The u3a movement was founded in France in 1973, making its way to the UK in 1982. It encourages groups of people no longer in full-time work to come together and continue their enjoyment of learning subjects of interest to them.
u3a in Oliva was founded in 2007, and offers a wide range of groups to members. We aren't officially affiliated with our sister groups in the UK or elsewhere., but operate as a standalone organisation that shares similar aims. There are u3a branches in many parts of Spain.
Membership is open to anyone in their 'Third Age'— defined as those no longer in full-time work or with primary childcare responsibilities. We don't have a set minimum age limit or criteria, but most of our members are retired and aged 50 or over.
About Oliva
Oliva is a municipality in the Valencian Community, Spain. To its east lie 10 kilometres (6.2 miles) of coastline and beaches. The blue flagged beaches of Oliva stretch for 7 kilometres (4.3 miles); many contain sand dunes.
Eight kilometres to the north is Gandia, a small historic city, with another great beach.
Oliva has one of the province’s biggest and most colourful Moors and Christians Festivals in the area.
In the old town there are two churches - Sant Roc dates from the 18th–19th centuries, and Santa Maria la Major from the 17th–18th centuries.
Oliva’s Old Town has historical streets which see various fiestas celebrated throughout the year: the falles “Fiesta” in March, the Moors and Christians in July and Semanta Santa (Holy Week).
We really appreciate the support of the Department of Citizen Participation at the Ajuntament d'Oliva who provide access to their great facilities. Thank you for your help.
Gracias al Ayuntamiento por su ayuda.
Useful links
Tourism and transport
Advice
- Age Concern Spain
- Living in Spain (gov.uk)
- Age in Spain
- Support in Spain Directory (links to national and local services)
- Residency requirements
- Change your Driving License
- Health Care in Spain (gov.uk guidance)
- British Embassy
- CAB Spain (great source of advice)
- Brits in Spain (Facebook) (run by the British Embassy)
- u3a in Spain (sister organisations around Spain)
Social media groups
- u3a Oliva Facebook - our very own Facebook group (just for members)
- Oliva Tattler (Facebook group) - great for local news, events and buy / sell
- Gandia & Oliva Social Club - who organise a wide range of events and trips