Valencia: Montanejos Thermal Spring & Girlfriend Waterfall

Montanejos gives you something Valencia itself cannot: a full day in the mountains, with swimming holes, waterfalls, and a guide who turns the drive into part of the experience. The water is a pleasant 25°C year-round, not a steaming spa bath, so think natural river swimming rather than a luxury hot tub.

I like the small-group feel and the way the guides, including Ivan, Miguel, Serena, and Borja, make an effort to keep everyone involved. I also like the variety: you get Girlfriend Waterfall, Montanejos, mountain scenery, local stories, and time to swim instead of rushing from one photo stop to the next.

The main caution is simple: the word thermal can set your expectations too high. The water may feel warm in summer, but mountain runoff can make the main swimming area noticeably cool, especially outside the hottest months. Bring water shoes, and do not book this expecting a hot spring resort.

Key points at a glance

• The water stays around 25°C: Montanejos is pleasant for swimming, but it is not a piping-hot spa.
• Girlfriend Waterfall adds a second swimming stop: Salto de la Novia gives the day a different setting and a refreshing change from the spring.
• Guides are a major part of the experience: Ivan, Miguel, Francesca, Kika, Serena, and Borja have all led departures noted for warm service, local stories, and careful group management.
• You get about eight hours away from Valencia: The day includes roughly 45-minute transfers, swimming, a guided visit, hiking, lunch time, and a longer return journey.
• Optional activities can replace the waterfall: Choose hiking, rafting, or kayaking when booking if you prefer a more active day.
• Pack for wet, rocky conditions: Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and water shoes will make the day much easier.

Leaving Valencia for Montanejos

The meeting point is at Av. d’Aragó, 31, by The Little Corner Café, although the exact point can vary by booking option. There is no hotel pickup, so you need to reach the departure point yourself.

From there, you travel by air-conditioned bus or van toward the mountains. The trip takes around eight hours from pickup to return, with about 45 minutes to the first main stop and around 75 minutes for the final journey back. That is a fair amount of road time, but the route is broken up well by swimming, walking, photos, and lunch.

I see the transport as part of the value. A private vehicle takes away the need to rent a car or navigate rural roads, and the guide can point out places along the way. Ivan is often praised for adding stories about Spanish culture, the Civil War, the local economy, and the countryside while driving. Borja has also been noted for stopping at unusual places and helping take group photographs.

The van is generally described as clean and comfortable, with air-conditioning and cold water available. If you sit at the back, hearing the guide can be harder while the vehicle is moving. If you have motion sickness or hearing difficulty, tell the guide early and ask about a front seat.

Salto de la Novia and the first swim

The first main stop is Salto de la Novia, also called Girlfriend Waterfall. You get around an hour and a half here for photos, walking, and swimming.

This stop works because it is not simply another view from the roadside. You have time to get into the water, look around, and enjoy the setting without being pushed straight back onto the bus. The waterfall area also gives you a different mood from Montanejos. It feels more like a natural swimming spot, and the water can be chilly even in summer.

If you are brave, try the slide at the waterfall, which has been singled out as a fun part of the swim. Use care around wet rock, and wear shoes made for water if you have them. Ordinary flip-flops are a poor choice for uneven, slippery ground.

The waterfall is also where the tour can feel most playful. Guides may take photographs with your camera, lend out water equipment, and help the group find its way around. Snorkel masks, noodles, life jackets, and children’s water toys are listed among the supplied equipment, though you should still bring your own essentials if you have them.

In some departures, the order of the stops may vary. The important point is that the day includes both Salto de la Novia and Montanejos unless you select an optional activity that replaces the waterfall.

Montanejos and its 25°C swimming area

After the waterfall, the vehicle continues to Aigües Termals de Montanejos. You have about two hours for the thermal springs, guided time, walking, photos, and swimming, followed by around 30 minutes set aside for lunch.

The setting is the star. The spring pools sit among rocky mountain scenery and clear water, with a look that several people compare to Thailand. That comparison is about the appearance and surroundings, not the temperature or facilities. You are still at a natural swimming area, not an imported tropical resort.

The advertised water temperature is 25°C, or 77°F, throughout the year in the swimming area. That is comfortable once you are in, especially on a warm day, but it is not hot. In winter, the contrast between the air, the mountain runoff, and the water is much more noticeable.

There is also an important practical detail: the small retaining pool may feel warmer than the main water. One account describes the warmest section as a place for only two or three people, with tiny fish gently nibbling at still feet. It sounds amusing, but space there is limited. The wider swimming area can be cooler because it mixes with mountain water.

I would treat the mineral-water claims sensibly. The water is described as mineral-rich and traditionally associated with benefits for skin, stomach, and kidneys, but this is not a medical treatment. Enjoy it as a natural swim, not as a cure.

Changing facilities and bathrooms are available at the thermal pool location, and there is a concession stand. Still, bring a towel and dry clothes rather than relying on the site to provide everything you need.

The surprise, the short walk, and the slower pace

The tour description hints at a surprise, and the day may include an extra point of interest or a historical stop. A Civil War trench visit has been part of some departures, adding a useful reminder that these hills are not only about swimming and pretty views.

The walking portion does not appear to be a demanding mountain trek. It is better understood as a short guided walk around the area, with time for photos and context. One account felt the hike was more like a filler than a must-do activity, while others enjoyed the extra views and local stories.

That difference is worth noting. If you want a serious hiking day, this is probably not the right product. If you want a gentle walk between swims and a chance to see more than the water, it fits well.

The guide makes the difference here. Ivan is often singled out for his energy, facts, humor, and attention to safety. Miguel has been praised for helping people feel included, arranging a front seat for someone prone to car sickness, and keeping the mood light with Spanish music. Francesca, Kika, Serena, and Borja have also been described as friendly, attentive, and involved.

You are not simply handed a map and left alone. The guide stays aware of the group, explains the stops, and helps with practical matters such as water, photos, and swimming equipment.

Lunch and what you actually pay for

The advertised price is $57 per person. For an eight-hour excursion with transport from Valencia, a guide, entry tickets, insurance, equipment, and two major nature stops, that is a reasonable price, particularly if you do not want to rent a car.

The food arrangement needs checking before you book. The formal inclusions say food is not included, yet several departures have included a sandwich and drink, and some people describe the lunch as fresh, tasty, or suitable for special diets. One guide arranged a gluten-free lunch. Since the information is not fully consistent, confirm the food plan for your exact departure and carry money or a snack as backup.

This matters because the schedule puts lunch at Montanejos, after the swimming and guided time. There may be a concession stand, but food choice can be limited. If you have dietary needs, tell the operator in advance rather than assuming a suitable meal will appear.

The value improves if your day includes the transport, entry, safety cover, swimming equipment, and lunch. Even without lunch, the price still covers the costly and time-consuming part: getting to two rural sites and back without driving.

Optional hiking, rafting, or kayaking

At booking, you may choose hiking, rafting, or kayaking instead of the Girlfriend Waterfall visit. This gives you a way to shape the day around your interests.

Choose the standard waterfall option if you want two relaxed swimming stops, photos, and a broad introduction to the area. Choose one of the active options if your priority is movement rather than a second natural swimming site.

The available information does not give detailed difficulty levels, routes, or equipment lists for each alternative. For that reason, ask exactly what the selected option includes before paying. Do not assume that choosing hiking means a long or strenuous route, or that rafting and kayaking follow the same timetable as the waterfall visit.

What to pack for a wet mountain day

Your packing list is short but important:

• Swimsuit and towel
• Water shoes or sturdy shoes that can get wet
• Comfortable clothing
• Sunscreen
• Comfortable walking shoes
• A dry change of clothes
• Any personal food you may need

Water shoes are especially useful at Montanejos, where rocks can make entering the water uncomfortable. The guides may have some equipment available, but your own well-fitting footwear is more reliable.

Alcohol, drugs, fireworks, explosive materials, food, and drinks are not allowed in the vehicle. Smoking is also prohibited inside. Pets are not permitted, and the trip is not suitable for wheelchair users or babies under one year old.

The activity is suitable for all ages beyond those restrictions, but swimming ability and comfort around natural water still matter. Children should remain closely supervised, particularly near the waterfall and rocky edges.

Who will enjoy this day most

I would recommend this outing to you if you want a nature break from Valencia without giving up the ease of organized transport. It suits couples, families with older children, friends, and solo visitors who enjoy meeting a small group.

It is also a good choice if you value a guide who talks during the journey. The strongest part of the day is not just the water. It is the combination of scenery, local stories, practical help, and time to enjoy each stop.

You may want another tour if you are looking for a true thermal spa, a serious hike, or a food-focused day. The water is warm rather than hot, the walking is limited, and the lunch arrangement needs confirmation. Winter visitors should be especially realistic about the swimming temperature.

Should you book Montanejos?

Book it if you want two beautiful rural stops, an easy escape from Valencia, and enough free time to swim and take photographs. The $57 price is fair for the transport, guide, tickets, safety cover, and eight-hour schedule, especially without a rental car.

I would book the standard option for a relaxed day built around water. I would choose rafting, kayaking, or hiking only after checking the exact details. Pack water shoes, do not expect steaming pools, and confirm lunch before departure.

The guides are the strongest reason to choose this particular outing. A good leader such as Ivan or Miguel can turn a long drive into part of the day, keep the group safe, and make the experience feel personal rather than mechanical.

FAQ

How long does the Montanejos tour last?

The experience lasts about eight hours, including transportation from Valencia and the return journey.

Where does the tour begin?

The listed meeting point is Av. d’Aragó, 31, at The Little Corner Café. The exact meeting point may vary depending on the option booked.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup is not included, so you need to reach the assigned meeting point.

What languages does the guide speak?

Live guiding is available in English and Spanish.

How warm is the water at Montanejos?

The swimming area is listed as 25°C, or 77°F, throughout the year. It is warm enough for swimming but not a hot, steaming spa pool.

Is Girlfriend Waterfall included?

The standard experience includes Salto de la Novia, also known as Girlfriend Waterfall. Hiking, rafting, or kayaking can be selected instead and will replace the waterfall visit.

Is lunch included?

The formal activity information says food is not included. Some departures have provided a sandwich and drink, so confirm the meal arrangement for your booking and bring a snack if needed.

What should I bring?

Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing. Water shoes are especially useful because the swimming areas can be rocky.

Is the tour suitable for children?

The experience is described as suitable for all ages, but it is not suitable for babies under one year old. Children should be supervised around the natural swimming areas.

Can I cancel the booking?

You can cancel up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund. The reserve-now, pay-later option is also available.