ValenciaMontanejos: Pools+Hike/Raft/Kayak + Novia Waterfall

Thinking about a day trip from Valencia that combines nature, adventure, and relaxation? This Montanejos experience offers just that—an opportunity to escape the city and learn about some of Spain’s most beautiful outdoor spots. Whether you’re after a soothing soak in thermal waters, an adrenaline rush on the river, or scenic hikes, this tour covers all the bases.

What makes this trip stand out is its variety of activities and beautiful landscapes. Plus, the small group size ensures a more personal experience, guided by passionate professionals. On the flip side, keep in mind that some activities require a good level of fitness, and weather can influence what’s possible on the day.

This tour is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of adventure and downtime, and aren’t shy about getting a little sweaty or splashing around. It’s especially suited for active travelers, nature lovers, and anyone who appreciates a well-organized day out with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and genuine relaxation.

Key Points

• Full-day adventure: Combines hiking, water activities, and relaxation in Montanejos.
• Natural thermal pools: Swim year-round in soothing, warm waters.
• Flexible activities: Choose between hiking, kayaking, or rafting—adventures tailored to your interest.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides enhance the experience and ensure safety.
• Beautiful scenery: Stunning mountain views, waterfalls, and pristine rivers everywhere you look.
• Small groups: Limited to 15 participants for a more intimate and personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Breakdown of the Montanejos Day Trip

If you’re looking for a quick escape from Valencia, this tour packs a full day of natural wonders and outdoor fun into roughly 11 hours. Starting in the city, you’ll travel comfortably by bus for about 1.5 hours to Montanejos, a charming village famous for its thermal springs, crystal-clear rivers, and lush mountain surroundings.

The Journey to Montanejos

The trip kicks off at a central meeting point in front of the football stadium (coordinates provided). The bus ride itself is a good chance to get excited about what’s ahead, with scenic views teasing the landscapes you’ll explore. The atmosphere is relaxed, and you’ll likely chat with fellow travelers eager for the adventure.

Exploring Montanejos: The Heart of the Day

Once you arrive, the day is divided based on your chosen activities. The options are hiking, kayaking, or rafting, each offering a different way to experience this natural paradise. If you prefer to relax, you can spend time at the Blue Lagoon—a popular spot for swimming and unwinding in the warm, mineral-rich waters that stay a cozy 25°C (77°F) year-round.

Hiking in the Mountains

The hiking segment is about 2.5 hours and covers roughly 6 km with an elevation gain of 544 meters. It’s described as moderate, meaning you should be in decent shape but don’t need to be a seasoned trekker. The route is a loop, starting and ending at the same point, with plenty of opportunities to soak in panoramic views.

Several reviews praise the guides—“Victor and Daniel were excellent, knowledgeable, and made the trek enjoyable,” one reviewer shares. They’re known for sharing local history and folklore, adding depth to the walk. Expect some uphill stretches and uneven terrain, so proper shoes and sun protection are essential.

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Water Adventures: Kayaking or Rafting

After the hike, you’ll have the option of kayaking or rafting, each lasting about 3 hours. Kayaking is available all year, while rafting runs from May to September. If you choose rafting, you’ll paddle down the Mijares River’s gentle rapids—an accessible adventure suitable for beginners, with equipment provided and no previous experience needed.

Kayaking, meanwhile, offers a chance to paddle across the Arenoso Reservoir, discovering hidden spots and enjoying refreshing dips. Reviewers highlight how fun and scenic these activities are: “Paddle across the calm waters and enjoy a swim,” notes one guest. You’ll need to be comfortable swimming, as some areas are deep and water shoes are recommended.

Relaxation at Fuente de los Baños

Following the water-based activities, you’ll have a couple of hours to relax. The Fuente de los Baños hot springs are the highlight here—soaking in these thermal pools feels like a true treat. The warm waters, surrounded by forest and mountain views, have a soothing effect and are perfect for unwinding after physical exertion.

Reviews like Anna’s confirm the appeal: “Thanks to the excellent attitude, we received more than we could have expected,” she says, emphasizing the friendly guides and well-organized experience.

Scenic Stop at Salto de la Novia

Mid-afternoon, the group heads to Navajas to see the iconic Salto de la Novia waterfall, a majestic 60-meter cascade. It’s a fantastic photo opportunity and a peaceful place to breathe in the fresh air. Most guests find this stop a lovely way to wrap up the outdoor part of the day before heading back to Valencia.

Return Journey

The bus leaves Montanejos around 5:30 pm, arriving back at the starting point in Valencia by 6:30 or 7 pm, depending on traffic. It’s a long but rewarding day, filled with diverse experiences and stunning scenery.

What to Expect: Practical Details

Transportation: Comfortable buses with a friendly atmosphere make the roughly 1.5-hour trip manageable. Small group sizes (limited to 15 people) help maintain a relaxed vibe.

Timing: The day starts early, with departure times varying by schedule, and wraps up in the early evening. Activities are spaced out to give everyone enough time to enjoy each part without feeling rushed.

Activities: You’ll select your preferred adventure (hiking, kayaking, or rafting) when booking. Changing activities afterward isn’t possible, so choose what suits your fitness level and interests best.

What to Bring: Pack comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a towel, change of clothes, water shoes for water activities, and some snacks or drinks. The warm thermal waters make a swimsuit or beachwear essential.

Weather Considerations: Activities like rafting and hiking are subject to weather and river conditions, so keep an eye on the forecast and be flexible if plans shift.

Authentic Feedback From Travelers

Multiple reviews highlight the quality guides—“Daniel was a fun and engaging guide,” and “Victor made us feel safe and gave clear explanations.” Travelers also praise the scenery: “Breathtaking views all around,” and “enjoying free time at the springs was the perfect way to relax.”

The overall consensus is that the value for money is excellent, considering the variety of activities, transportation, and professional guides. Guests often mention how well-organized and friendly the experience is, making it a memorable day out.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves a mix of adventure and tranquility in nature, this trip is a strong pick. It’s ideal for those comfortable with a bit of physical activity, like hiking or paddling, but also seeking downtime in thermal pools.

The trip is suitable for travelers aged 10 and above, with the understanding that water activities require swimming ability and a moderate level of fitness. Those who dislike outdoor activities or have mobility issues might find the hiking and water activities challenging, but they can always relax by the pools or explore the village.

In short, this tour is great for active travelers, outdoor lovers, and curious explorers wanting a comprehensive taste of Montanejos’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning every detail.

FAQ

Do I need to have experience for water activities like kayaking or rafting?
No, you don’t need previous experience. Guides provide all equipment, and the activities are suitable for beginners. Just be comfortable swimming, as some areas are deep.

How long does each activity last?
Each activity—hiking, kayaking, or rafting—lasts about 3 hours, giving enough time to enjoy each without feeling rushed.

Can I relax instead of doing activities?
Absolutely. You can choose to spend your time at the Blue Lagoon and hot springs, enjoying the scenery and tranquility instead of participating in adventure activities.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, towel, change of clothes, water shoes, and some snacks or drinks. Layers are helpful for the mountain hike, and swimwear is a must for the pools.

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, it’s suitable for kids over 10 who are comfortable with water and walking. The activities are moderate and supervised.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Activities may be adjusted or cancelled due to weather or river conditions, but the tour still offers the opportunity to relax at the pools or explore the village.

Wrapping It Up

This Montanejos day trip offers a well-rounded experience that balances adventure with relaxation. The combination of thermal springs, mountain hikes, and water sports makes it a versatile choice for many travelers. The guides are praised for their friendliness and local knowledge, which adds a personal touch to the day.

If you’re after a memorable outdoor escape, enjoy scenic views, and don’t mind some physical activity, this tour makes for a rewarding day out from Valencia. It’s particularly suited to those who appreciate a mix of adrenaline and downtime, with the bonus of seeing some of the most beautiful spots in the Valencian Community.

While it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or pregnant women, most active travelers will find this experience enriching and worth the price. Plus, the positive reviews about the organization and guides suggest you’re in good hands.

This trip is a fantastic way to see Montanejos’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning, and it promises plenty of Instagram-worthy moments and genuine relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here: