Montanejos turns a city day into mountain air. This tour strings together a guided hike through the Mijares River canyon and then time to soak in Fuentes de los Baños. You get the route handled for you, plus transport so you’re not stuck figuring out inland Valencia.

What I like most is the combo: a proper hike (with viewpoints and guide stories) and then real pool time in mineral water around 23°C. Another strong point is the planning value: you’re not researching stops, and you’re covered with round-trip transfers and skip-the-line entry.

One thing to consider is expectations for warmth. The water is called thermal, but it’s not like a hot tub, and in some seasons it can feel chilly after the hike, especially if you tend to run cold.

Key things to know before you go

• A guided hike first (around 4 hours), then four hours at Fuentes de los Baños to cool off.
• Skip-the-line access to Fuentes de los Baños so you lose less time to waiting.
• Mineral pools around 23°C year-round—still can feel cool depending on weather and where you swim.
• Coach pickup from central spots like Torres de Serranos or the Hola Trip office area.
• Group size up to 53 means it can feel busy at the pools and the hike can move at a faster pace.

From Valencia to Montanejos: the coach ride that sets the tone

This is a full-day outing, roughly 8 hours total when you count travel to and from Valencia. The good news: transport is included, and it’s on an air-conditioned coach. That matters because Montanejos is not an on-your-own kind of place; with this setup you just show up, meet the group, and follow the plan.

Your pickup options are two easy-to-find meeting points:

• Torres de Serranos bus stop (in front of MYR Hotel). Pickup is 10 minutes before the start time.
• Hola Trip office at C/ Ramon Llull 21 (in front of a purple office). Pickup is 10 minutes after the start time.

The guide meets you on the main road with an HOLA TRIP badge, so you’re not hunting around. Do note that hotel pickup/drop-off isn’t included, so you’ll need to get yourself to one of those two spots.

A practical tip from experience shared by others: the bus air conditioning can be powerful. Bring something light you can throw on. It’s an easy way to stay comfortable without turning your day into a cold-weather mission.

The Montanejos hike: viewpoints, canyon views, and guide storytelling

The hike portion is about 4 hours and it’s built around mountain paths above the turquoise stretch of the Mijares River. You’re not walking in a flat corridor. Expect rocky areas, pine forests, and cliffside views that open up over deep canyons shaping this valley. On a clear day, it’s the kind of walking where you keep stopping because the next viewpoint looks better than the last.

The day’s route includes panoramic viewpoints where you can take photos of the Arenoso Reservoir and the surrounding peaks of the Sierra de Espadán Natural Park. The guide also fills in context as you go, sharing stories and practical facts about the area’s geology, plants, and wildlife—plus the legend tied to Montanejos’ fame for healing waters (the Moorish Queen’s Baths story).

Depending on the season, you might see things like:

• waterfalls
• wildflowers
• birds soaring above the cliffs

A recurring theme: this hike is scenic, but it’s not a stroll for everyone. People describe it as challenging in places and fast-moving at times, so pace matters. If you’re the type who likes long photo stops and slow walking, you may want to plan mentally for a busier schedule than a private trek.

Also keep your senses open for surprises. Some guides have taken groups through impressive off-route moments like a cave walk, and there are reports of additional fun stops along the way (for example, water features near the end of the day). Those details vary by day and conditions, but they’re part of why a guided day feels more alive than self-guided hiking.

Fuentes de los Baños: mineral pools, realistic temperature, and how to enjoy them

After the hike you get about 4 hours at Fuente de los Baños de Montanejos. This is the main relaxation block, and it’s why most people choose this day trip. The pools are naturally fed and stay around 23°C year-round, thanks to mineral composition.

That said, you should pack your expectations correctly. A bunch of folks report the water feels cool rather than comfortably warm, especially once you’ve worked up a sweat and you’re stepping in after the hike. Some people even say the water can feel closer to the cooler end in practice. The best way to think about it: this is mineral water in a stunning setting, not a hot tub.

What makes the pool time enjoyable is the setting. You’re in an area with cliffs and greenery, and the water sits in a river-like layout where you can:

• float and relax
• sit on rocks and soak your feet
• lie along the shore and enjoy the mountain views
• take a short riverside walk if you want more movement

The “thermal” part is real, but it’s still nature. Conditions change. Some days the swimming area may look cloudier or different from the photos, and groups sometimes get guided to a clearer swimming spot when the look of the pools varies. That’s part of the deal with outdoor water.

One very practical note: bring toilet paper. People mention that the first bathroom stop does not have any. Small thing, big comfort.

Food and drinks are not included, but there may be a small restaurant or bar on site at some times. Still, it’s not guaranteed to be open every day—one person ran into a closure for refurbishment—so don’t count on buying everything last minute. Better move: bring what you need for the day (water, snacks if you like), and treat any on-site options as a bonus.

Guides and group size: where the day shines, and where it can feel rushed

This tour runs with a tour guide, and the guide quality is a big part of the appeal. Names that come up often in group experiences include Arturo, Taoufik, Tofiq, Alejandro, JF, Filip, Paco, Nouha, and Italo and Nico. Across these reports, guides are described as funny, energetic, and able to turn the hike into something more than just footsteps and photos.

