From Valencia: Montanejos Hiking Tour & Thermal Pools

Planning a day away from the buzz of Valencia? This Montanejos hiking and thermal pools tour offers a well-rounded escape into nature. We’ve seen plenty of tours in the region, but what sets this one apart is its combination of guided scenic hikes and relaxing dips in mineral-rich pools. It’s a trip that promises both adventure and downtime, making it appealing whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking to unwind in a beautiful setting.

Two things we genuinely like about this experience: first, the knowledgeable guides who bring the landscape to life with stories and facts; second, the stunning scenery—crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and lush pine forests. One thing to consider, though, is that the hiking is of moderate difficulty, so it’s best suited for those with a decent fitness level. If you’re up for some gentle effort and love nature, this tour might be just your thing.

It’s worth noting that this trip isn’t ideal for very young children or anyone with mobility issues, given the uneven terrain and slopes involved. But if you’re a traveler craving an authentic outdoor experience, a little adventure, and some well-deserved relaxation, this tour offers a rewarding day out of Valencia.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and natural pools make for a memorable day out.
• Guides are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and humor.
• The hiking route includes cave exploration and canyon views, suitable for most with a basic level of fitness.
• Thermal pools are mineral-rich, maintaining a consistent temperature around 23°C.
• The round-trip transportation from Valencia makes logistics easy, with flexible pickup options.
• Value for money is high, with many reviews highlighting the full-day experience’s affordability.
• The tour is best suited for ages 12 to 70, and not recommended for pregnant women or people with certain health issues.
• Reviews consistently mention the fun guides, beautiful landscapes, and the refreshing pools as highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Montanejos: The Perfect Nature Escape

When we think about a trip from Valencia that balances adventure, learning, and relaxation, this Montanejos tour hits many of the right notes. You’re leaving the city behind in the morning, heading inland through Castellón’s rolling hills and mountain landscapes. The drive alone can be quite scenic, setting the tone for a day immersed in nature.

Montanejos is famed for its turquoise river waters and cliff-lined canyons. The town itself is small but packed with natural charm—think mineral-rich thermal pools that keep a steady 23°C year-round, ideal for swimming even in cooler weather. During the tour, you’ll follow a trail along the Mijares River, passing through pine forests and dramatic rock formations. The walk is of moderate difficulty, so good shoes and a bit of stamina are helpful, but nothing too strenuous for most active travelers.

The Guided Hike — What to Expect

Your guide will lead you along scenic trails that offer plenty of opportunities to stop, catch your breath, snap photos, and learn about the local ecosystem and history. The story of the Moorish Queen who allegedly bathed in these waters adds a layer of local legend that adds flavor to the hike. Reviewers often mention how guides like Alejandro, Arturo, Tao, and others make the experience lively, educational, and fun, creating a relaxed atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable.

One traveler shared, “The guides were amazing… I was not as capable as I thought, but I still moved at my own pace and finished the hike happily.” This highlights that the route is inclusive for most fitness levels, as long as you’re prepared and have reasonable stamina. The hike includes sections through canyons and viewpoints over cliffs, so some uneven terrain and slopes are involved. It’s a good idea to bring sturdy sports shoes and water.

Cave Exploration and Hidden Trails

One of the more exciting parts of the hike is the chance to visit a cave. Guides often take travelers on a walk through this cool, dark space, which adds a bit of adventure and mystery. Be warned, the cave is not heated, so it can be chilly, and a flashlight or headlamp is recommended if you want the full experience. Several reviews mention how fun this part is, especially with guides like Arturo and Alex making it entertaining.

The Thermal Pools — The Perfect Finish

After the hike, you’ll have some free time to unwind at the Fuente de los Baños, where the mineral-rich waters are perfect for a refreshing dip. Because the pools maintain a consistent 23°C, they’re suitable for swimming year-round. The setting is peaceful, with turquoise waters against rugged cliffs and lush greenery—an ideal spot to relax and soak in the scenery.

Many travelers comment on how clean and well-maintained the pools are, with some noting the availability of facilities like toilets and changing rooms (though they can get busy). The pools are often quite crowded during peak times, so arriving early or late might give you a more tranquil experience. Bring your own towel, swimwear, and a change of clothes, plus plenty of water and snacks for the day.

