A day tour in Montanejos hot springs.

If you’re considering a day trip from Valencia to unwind in nature’s thermal baths, the Montanejos hot springs tour might catch your eye. We haven’t experienced it ourselves, but based on reviews, itinerary details, and overall feedback, it seems like a solid choice for those craving a relaxed escape into natural beauty.

What we really like about this experience is its blend of scenic locations—especially the Fuente de los Banos and the stunning Salto de la Novia waterfall—and the fact that the tour is designed to give you ample time to enjoy each spot. The guide, Juan Carlos, is frequently praised for his friendliness and local knowledge, adding a personal touch to the day.

One thing to keep in mind is that, as with many group tours, the experience can vary depending on the guide and the group dynamics. Some reviews highlight issues like a guide not showing up or limited guidance during the trip, so it’s worth considering whether you’re comfortable with a more flexible, informal setup.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who appreciate nature, like guided stories and tips, and are ready to spend a full day exploring outdoor spots. If you’re looking for a laid-back, scenic outing with the chance to soak in thermal waters and see waterfalls, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Natural Hot Springs & Scenic Waterfalls: You’ll visit the famous Montanejos hot springs and the impressive Girlfriend waterfall, both offering relaxing baths and stunning views.
• Experienced Guide: Many reviews praise Juan Carlos for his friendliness and knowledge, which can really enhance the experience.
• Well-Paced Itinerary: The schedule offers enough time at each stop to relax, swim, and take photos without feeling rushed.
• Includes Tickets & Transfers: The tour covers transportation and entry fees, so you can focus on enjoying the day without extra hassle.
• Food Not Included: While the entry to hot springs is covered, meals are on you, so plan accordingly.
• Group Size is Small: With a maximum of 8 travelers, this feels intimate, but it also means punctuality is important.

Setting the Scene: What the Tour Looks Like

The day kicks off early at 9:00 am from Valencia, where you’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle heading toward Montanejos. The drive itself, about an hour and a half, is a good opportunity to get a feel for the landscape and chat with your fellow travelers if you like. Once there, the tour moves quickly to the first stop, the Fuente de los Banos, which is the highlight for many.

Montanejos & Fuente de los Banos

The main draw here is the natural thermal springs. Bathing in these warm waters is not only soothing but also a chance to connect with nature on a primal level. The springs are free to access, which is a definite plus, especially given that the price for the entire tour is just over $100 per person. That fee also includes the entry tickets, so you’re not shelling out extra once you’re there.

One reviewer, Lilly, called it a “Perfect Day Trip,” emphasizing the friendly guide and the experience’s overall quality. Emma highlighted how Juan Carlos’s local knowledge made all the difference, pointing out the best spots to swim and take in the scenery. The environment here is described as paradisiacal—an ideal setting to unwind and perhaps even take some memorable photos.

The Girlfriend Waterfall (Salto de la Novia)

Next, the tour heads to the Girlfriend waterfall, which is more than 30 meters high. Here, you’ll get to see a breathtaking cascade and, if you’re feeling adventurous, take a dip in the river. The hike from Montanejos to the waterfall takes about an hour, followed by another hour to enjoy the area. The experience is described as peaceful and visually stunning, perfect for nature lovers or anyone craving a break from city life.

Gavin mentioned that the views are “great” and that the guide’s local tips made the experience even better. Emma also appreciated the personal touch Juan Carlos brought, making the visit memorable.

Return to Valencia

After some leisure time at the waterfall, you’ll return to Valencia, arriving back around 6 pm. The drive back is smooth, and you’ll have plenty of time to reflect on the day.

What to Expect and Consider

Transport & Comfort: The journey is made in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a relief during warmer months. The group is small, capped at 8 travelers, so it feels intimate but also requires punctuality for departure and arrival times.

Timing: You’ll start early, at 9 am, and spend approximately 8 hours on the tour. That includes driving, time at each site, and meals. The tour schedule is packed but manageable, giving enough time to enjoy each attraction without feeling hurried.

Food & Dining: The tour includes admission to the hot springs, but food is not included. There are options to eat at a restaurant near the springs, giving you some flexibility to choose what and when to eat.

Guide & Experience: Many reviews highlight the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, making the trip more engaging. However, there are a few comments about inconsistent guidance or guide absence, so if you’re someone who relies heavily on a guide for directions and stories, you might want to keep expectations flexible.

Group Size & Punctuality: Since the maximum group size is 8, this feels more personalized than large bus tours. But it also means being there on time is crucial—if you’re late, you might miss the departure.

The Value in Context

For around $102, this tour offers a full day of nature, relaxation, and scenic beauty. The inclusion of tickets and transport adds to its convenience, making it a decent value for travelers wanting a stress-free experience. The chance to bathe in warm springs and see notable waterfalls is a strong selling point.

While it’s not a luxury tour, it delivers what it promises—an outdoor adventure with friendly guides, time to unwind, and some truly beautiful spots. If you’re someone who prioritizes small groups, authentic natural experiences, and straightforward logistics, this tour ticks those boxes.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you love spending time outdoors, enjoy scenic water features, and want a guided day out without too much fuss. It’s perfect for travelers staying in Valencia who want to escape the city, relax in thermal waters, and see waterfalls without planning every detail.

It’s also well-suited for those who value small-group experiences and appreciate knowledgeable guides who add a personal touch. However, if you prefer a very structured, guided tour with lots of commentary, or if you need flexibility in food options, you might want to consider other options or prepare accordingly.

FAQs About the Montanejos Hot Springs Tour

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
The tour involves outdoor activities like swimming in hot springs and hiking to waterfalls, so it can be suitable for families with children who are comfortable with walking and outdoor environments. However, the itinerary and physical activity level should be considered.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, tickets to the hot springs and waterfall, and the guide’s services. Food is not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy meals at the springs.

How long is the drive from Valencia to Montanejos?
The ride takes about an hour and a half each way, making it manageable for a full-day trip.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any specific times I need to be aware of?
Yes, the tour starts at 9:00 am from Valencia, and punctuality is important to stay on schedule and make the most of the day.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, and snacks. Comfortable shoes for walking and hiking are recommended.

Final Thoughts

This Montanejos hot springs tour offers a great way to connect with nature, enjoy tranquil thermal waters, and see beautiful waterfalls without too much hassle. The small group size and knowledgeable guide can make the experience more personal and memorable. While the guidance might vary, most travelers find the day relaxing, scenic, and worth the price.

If you’re after a day of soaking in warm waters and exploring stunning outdoor spots, and don’t mind the possibility of minor hiccups, this tour stands as a solid option. It’s best suited for curious travelers who want a balanced mix of guided info, scenic beauty, and leisure.

For those who enjoy nature escapes with a touch of guided expertise, this trip to Montanejos could be just what you need for a rejuvenating break from city life.