At the same time, your day is shaped by the group. Maximum group size is listed at 53 people, and that can mean:

• the hike pace can be faster than you’d pick for yourself
• sharing stops might feel brief if you walk slower
• the pools can be busy at peak times

If you’re a confident hiker who doesn’t need to linger for every viewpoint, you’ll likely find the schedule keeps the day moving in a good way. If you’re the type who wants a slow, contemplative walk and lots of time for pictures, you might feel pushed.

There’s also the “comfort level” factor. People sometimes mention clothing and foot needs for the hike, including chafing issues for some. If you know your legs get irritated on longer walks, wear good socks and consider anti-chafe in advance.

What you need to handle: food, water, clothes, and your stuff

Even though this is a guided day, you’ll still manage your basics. Here’s what the tour includes and what it doesn’t:

Included:

• round-trip transfers in an air-conditioned coach
• a guided hiking route in Montanejos
• skip-the-line access to Fuentes de los Baños
• a tour guide

Not included:

• food and drinks

So you’ll want a simple plan:

• bring enough water for the hike portion
• pack snacks if you like eating between activities
• bring a swimsuit and a towel for the pool time (and dry clothes for afterward)

For footwear, hiking shoes are smart. The terrain can be uneven, rocky, and slippery near water. Reviews also point out this isn’t a flat, easy walk the whole time, so proper grip helps.

And think about your belongings. One practical concern that comes up is that you can’t stash your things in the bus during the hike. That means you’ll carry what you’ll need for both parts of the day. A small day bag with sunscreen, water, a snack, and a change of clothes can save you from last-minute stress.

Heat also matters. Inland Valencia can get hot, and some people advise being prepared for that. Sunscreen, a hat, and taking your time where you can will make the hike far more pleasant.

Price and value: is $59.26 really a fair deal?

At $59.26 per person, you’re paying for a lot more than a ticket to a pool. Your money covers:

• round-trip coach transport
• a guided hike route with a guide
• skip-the-line access to Fuentes de los Baños

On paper, that can be good value if you want a ready-made day with minimal planning and you like having someone handle routing and timing. It also helps if you don’t want to wrestle with inland transport schedules.

But value depends on why you’re going. If your main goal is hot water you can soak in comfortably for hours, this is the wrong tool for the job. The pool temperature is around 23°C year-round, and many reports describe it as refreshing or cool rather than warm.

If your goal is a mix of active hiking plus a natural swim break in a dramatic canyon setting, it can be a strong deal. The hike portion and the guide-led viewpoints are a big part of what you’re buying, not just access to water.

Who this fits best (and who should skip)

This tour is listed for moderate physical fitness and it’s not allowed for:

• people under 14
• people over 65
• people with mobility impairments

So it’s aimed at people who can handle a rugged hike and a longer day out of Valencia. People also mention pace can be brisk, so you’ll enjoy it more if you don’t need long stops to take it slow.

This day trip is a good match if you:

• want an outdoors break from the city
• like guided storytelling about geology, plants, and local legends
• can handle cool-to-refreshing water after exercise
• prefer an organized plan with transport handled

It’s less ideal if you:

• mainly want warm, therapeutic soaking like a spa experience
• need a small-group, slow-paced hike
• get uncomfortable with crowds, since the maximum group size is up to 53

Should you book the Montanejos hiking tour and thermal pools?

I’d book it if you want a straightforward inland day that blends views, walking, and a natural swim without planning or transport headaches. The best versions of this day happen when you arrive ready for the water to feel cool and the hike to keep moving.

If you’re counting on hot pools, you’ll be happier choosing a different kind of water-focused experience. If you’re okay with mineral pools at around 23°C, and you’ll enjoy the mountains whether the water feels chilly or just refreshing, this is the kind of day that can become a trip highlight.

FAQ

FAQ

How long is the tour in total from Valencia?

The experience is about 8 hours total, including the transportation time from and back to Valencia.

What does the tour include?

It includes round-trip transfers by air-conditioned coach, a guided hiking route in Montanejos, skip-the-line access to Fuentes de los Baños, and a tour guide.

Are food and drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks and water if you want them during the day.

How long do we hike and how long do we swim?

The hike is about 4 hours and the pool time at Fuentes de los Baños is about 4 hours.

How warm are the thermal pools?

The pools are described as maintaining a constant temperature of around 23°C all year long.

Where do I meet the guide?

You can meet at either Torres de Serranos (in front of MYR Hotel) or the Hola Trip office at C/ Ramon Llull 21 (in front of a purple office). The guide arrives with the bus and uses an HOLA TRIP badge.

What time is pickup?

At Torres de Serranos, pickup is 10 minutes before the start time. At the Hola Trip office, pickup is 10 minutes after the start time.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, it’s offered in English.

Is this tour suitable for everyone physically?

It’s for people with moderate physical fitness. It’s not allowed for people with mobility impairments.

Are there age limits?

Yes. It’s not allowed for people under 14 or over 65.

What group size should I expect?

This tour has a maximum of 53 travelers.

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