More Great Tours Nearby

Transport and Convenience

The trip is designed for ease: you’ll meet your guide at designated pickup points in Valencia, either at Torres de Serranos or the Hola Trip office, and enjoy a comfortable 1.5-hour bus ride inland. The return trip is equally smooth, with the group heading back in the late afternoon. The tour provides skip-the-line tickets and a bilingual guide, ensuring a seamless experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is great for adventure seekers who enjoy mild hikes and exploring caves, as well as nature lovers drawn to stunning landscapes and water features. It’s particularly suited for those aged 12 to 70, with a basic fitness level—so teenagers and active adults will enjoy it most. If you’re pregnant, have mobility issues, or health concerns related to strenuous activity, you might want to skip this one.

Practical Details and Tips

• What to bring: Sun hat, swimwear, change of clothes, towel, food, drinks, sunscreen, sports shoes, and water shoes if you plan to swim or explore the cave.
• Difficulty level: Moderate—expect uneven terrain and some slopes, but not overly challenging.
• Age restrictions: Suitable for ages 12-70; not recommended for children under 14 or those with certain health conditions.
• Weather: The itinerary might change depending on weather or trail conditions, so check the forecast and dress accordingly.
• Cost and value: Many reviews point out the excellent value, as you get a full day of guided hiking, cave exploration, and swimming in natural pools at a reasonable price.

What Travelers Say

The glowing reviews highlight fun guides like Alejandro, Arturo, Tao, and Kate, whose energy and friendliness turn the day into a social, engaging experience. People often mention the amazing scenery—from canyon viewpoints to hidden caves—and the refreshing pools as particular highlights.

One reviewer raved, “The hike was easier than expected, and the pools were very cool and refreshing after the hike.” Another praised the guides’ knowledge and humor, saying, “They went above and beyond to make the experience memorable.” Several travelers also appreciated the value for money, noting that the trip offers a rich experience at a fair price.

There are occasional comments about the pools being busy, especially during peak hours, so strategic timing can enhance your experience. The consistent praise for the guides’ friendliness, safety-consciousness, and humor shines through in the reviews.

The Bottom Line

This Montanejos tour from Valencia offers a well-balanced mix of scenic hiking, cave exploration, and relaxing natural pools. It’s perfect for those who want to connect with nature without extreme exertion, and for travelers looking for an authentic experience outside the city’s hustle.

The guides’ warmth, combined with breathtaking views and the cool, mineral-rich pools, makes for a memorable day. The trip’s affordability and ease of logistics are added bonuses, especially for solo travelers or groups seeking a hassle-free adventure.

If you’re craving fresh mountain air, some light physical activity, and a chance to unwind in thermal waters, this tour is worth considering. Just make sure you’re prepared for uneven terrain, bring your essentials, and wear suitable footwear—then get ready for a day of natural beauty and fun.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation from Valencia is included, with pickup options at Torres de Serranos or the Hola Trip office. The bus ride takes about 1.5 hours each way.

What’s the difficulty level?
The route is of moderate difficulty, involving some uneven terrain and slopes. It’s suitable for most with a basic level of fitness but not recommended for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Can I swim in the thermal pools?
Absolutely. The mineral-rich pools are open for swimming, and the water stays around 23°C all year, making it a perfect spot to relax after the hike.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, change of clothes, sunscreen, sports shoes, water shoes, food, and drinks. A flashlight or headlamp is helpful if exploring the cave.

Are children allowed?
The tour is best suited for ages 12 to 70. It’s not recommended for children under 14, pregnant women, or people with certain health conditions.

How long is the hike?
The guided hike lasts about 3 hours, covering scenic trails, canyon viewpoints, and cave exploration, of moderate difficulty.

What if it rains?
The itinerary may change depending on weather or trail conditions. Always check the forecast beforehand and dress accordingly.

Is the tour value for money?
Yes, many reviews highlight the good value, as it includes guided hikes, cave visits, swimming, and transportation—all in a full day of outdoor fun.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a day of natural wonders, gentle adventure, and relaxation, this Montanejos tour offers a pretty compelling package. It combines the joy of discovering scenic trails with the simple pleasure of soaking in thermal waters—something you’ll likely remember long after your trip. The guides’ enthusiasm and local stories add a personal touch that makes the experience feel special rather than just another tour.

Ideal for active travelers who want a taste of the outdoors without pushing too hard, this trip balances fun and tranquility beautifully. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, part of a group, or traveling with older teens, you’ll find something to love here. Just come prepared, embrace the adventure, and enjoy the refreshing rewards of Montanejos.

Happy hiking and relaxing in the pools!

You can check availability for your dates here: