Historic Bocairent, Covetes del Moros Caves and Pou Clar Pools

Exploring the Historic Bocairent, Covetes del Moros Caves and Pou Clar Pools: An Honest Look

If you’re considering a day trip from Valencia that combines history, nature, and a little adventure, this small-group tour to Bocairent could be just what you’re after. We’ve looked into it, and what stands out the most is how well it balances all those elements—plus, the personalized touch that comes with a small group.

Two things we really like: first, the chance to wander around a charming medieval town and soak in its unique atmosphere, and second, the opportunity to explore ancient caves and stunning mountain scenery on foot. However, a potential consideration is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking and some steep streets—so, a moderate level of fitness is recommended.

This experience feels ideal for those who enjoy a bit of history mixed with nature, and aren’t afraid of a little physical activity. If you’re a curious traveler who loves discovering local stories and scenic spots without crowds, this could be a great pick.

Key Points

• Small Group Setting: Only up to 8 travelers, making it more personal and flexible.
• Balance of Activities: Combines town exploration, caves, swimming, and hiking.
• Good Value: At around $92, including transportation, it offers a lot of variety.
• Expert Guide: Howard’s knowledge and friendly approach get high praise.
• Moderate Physical Activity: Expect walking, some steep streets, and uneven terrain.
• Time Investment: Full-day experience around 8.5 hours, starting at 9 AM.

What the Tour Looks Like: A Deep Dive

Starting Out in Valencia

The day kicks off early, with a pickup from a central Valencia location—Alameda BeersPg. de l’Albereda, 15, El Pla del Real. The coach is air-conditioned, which makes the journey comfortable, especially if the weather turns warm. We loved the way the small group size (a maximum of 8) fosters a relaxed atmosphere, where everyone feels comfortable asking questions and sharing the experience.

Exploring Bocairent’s Charms

Once you arrive in Bocairent, you’ll get around an hour and a half to walk through this hillside town. It’s got a timeless feel, with narrow cobbled streets and old stone buildings that relay stories of centuries past. You’ll also enjoy a quick coffee here—perfect for soaking in the local vibe before heading into the caves.

Visiting the Covetes de los Moros

Next, a guided tour of the Covetes dels Moros, tiny caves inhabited around 700 years ago. These caves are surprisingly small but incredibly evocative—like stepping back in time. The entrance fee is about 3 euros, which isn’t covered in the tour price, so plan for that extra expense.

Many reviews mention how astonishing it is to see these caves and imagine how people lived in such tight spaces. One traveler said, “The caves felt like quite an adventure,” and we agree—it’s a quick but fascinating peek into history. Be aware that the caves require stooping low in some areas, so it’s not ideal if you have mobility issues.

Picnic at Pou Clar

After the caves, it’s time for a picnic at Pou Clar, a stunning rock pool area. This spot offers a natural setting perfect for some downtime and lunch. You’ll want to bring your own picnic, but the beautiful surroundings make it worthwhile. The pools are crystal clear, fringed by rocks and greenery, making it a lovely place to relax and take photos.

Hiking Along Barranco del Tarongers

Post-lunch, the tour takes you on a roughly 6 km, 2-hour hike through Barranco del Tarongers. The trail has a wonderful mix of scenery: in the upper section, it feels alpine with rocky vistas, while the lower part is lush and green, following watermills beside a flowing river. The reviews highlight the “stunning mountain scenery” and “great variety,” which we can confirm makes for an engaging walk.

The trail is described as having good variety, but it’s not a gentle stroll—expect some sections that are a bit steep or uneven. So, pack comfortable shoes and be ready for some physical exertion.

End of the Day

The tour wraps up back at the starting point in Valencia, completing an approximately 8.5-hour adventure packed with history, nature, and physical activity—all in one day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guide: Reviewers like Howard, the guide, consistently receive praise. They mention how his friendly attitude and depth of knowledge elevate the experience, adding context to each stop. “Howard makes everyone feel very comfortable,” someone said, which is a big plus when navigating unfamiliar terrain.

Stunning Scenery & Unique Stops: The combination of medieval town streets, ancient caves, and mountain landscapes makes this tour visually captivating. Many reviewers commented on how beautiful Bocairent and its surroundings are, with one calling it “delightful” and “stunning.”

Good Value for Money: At $92.19 per person, the price includes transport, the guided cave tour, and the scenic hike. The cave entrance fee is additional, but overall, travelers seem happy with what they get for the price, given the variety and personalized experience.

Active Yet Manageable: If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity, you’ll find this tour invigorating but not overwhelming. Reviewers mention the vigorous hiking and sloping streets, so be prepared physically and dress appropriately.

Potential Downsides and Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, it’s worth noting that the tour involves some steep and uneven terrain, especially during the hike and town exploration. If you have mobility concerns or prefer less physical activity, this might not be the ideal option. Also, the caves require stooping low in parts, so it’s not suitable for everyone.

Pricing-wise, the cave entry fee is not included, and at 3 euros, it’s a small add-on but worth considering if you’re on a tight budget. Since lunch is not provided, bringing your own picnic is necessary, so pack accordingly.

Weather can also impact the experience—if the weather turns poor, the outdoor parts could be less enjoyable, but the tour provider does offer full refunds or rescheduling options if the cancellation is due to bad weather.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for curious travelers who enjoy history and outdoor activities. It’s an excellent choice for those who don’t mind a bit of walking and climbing, and who want to see a lesser-known side of Spain away from the busy tourist spots. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who appreciates a variety of experiences, you’ll find this offers a well-rounded day.

It’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues or those not keen on physical activity, but if you’re reasonably fit and love exploring scenic trails and historical sites, this is a rewarding way to spend a day.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle from Valencia.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience runs about 8 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 9:00 am and returning to Valencia.

What should I bring?
Bring a picnic lunch, comfortable walking shoes, and perhaps a hat or sunscreen for outdoor parts.

Are the caves accessible?
The caves involve stooping in some areas, so they’re not suitable for those with mobility issues.

Does the tour involve a lot of walking?
Yes, expect walking through town, cave exploration, and the mountain hike, totaling approximately 6 km.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 8, which keeps the experience intimate and flexible.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically aimed at families, children who are comfortable with walking and climbing might enjoy the adventure. However, note the physical demands.

Wrapping Up

If you’re after a day that blends history, adventure, and natural beauty, this Bocairent tour offers a bucket-list experience in a manageable, friendly package. The small group size means you’ll get more personalized attention, and the guide’s knowledge adds a valuable layer to each stop.

Just be ready for some physical activity, pack your picnic, and prepare to be charmed by the scenic mountain views and ancient caves. It’s a day that truly showcases a different, more rugged side of Spain—perfect for travelers eager to explore beyond the typical sights.