A short ride, then a day of water. I love the Fuentes de los Baños mineral pools and the guided walk to El Chorro, one of eastern Spain’s most dramatic water sights. The one drawback to plan for: the hike runs in real heat, and you should expect getting wet at least once.

This trip is built for flexibility. I like that the hike is optional (non-swimmers can stay at the pools), and the guides—like Alejandro and Nouha, or Paco—tend to keep the group moving at a comfortable pace with plenty of breaks. Just keep in mind that it’s not for everyone: no kids under 14, and no hiking for people over 65.

Key Things You’ll Remember

• Fuentes de los Baños pools stay around 23°C year-round, so the swim feels doable even in shoulder seasons
• El Chorro is a wall of water—300,000 liters per minute—plus it’s a big “wow” moment even if the jet is lower at certain times
• The walk follows the Mijares River, with varied scenery and steep stretches early on
• The hike distance can shrink in summer heat (about 5–6 km instead of ~9 km)
• You get free time at the pools—enough to actually relax, not just change and go
• Guides are reported as friendly and organized; names you may hear include Manu, Taoufik, Miguel, Francesco, Marco, and Pau

Valencia to Montanejos: A Real Day Trip With Big Payoff

Montanejos is one of those places that feels like a different world from Valencia, but you don’t need a hotel night or complicated planning to reach it. You’re looking at about an hour’s drive, then your day shifts gears from city rhythm to river sounds and mountain air.

The best part of this format is that you’re not just “doing nature.” You’re doing nature with a payoff at both ends: a guided hike that gets you moving and a long, rewarding pool stop where the day finally slows down. That mix is why this works so well for couples, friends, and even people who aren’t die-hard hikers.

The route also travels through a part of the Valencian Community that you’ll likely pass right past on your own. A coach ride plus a local guide means you show up ready and you leave with stories—whether the guide is named Miguel or Pau, you’ll usually get clear explanations and a sense of what you’re looking at.

The Hike on the Mijares River: Moderate, But Not a Sunday Stroll

The hiking portion is described as moderate, roughly 9 kilometers long with hills. That matters because “moderate” can mean different things. On this one, you should be ready for ups and downs and at least one section that feels steep early on.

One recurring theme in the feedback is that the hardest part often comes near the start. People talk about a steep incline that eases after the first stretch (around 45 minutes), then turns into a steadier rhythm with breaks. That’s good news: if you pace yourself early, the hike stops feeling like a sprint.

Then there’s the “you will get wet” factor. Some sections involve water and you may pass through areas that splash or soak you—sometimes described as water on one side near a dam or even getting caught in a waterfall-like flow. You don’t need to be afraid, but you do need to be prepared. Bring footwear you don’t mind getting damp, and pack a change of clothes if you’d like to feel comfortable later.

Summer Heat Means a Shorter Route

In hot months, the hike route may be adapted to about 5–6 kilometers. Even with the shorter distance, you should still hit the main highlights, including the jetstream experience. Translation: if you’re visiting in July or August, don’t expect the full 9 km plan—expect smart adjustments.

Non-Swimmers Can Still Enjoy It

This matters a lot. The tour is suitable for non-swimmers, and the hiking part is not mandatory. If you want the pools and you’re happy to skip the walking, you can do that. And many people clearly find the swim the best part—so you’re not “settling” if you choose the pools only.

El Chorro: The Water Jet That Turns Heads

El Chorro is the big spectacle, the moment people remember after they go home. The tour frames it as a powerful water jet, releasing 300,000 liters per minute. Even if you’ve never seen this kind of flow, you’ll understand it instantly: it’s loud, forceful, and visually striking.

Here’s the practical angle. Depending on the season, the jet may be lower or temporarily down. Some people report that the water jet was down in summer and the hike felt less picturesque without that constant spectacle. If your dream is a full-powered roar every minute, I can’t promise it will be at peak performance on your date—but you’ll still get the route and the overall experience that makes El Chorro famous.

Also, don’t expect El Chorro to be a passive viewpoint. It tends to be part of the hiking story: you walk to it, you feel the water energy around it, and you take in the power and views.

Fuentes de los Baños: Mineral Pools at 23°C, With Moorish Legends

After the walk, you get to do the thing your body actually wants: settle into the Fuentes de los Baños natural pools. The temperature is said to remain around 23°C throughout the year. That’s why even in warmer months it can feel cooler than you expect. It’s not a hot tub. It’s more like a steady, refreshing mineral soak.

The lore around the pools is part of what makes the stop more interesting than a generic swim. The pools are said to have been built by the Moorish king Abu Zeit to ensure the beauty of his queens. You may not care about the legend the way a history buff does, but it adds texture to the place. You’re not only floating; you’re in a site with a long cultural storyline.

Expect a Real Swim Break, Not a Quick Dip

The free time at the pools is long enough to actually enjoy yourself. People describe swimming as a highlight and talk about time to relax, sunbathe, and linger. Some even choose to stay at the pools longer instead of pushing the hike all the way.

If you want to make the swim more comfortable, bring water shoes. More than one comment points out that bathing shoes help, especially when you’re walking around the pool area. Also bring a towel and change clothes so you don’t feel stuck in damp gear.

There’s Often More Than Just Water

Some feedback mentions a bar on site for beer snacks and sangria. I can’t promise the menu or availability changes by season, but you’re likely to find enough around the pool area to keep the mood easy.

And bathrooms? One guest specifically noted porta-potties in good condition. That’s a big deal when you’re out for hours, so it’s worth packing your patience just in case facilities feel limited beyond pool time.

How the Full Day Flows: Coach Ride, Hike, Then Slow Down

This is an 8.5-hour day, and the structure is simple: coach to Montanejos, hike portion, pool time, then back to Valencia. The schedule is built so you get transportation handled and you spend the bulk of your energy on the hike and the swim.

The coach ride is part of the value. You don’t waste time figuring out timing or routes, and the guide can give you context on the region along the way (some comments praise guides sharing historical and cultural facts). It also means you can travel light enough without worrying about driving or parking.

Free Time at the Pools Is the Make-or-Break

If you’re choosing this for the experience rather than the exercise, you’ll probably be happy with the amount of pool time. People consistently describe the swim as the best part, sometimes even more than the hiking views. So if you’re in “relax mode,” the tour supports that.

Where the Day Can Feel Long

If you’re new to hills or you’re sensitive to heat, the hike portion may feel more demanding. Even when guided and paced well, you’re still walking up and down. This is why the packing list matters: water, sun protection, and good footwear aren’t optional here.

What’s Included (and Why $51 Can Make Sense)

At about $51 per person, this tour can be good value if you want two things bundled together: guided hiking + transport + access to the pool area.

You’re getting:

• Roundtrip transportation by coach from Valencia
• Guided hike
• Entry to the natural pools area
• Free time to enjoy the pools
• Tour coordinators

What’s not included: food and drinks. That’s normal for day trips, but it changes how you plan the day.

Here’s how I’d think about the value. If you were to do Montanejos on your own, you’d likely spend time sorting transport and figuring out where to go for El Chorro and Fuentes de los Baños. This tour solves that in one shot, and it also reduces your stress. For people who don’t want to research routes after a long day, that convenience alone can be worth the price.

If you’re the kind of traveler who hates guided time, though, it’s a tougher sell. The hike is guided, and the pace depends on a group schedule. Also, if the jetstream is down the day you go, the “wow” factor may feel less intense than peak-season expectations.

What to Pack: Small Details That Save the Day

This is not a “show up in sneakers and wing it” outing. Based on the activity notes and the on-the-ground advice people shared, pack like you’ll get wet and you’ll be in sun.

Bring:

• Swimwear
• Towel
• Water shoes (or footwear that can handle wet terrain)
• Change of clothes
• Hiking shoes
• Sun hat and sunscreen
• Water and a small snack or food
• Hiking-ready socks (and consider spare socks if you hate wet socks)

One recurring warning: people get wet during the walk, and some wished they’d packed dry clothes or spare socks. If you’re the type who likes to feel fresh after activity time, do it.

Rain Gear? Depends on the Season

Some comments suggest rain gear can help, including guidance to pack it if weather is unpredictable. At least in some summer situations, people say you likely won’t need a rain jacket. My practical take: bring a lightweight packable layer if your trip coincides with stormy weeks. If it’s dry and hot, you’ll be glad you didn’t over-pack.

Who Should Book This, and Who Should Skip It

This tour suits people who want a day of nature with a guided structure. If you like active sightseeing but also want a proper recovery moment at natural pools, this is a strong match.

You’ll probably love it if:

• You’re visiting Valencia and want a high-impact day trip
• You like moderate hikes with views and a clear destination payoff
• You care about relaxing at the end, not just sightseeing
• You want something doable even if you’re not a top athlete (as long as you can handle hills)

You should think twice if:

• You’re over 65 (people over 65 can’t join the hiking portion for safety)
• You have heart problems or respiratory issues
• You’re pregnant
• You have mobility impairments
• You’re traveling with children under 14

Non-Swimmers: Make Your Choice Early

If you don’t want to hike, don’t let yourself feel pressured. The tour specifically notes non-swimmers can join, and the hike is not mandatory. Decide your plan based on how you want to spend your day: walking for views, or staying at the pools for longer.

Should You Book the Montanejos Guided Hike With Natural Pools?

I’d book it if your ideal Valencia day trip includes both movement and a real soak. The best version of this day is: you get a guided river walk to El Chorro, then you spend enough time in Fuentes de los Baños to forget you came from a city. At $51 with transportation, guidance, and pool entry included, it’s priced like a day you actually benefit from planning.

I’d reconsider if you’re heat-sensitive, don’t want to deal with getting wet, or you’re going specifically for a guaranteed full-power Chorro spectacle every minute. Seasonality can change what you see, and the hike distance can shrink in summer—so adjust your expectations to match the conditions.

FAQ

How long is the Montanejos guided hike and natural pools trip?

The duration is listed as 8.5 hours.

Is the hike required, and is it suitable for non-swimmers?

The excursion is suitable for non-swimmers, and the hiking part is not mandatory. You can alternatively stay at the natural pools.

What is the hike distance and difficulty?

The hiking trail is described as moderate and approximately 9 kilometers long. In summer heat, the route may be adapted to about 5–6 kilometers.

What is the temperature of the Fuentes de los Baños pools?

The pools are described as maintaining a temperature of about 23°C throughout the year.

What should I bring?

Bring sun hat, swimwear, change of clothes, towel, food, hiking shoes, sunscreen, water, and water shoes.

What ages is it not suitable for?

It is not suitable for children under 14 years, people with mobility impairments, people with heart problems, people with respiratory issues, pregnant women, and people over 65 years.

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