While the kids were off in Cali, we snuck in a road trip birthday getaway—first to the Guadalest Valley, then up to Matarraña. Both were quiet, beautiful, and just far enough from real life to feel like we’d gotten away with something.

Stayed at VIVOOD and Torre del Marqués, which nailed the whole “peaceful with great views” thing. We read, played cards, floated, and occasionally remembered what day it was. Pretty ideal.