A thermal pool and a waterfall in one day can sound too good, but Montanejos pulls it off. This trip gets you out of Valencia fast, then delivers warm natural springs and the dramatic Salto de la Novia waterfall, plus a dam viewpoint before you head back.

What I like most is the simple rhythm: swim, eat, then wander with a guide who keeps the day moving without rushing you. I also like the small-group feel and the fact that the water is a steady 25°C year-round in the swimming area. One consideration: the experience leans physical (some walking), and in hot periods the hiking part may get replaced with more time in the water.

Key Points Worth Your Attention

• 25°C thermal water: comfortable for a long soak, even when it’s hot outside
• Salto de la Novia stop: guided walk + time to cool off nearby
• Small-group energy: friendly tour format with guide-led timing
• Lunch included (Apr–Oct): sandwich/tapa, drink, and coffee after swimming
• Summer adjustment: hiking may be canceled for heat/forest-fire risk, with extra pool time

From Valencia to Montanejos: Why This Day Trip Works

This is the kind of outing that fixes what a lot of Valencia day trips miss: you don’t just “see” something. You actually get to use it—first with a swim, then with time by the waterfalls and dam.

The tour starts with pickup at the Mestalla stadium (Av. d’Aragó side facing Aragon Avenue, gate A3). When you meet up, look for the guide wearing a Batwalking shirt. That little detail matters because you’ll want to get settled quickly; the day is planned to feel smooth from the first van ride.

Then you get a straightforward drive out of the city (about 45 minutes). The trip isn’t trying to cram 12 stops into 8 hours. It’s set up so you have real time at each highlight.

Stop 1 at Salto de la Novia: Girlfriend Waterfall and a Summer Swim

Your first real taste of Montanejos is Salto de la Novia—the so-called Girlfriend Waterfall. The schedule includes a guided visit plus a walk that lasts about an hour, with time to look around and take in the setting.

The vibe here is very different from the thermal pool. At the waterfall, you’re more in “watch and wander” mode. In summer, the plan includes a refreshing swim at this stop (so yes, you can start your water time right away).

One practical note: you’ll want comfortable shoes, because even when walking isn’t described as intense, you’ll be moving on uneven ground. Bring swimwear even if you’re not sure you’ll jump in everywhere. It’s easier to change plans when you’re already packed.

Aigües Termals de Montanejos: The 25°C Thermal Pool That Changes Your Day

Now for the main event: Aigües Termals de Montanejos. You’ll get about 2 hours to swim and relax in the thermal swimming area.

The temperature is listed as 25°C (77°F) all year long in the swimming zone. That’s a big deal. In many hot-spring locations, the water can feel either too cold to enjoy or too hot to stay in. Here, it’s designed to be comfortable for lingering—long enough to actually unwind, not just “dip your toe.”

Also, the thermal springs area can feel visually surprising. The water and stone setup has been described as reminiscent of Thailand—meaning it’s not just warm water. It’s a photogenic, curious space that makes you slow down even if you came for relaxation.

Where people get tripped up

Even with a steady temperature, water can feel cooler depending on where you’re floating (for example, some people found the top part warmer than deeper sections). If you’re the type who needs consistent warmth, start slowly: get in, let your body adjust, then settle into a spot you like.

Summer hike swap

After lunch (and/or during the afternoon), the itinerary includes a short hiking trail with views. But in summer, that hiking route may be canceled due to heat risk (and also forest-fire risk). When that happens, the tour spends more time in the water. So your “outdoor time” shifts toward soaking, which can be a good trade on a blazing day.

The Waterfall-to-Pool Timing: How the Day Stays Balanced

A common problem with day trips is that they feel either rushed or too laid-back. This one hits a middle pace.

• You start with the waterfall and a guided walk (about an hour).
• Then you travel to the thermal springs (another about 45 minutes).
• You swim for roughly two hours, then take lunch, then do a light exploration/walk.

That structure matters. You’re not waiting forever for the highlight. And you’re not too tired before the lunch stop.

It also helps that transport is provided by bus or van with air-conditioning, which you’ll appreciate on the ride out and back—especially in warmer months.

Lunch Included (Apr–Oct): Simple, Filling, and Post-Swim Friendly

Lunch is included from April to October. The package lists a meal like one sandwich or tapa, plus a soft drink or beer, and coffee.

This is a “keep it easy” lunch. You’re not sitting through a long formal meal after being in the water. Instead, it’s timed so you can refuel and still have time for the afternoon.

If you’re trying to travel light, this helps. Since the lunch is taken care of, you don’t need to hunt for food near the springs area. And because it’s after swimming, you’ll be grateful for something warm-ish and filling before the final sightseeing stop.

Embalse de Arenós: Dam Views and a Photo Stop With Time to Breathe

After lunch, the tour makes time for Embalse de Arenós. The plan includes a photo stop and a visit of about an hour.

This is your visual “change of scenery” moment. You go from thermal water textures to open-air views over the water behind a dam. It’s also a good moment to stand back, take photos, and stretch out before the return drive to Valencia.

If you like the outdoors but don’t want a full-blown hiking day, this works well. It gives you a nature moment without turning the entire afternoon into a workout.

Guides, Small-Group Feel, and Why You’ll Notice the Details

This tour runs as a friendly group experience, with the day departing with a minimum of 2 people. In practice, that often means the guide can keep the tone personal and the pacing smooth.

Two guide names show up repeatedly in how people describe the day: Miguel and Miguel (another guide), plus mentions of drivers like Borja. What matters more than the name is the style: a lot of the energy on this trip is about keeping you included, answering questions, and making photo moments easy.

You’ll also see how the tour tries to remove friction:

• Water is included.
• There’s mention of skip-the-line access via an express security check.
• The guide helps with the flow of changing areas and where to go next.

Those are small things, but they add up when you’re traveling in swim gear and trying to enjoy the moment instead of managing logistics.

What to Pack for Montanejos: Shoes, Towel, and Heat-Proof Reality

Packing for this trip is mostly about being ready to switch between water time and walking.

Bring:

• Swimwear and a towel
• Comfortable shoes (good traction helps)
• Sunscreen and comfortable clothes for the ride and outdoor stops

If you want a bonus upgrade, consider water shoes. The thermal pool area can include pebbles, and water shoes help you stand and move without constantly worrying about footing. Even if you’re a strong swimmer, good grip makes the whole experience more relaxed.

One more detail: the tour includes restrictions like no smoking in the vehicle and no food or drinks in the vehicle. That’s standard for many day tours, but it’s worth noting so you don’t plan to snack on the bus.

Price and Value: Is $108 a Smart Spend for This Mix?

At $108 per person, the price makes sense only if you value what you get: transport, guide time, swimming access, and a meal in the right season.

Here’s what you’re paying for in practical terms:

• Round-trip transport from Valencia by AC vehicle
• A guide who runs the sequence of stops
• Time at the thermal springs (including the key swimming window)
• A waterfall and dam experience
• Lunch included April–October

When you compare that to the cost of renting a car, buying separate tickets, and paying for lunch near the attractions, the packaged value is pretty strong—especially for people traveling without a car.

If you’re traveling in peak summer, the value often increases because transport and timing become more important. You don’t want to spend your day fighting parking and heat when your schedule is already set up around water and views.

Who Should Book This Montanejos Tour (and Who Should Skip It)

This outing fits best if you want a day outside Valencia that still feels comfortable.

It’s suitable for all ages, which is unusual for a day that includes swimming and walking. That said, there are clear limits:

• Not suitable for wheelchair users
• Not suitable for people with heart problems
• Babies under 1 year aren’t allowed

Also, the hiking portion may be adjusted or canceled in summer due to heat and fire-risk planning. If you prefer a lot of walking, go in cooler months if you can. If you prefer water time, summer can actually be a good match.

Should You Book This Montanejos Thermal Springs and Waterfall Tour?

I’d book it if you want the best kind of day trip: one that mixes relaxation and sightseeing without turning into a full-day hike.

It’s especially worth it when:

• You’re in Valencia and don’t want to figure out transport on your own
• You want a real thermal pool experience with time to actually enjoy it
• You like guided timing (waterfall first, then soaking, then a viewpoint stop)

Skip or reconsider if:

• You can’t handle swimming environments with pebbles or some uneven ground
• You need wheelchair accessibility
• You’re very sensitive to heat and prefer the walking part over water (because summer can swap hiking for extra pool time)

If you’re flexible and you pack correctly, this day gives you a satisfying reset from city life—warm water, waterfall scenery, and a dam view to finish it off.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point in Valencia?

You meet at Mestalla football stadium, on the side facing Aragon Avenue at gate A3.

How long is the tour?

The duration is listed as 8 hours.

What language is the tour guide available in?

The tour guide operates in English, Spanish, and German.

Is lunch included?

Lunch is included from April to October. It’s one sandwich or tapa, plus a soft drink or beer, and coffee.

What is the temperature of the thermal pool water?

The swimming area is listed at 25°C (77°F) all year round.

How many stops are included during the day?

You visit Salto de la Novia, the thermal springs at Aigües Termals de Montanejos, and Embalse de Arenós, plus transport time between them.

Is there swimming at both the waterfall and the thermal springs?

The plan includes swimming in the thermal springs for about 2 hours. A refreshing swim at the waterfall is mentioned for summer months.

Is the hiking part always included?

In summer, the hiking route may be canceled due to high risk of heat stroke, and more time may be spent in the water.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?

No. It is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Is cancellation possible for a refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?

Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen, plus comfortable clothes for walking and the ride.

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