are, was opened. This has helped by diverting traffic, particularly lorries, away from the town. 

It won't take the through traffic away and might be negated entirely if motorway tolls are reintroduced, but for now it's noticeably better. 

There are Facebook groups which may provide more targeted information. Two that spring to mind are the Oliva Tatler and Gandia Grapevine. 

HTH

Try putting "relocating to Gandia" in the search box, that should bring a couple of topics up. 

You could also ask in the Gandia section of the forum and others who live there would be more likely to see it. 

Very helpful HTH. 

Thank you for your time and information. 

Hi! Your plan to explore Olivia, Piles, and Gandia to find a potential holiday/permanent home sounds exciting. In Olivia, each district offers a unique charm. Piles and Gandia, too, have their distinct neighborhoods. Locals might suggest hidden gems!Meeting permanent resident expats for coffee is a fantastic idea. I did the same when I was exploring Ireland. If you decide to visit it one day, definitely check out therevolution for the best tasty experience! Good luck on your journey to find your perfect spot!

I think we have narrowed things down a bit. It was exciting. Thank you.