From Valencia: Montanejos Kayak Activity & Natural Pools

If you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of Valencia, this tour offers a fantastic way to spend a day in nature. We’ve come across this experience and found it to be a well-rounded mix of kayaking, swimming, and relaxing in thermal waters. It’s a trip that appeals especially to outdoor enthusiasts and those wanting to unwind in a scenic setting.

What really caught our eye are the calm turquoise waters of the Arenoso Reservoir and the natural thermal pools—both promise a refreshing escape, whether you’re into water sports or simple relaxation. Plus, the small group size and the fact that the activity is suitable for beginners make it accessible and intimate.

However, a consideration is that the water at the pools is not warm, maintaining a steady 23°C due to mineral content, so it’s not exactly a hot spring experience. Also, the itinerary depends on weather conditions, which might lead to cancellations or modifications, so flexible plans are a good idea.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy being active outdoors but don’t want to be pushed too hard. It’s perfect if you’re after a peaceful day surrounded by mountains, with plenty of opportunities to swim and relax. If you’re traveling with children over 16, they’re welcome to join, but it’s not tailored specifically to families with very young kids.

Key Points

• Scenic natural setting: Surrounded by cliffs, pine forests, and mountains.
• Beginner friendly: No kayaking experience needed and safety briefings are provided.
• Relaxing thermal pools: Natural mineral waters with supposedly skin-beneficial properties.
• Flexible activity options: Swimming, relaxing, or trying safe jumps from rocks.
• Small group size: Limited to 12 participants for a more personalized experience.
• Weather-dependent: The schedule may change if weather conditions aren’t ideal.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

If you’re craving a day away from the city, this tour from Valencia promises a bit of everything: gentle adventure, stunning views, and downtime in natural pools. We found that the trip begins early in the morning—meeting at a central point in Valencia—before heading inland through Castellón’s picturesque landscape. The drive itself takes about 1.5 hours, giving you a chance to enjoy the changing scenery.

The Journey to Montanejos

Once you arrive, the first highlight is meeting your certified instructors who will give you all the gear and a quick safety briefing. Don’t worry if you’ve never kayaked before; the activity is designed for beginners. The calm waters of the Arenoso Reservoir are perfect for learning and relaxing, with the backdrop of towering cliffs and pine trees making every paddle stroke feel quite peaceful.

Kayaking Experience

We loved the way the kayak route explored the lake’s hidden corners. The two-hour paddling session offers plenty of opportunities to admire the views and explore small coves. According to reviews, the calm turquoise waters are very inviting, especially when it’s warm enough to dip in. You’re encouraged to swim, relax on the shore, or even take some fun jumps from rock platforms, which many found to be a memorable part of the trip.

Some visitors mentioned that the kayaking is very manageable for beginners, and the safety briefing added reassurance. One reviewer commented, “The instructor was super friendly and made it easy to enjoy the activity even without prior experience.”

The Thermal Pools

After the kayaking, you’ll have around two hours at the natural thermal pools of Montanejos. These pools have a steady temperature of about 23°C thanks to their mineral content. While not warm, many agree that the water’s mineral properties make it a soothing place to swim and sunbathe.

It’s a good spot to unwind and enjoy the scenery; some reviewers mention the crystal-clear waters and tranquil environment. However, because the temperature is consistent and not hot, if you’re expecting a thermal spring experience with steaming waters, you might be slightly disappointed.

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The Return Journey

The return trip is another 1.5 hours by bus, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights. Most people appreciate the smooth logistics and comfortable transportation, which makes the day feel relaxed rather than rushed.

What’s Included and What You Should Bring

The tour provides all necessary equipment for kayaking, along with a safety briefing, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own gear. It’s advisable to bring a sun hat, swimwear, change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, and some food and drinks. Comfortable clothing is recommended, especially since you’ll be spending time outdoors in the sun.

Participants should feel comfortable in water; if you’re uneasy about swimming, this might not be the best fit. Children under 16 are welcome only when accompanied by an adult, and the activity is generally suitable for those who are beginners or casual swimmers.

The Value Proposition

At a price that includes transportation, kayaking, and free time at the pools, the experience offers good value—especially for those wanting a full day immersed in nature without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. Reviews highlight the stunning scenery and peaceful vibe as major draws, making it a popular choice for anyone looking to escape the city for a day.

Some reviews mention the small group size as a plus, providing a more intimate and friendly atmosphere. The language options (English and Spanish) also cater well to international travelers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy light outdoor adventures and want to enjoy beautiful mountain views, calm water activities, and natural thermal waters**. It suits those who are comfortable in water and appreciate a relaxed pace. If you’re traveling with children over 16 or are a beginner kayaker, this is a good match.

It’s less suited for those seeking adrenaline-pumping activities, hot springs, or extensive hiking. The focus here is on gentle exploration and relaxation, making it perfect for nature lovers and curious explorers alike.

Final Thoughts

This tour to Montanejos from Valencia is a well-balanced day trip that combines water-based fun with the chance to relax in natural surroundings. You’ll love the scenic kayaking route that uncovers hidden coves and offers views of towering cliffs. The thermal pools provide a peaceful retreat, especially if you’re after a soothing break amid stunning scenery.

While it’s not a hot spring experience, the mineral waters and tranquil environment still make it worth seeking out. The small group size and friendly guides ensure a comfortable, personalized feel—great for anyone wanting a more relaxed, nature-centered day.

If you’re someone who enjoys gentle adventure and scenic spots, this trip offers a genuine taste of the natural beauty near Valencia. It’s particularly suited for those looking to unwind, appreciate views, and enjoy some light outdoor activity without the pressure of challenging sports.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for children under 16?
Children under 16 can join only if accompanied by an adult, making it suitable for families with older kids or teenagers comfortable in water.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, and some food and drinks. Comfortable clothing is also recommended for the outdoor parts of the day.

How long is the kayaking activity?
The kayaking lasts about 2 hours, giving plenty of time to paddle, explore, and swim in the reservoir.

Will I need prior kayaking experience?
No, the activity is suitable for beginners, and safety equipment along with a briefing is provided.

Is the thermal pool water warm?
No, the pools maintain a steady temperature of around 23°C due to mineral content, so it’s not hot but still quite refreshing.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may be modified or canceled in case of unfavorable weather conditions, so flexibility is key.

This day trip to Montanejos combines adventure, relaxation, and stunning natural scenery—all within easy reach from Valencia. If you’re craving a peaceful, scenic escape with a touch of water fun, it’s definitely worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: