Valencia: Montanejos Thermal Spring & Girlfriend Waterfall

Planning a day trip from Valencia that combines nature, relaxation, and a touch of adventure? This tour to Montanejos offers just that. It’s highly rated, with a solid 4.8 out of 5 based on over 390 reviews, and it’s clear that many travelers find it a highlight of their trip. We’re here to give an honest, in-depth overview so you can decide if this experience fits what you’re after.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the small group size—only 8 people—means you’ll get personalized attention and a more intimate vibe, perfect if you like your excursions relaxed and friendly. Second, the diverse itinerary offers not just swimming in those inviting thermal waters but also a scenic hike, a visit to a spectacular waterfall, and engaging stories from passionate local guides.

One possible consideration? The tour involves some walking and outdoor exposure, so it’s not ideal if you’re seeking a fully seated, indoor experience. Also, during the summer, the hiking might be canceled due to the heat risk, shifting the focus more onto swimming and relaxing. Still, if you enjoy outdoor adventures and natural beauty, this trip caters to those cravings.

This tour is particularly suited for active travelers who love nature and want a more personal, less crowded experience than typical large-group excursions. It’s great for those who enjoy a good mix of swimming, light hiking, and storytelling, and it’s family-friendly with gear like water toys and snorkels available for children.

Key Points

• Small group size means more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Year-round thermal springs maintain a comfortable temperature, perfect for relaxing dips.
• Varied experiences include scenic hikes, waterfalls, and local stories.
• Professional guides enhance the trip with knowledge and friendly vibes.
• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning makes the journey pleasant.
• Cost-effective value considering the included tickets, guide, and activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Montanejos: Nature, Thermal Springs, and More

This tour is designed to give you a taste of authentic natural beauty just outside Valencia. It’s not just about soaking in warm waters—though that’s undeniably a major highlight—but also about witnessing stunning landscapes, hearing captivating stories, and enjoying a leisurely pace.

The Thermal Springs: Why They Matter

We loved the way the thermal springs look—almost like a scene from Thailand, according to some reviews. They’re rich in minerals, which are said to benefit your skin, liver, and stomach. The water temperature remains steady at about 25°C (77°F) all year, so no matter when you visit, you can expect a comfortable swim. The water looks inviting, and the setting is peaceful, often surrounded by lush greenery.

A significant note from visitors: some mention the top layer being warm but the bottom layers a bit cooler, making for a refreshing but manageable swim. It’s perfect for unwinding muscles after days of sightseeing or just enjoying a tranquil moment in nature.

The Hike and Surprise Spot

After a relaxing soak, the tour includes a 30-minute hike to discover some hidden gems and get your legs moving. The trails are manageable and offer incredible views, leading up to a viewpoint that rewards you with sweeping vistas of the landscape. Our guides are well-versed, sharing stories and local knowledge that add depth to the walk.

In summer, this part of the trip might be shortened or canceled due to high temperatures—so if you’re visiting in the hotter months, be prepared for a more water-focused experience. Even then, the guides ensure you spend plenty of time swimming and relaxing.

Girlfriend Waterfall and Its Unique Charm

Another key highlight is the Girlfriend Waterfall, which is not immediately adjacent to the springs but well worth the trip. Visitors rave about how refreshing it is to swim there, and many describe it as a peaceful, beautiful spot to cool off. One review calls it “literally the highlight of the holiday,” emphasizing how special the natural setting is.

The waterfall area offers varied water toys, snorkel masks, and life jackets—especially appreciated by families or those who want to add some fun to their swim. The scenery is often described as tranquil, with plenty of space to unwind and take photos.

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The Transportation and Timing

Traveling from Valencia, the group departs from a central meeting point (Mestalla stadium) and enjoys private, air-conditioned transport. The journey takes around 45 minutes each way, which is manageable and helps keep travel fatigue at bay. The itinerary is carefully structured, giving enough time at each destination without feeling rushed.

The day lasts about 7-8 hours, with flexibility based on what the group prefers. During peak season, there are options to include a visit to the San Jose Cave if you prefer a more adventurous, underground experience.

Food and Refreshments

In summer, the tour includes a lunch at a local restaurant, which many reviews mention as a tasty and well-organized meal. The guides reserve tables ahead of time, making it easy to unwind after soaking and exploring. While food isn’t included in the base price, the cost is reasonable considering the quality and convenience.

The Guides and Overall Experience

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, like Ivan, Kiki, Miguel, and Serena, for their friendliness, storytelling, and attentiveness. One review notes: “Ivan was super friendly, informative, and very attentive,” highlighting how much having a warm, engaging guide enhances the experience.

Many reviews mention how guides share local stories, making the trip not just scenic but also culturally enriching. They also ensure safety, provide water, and set a fun, inclusive tone that keeps everyone engaged.

Suitability and Practical Considerations

While the tour is family-friendly and provides gear for children, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or babies under 1 year. The terrain involves some walking and outdoor exposure, so wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection, swimwear, towels, and a change of clothes.

The tour runs rain or shine, but summer hikes might be canceled due to fire risk. Keep in mind that the maximum group size of 8 allows for personalized service but also means spots can fill up quickly, so booking early is wise.

Pricing and Value

At $105 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering the included tickets, private transport, insurance, and gear. The personalized approach with a small group and expert guides elevates it beyond typical day trips. Many reviewers feel it’s money well spent for the memories, scenery, and relaxation they get.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys nature, water, and the thrill of discovering lesser-known gems, this trip hits the sweet spot. It’s perfect for active travelers who want a full day of scenic beauty combined with a relaxing soak. The small group setting fosters easy conversations and personal attention, making it particularly suitable for those seeking a more intimate experience.

It’s also excellent if you’re traveling with family or a group of friends who appreciate a mix of adventure and downtime. The guides’ friendly approach and local stories add charm, making it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a genuine connection to the landscape.

However, if you prefer sticking to urban attractions or want a fully indoor, seated experience, this might not be your best fit. The outdoor elements and physical activity might be a bit much if you’re less mobile or looking for a purely leisure-focused day.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour provides noodles, life jackets, snorkel masks, and water toys for children, making it family-friendly. However, young children should be comfortable with outdoor activities and some walking.

How long is the trip from Valencia?
The journey takes about 45 minutes by private, air-conditioned vehicle each way, making it a manageable half-day transfer.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers transport, accident insurance, tickets for the attractions, a professional guide, skip-the-line security, and gear for water activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some peace of mind if your plans shift.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. The tour provides water toys and gear, but you might want your own water shoes for rocky areas.

Is the hike optional?
The 30-minute hike is part of the scheduled activities, but in summer, it might be canceled due to heat risk, with more time allocated to swimming instead.

What happens during the summer?
Hiking routes may be canceled if it’s too hot, but there’s still plenty of swimming and relaxing in the thermal springs and at the waterfall.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded day of natural beauty, relaxation, and friendly guidance. It’s best suited for travelers who want to escape the city and enjoy some outdoor adventure without feeling rushed. The combination of thermal springs, waterfalls, scenic hikes, and storytelling makes it a memorable outing—especially if you value small group intimacy and personalized service.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a water enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful break from sightseeing, this experience is likely to leave you with great stories and a good dose of relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here: