Valencia: Montanejos Hot Spring & Girlfriend Waterfall, food

Introduction: A Refreshing Day Trip from Valencia

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Valencia’s city streets, a day trip to Montanejos offers a perfect blend of relaxation, nature, and a touch of adventure. This guided tour, rated at an impressive 4.8 out of 5 from hundreds of reviews, takes you into the heart of the Valencian Community’s natural beauty, where warm thermal springs and cascading waterfalls make for a memorable outing. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or family, it’s designed to offer authentic experiences and a good dose of sunshine.

Two things I particularly like about this experience are the attentiveness of the guides and the variety of stops packed into a single day. The guides, like Serena, Miguel, and Paula, are praised for their friendliness and deep knowledge—they really elevate the trip. The itinerary’s mix of waterfalls, hot springs, and scenic viewpoints means you get a well-rounded taste of the area’s natural charm.

One possible consideration is the hiking trail, which could be canceled during the hottest months due to heat risk. If you’re not keen on walking or are traveling with very young children or mobility issues, this might be a factor. Still, the tour’s main attraction—the thermal springs—remains accessible and relaxing. Overall, it offers excellent value and a chance to see a different side of Spain beyond the city.

Key points / Takeaways

• Small Groups Enhance the Experience: Limited to 15-27 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Natural Thermal Springs Maintain a constant 25°C/77°F year-round, making them ideal for a relaxing swim regardless of the season.
• Guides Make the Difference: Knowledgeable, friendly guides like Serena and Miguel receive many compliments for their tips, humor, and hospitality.
• Includes Delicious Lunch: The included meal (June-September) adds great value, offering a taste of local cuisine in a relaxed setting.
• Versatile Stops: From the peaceful Girlfriend Waterfall to the scenic Embalse de Arenós, the tour combines water, hiking, and photo opportunities.
• Travel Logistics: Private, air-conditioned transport from Valencia makes the day comfortable and hassle-free—no need to worry about driving or parking.

Exploring Montanejos: An Authentic Nature Escape

The journey begins at the meeting point near the Mestalla football stadium, where you’ll board a comfortable van with air conditioning. The drive to Montanejos takes about 45 minutes, giving you a sense of leaving the city behind and heading into a more tranquil, scenic world. While the itinerary involves some driving between stops, each location offers a chance to breathe in fresh mountain air and enjoy spectacular views.

Girlfriend Waterfall: A Refreshing First Stop

The first highlight is the Girlfriend Waterfall, known locally for its tranquil beauty and crystal-clear waters. It’s not part of the thermal springs but makes a lovely, cooler contrast. Many visitors remark on how peaceful this spot is, perfect for a quick swim and photo ops. From reviews, the guide Serena or Victoria makes sure everyone gets a chance to enjoy it, with plenty of time to relax and dip into the refreshing water.

Montanejos Hot Springs: Warming Up in Nature’s Spa

The main event is Montanejos’s thermal springs, which maintain a steady 25°C/77°F all year, making them perfect for a soothing soak. The springs look like something straight out of Thailand—warm, inviting, and surrounded by lush greenery. You’ll spend about two hours here, enough time to relax muscles, take photos, or just unwind in the water.

Many reviews emphasize that although the water at the very top is warm, the lower parts can be a bit chillier underneath—so bring a towel or water shoes if you’re sensitive. The provided life jackets, snorkel masks, and noodles help everyone feel confident, especially if you’re not an experienced swimmer.

Lunch: A Taste of Local Flavors

After enjoying the springs, everyone reconvenes for a delicious lunch (included June-September). The meal offers a chance to swap stories, savor local dishes, and relax further. Many reviewers mention how surprisingly good the value is, especially since lunch is included in the package—saving you the hassle of finding somewhere local on your own.

Embalse de Arenós & Scenic Walks

Post-lunch, the tour includes a stop at the Embalse de Arenós, where you can snap photos of the reservoir’s tranquil waters and surrounding hills. It’s a peaceful spot that offers a different perspective of the landscape and a chance for a short walk or a quick rest before heading back.

Extra Adventures: Optional Hiking (Weather Permitting)

The tour mentions a 30-minute hiking trail with stunning views—though during high summer, this might be canceled for safety reasons. If it’s on, it’s a gentle walk that lets you appreciate the area’s natural beauty up close. Many reviews note how guides make the experience informative and fun, sharing tips and stories along the way.

Transportation and Group Size: Making Travel Easy

One of the big advantages of this tour is the private, air-conditioned transport from Valencia, which takes away the stress of navigating public buses or driving yourself. The tour departs from a central meeting point near the Mestalla stadium, with clear instructions, and ends back at the same spot.

Group sizes are kept small—limited to 15 participants, which means more personal attention and opportunities for interaction. Many reviewers highlight how their guides, like Miguel, are friendly, knowledgeable, and go out of their way to make everyone comfortable. Miguel, in particular, gets glowing reviews for his energy, humor, and genuine enthusiasm.

Price and Value

While the exact cost isn’t provided here, reviews suggest this tour offers great value for its price, considering the included transportation, guide, all entrance fees, and a substantial lunch. The small group setting enhances the experience, making it feel more like visiting friends than being part of a big bus load.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you love nature, water, and scenic views, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for active travelers who enjoy a little walking alongside relaxing swims. Families with children over 1 year old seem to enjoy it, provided they’re comfortable in water and on their feet.

People who appreciate friendly guides and detailed local insights** will find the guides’ tips and stories enriching. The inclusion of food and water gear makes it more convenient and comfortable—no need to bring your own snorkel or worry about hydration.

However, it’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or heart problems due to the walking involved and the optional hiking. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or babies, consider that the tour might be more physically engaging than a simple sightseeing bus.

Final Thoughts: An Enjoyable Mix of Relaxation and Adventure

This Montanejos day trip offers a genuine chance to see a hidden jewel of the Valencian landscape. The natural hot springs alone make it worthwhile, but the added stops like Girlfriend Waterfall and Embalse de Arenós enrich the experience. The guides’ warmth and local knowledge truly elevate the day, making it more than just a sightseeing outing.

You’ll love the stunning scenery, the warm waters, and the delicious local food—all packaged into a well-organized, small-group tour that feels personal and relaxed. The balance of water-based fun and gentle walking suits most active travelers, and the consistent praise from past participants speaks volumes about the quality of this experience.

If you’re after a memorable day that highlights Spain’s natural beauty beyond the cities, this tour is a strong choice—especially if you want a mix of adventure, relaxation, and good company.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour provides private, air-conditioned transport from Valencia, starting and ending at the same meeting point.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, with the start time depending on availability.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes are recommended. Water is provided, but you can’t eat or drink on the bus.

Is lunch included? Yes, a delicious meal is included from June to September, adding great value and convenience.

Can I participate with children? Yes, the tour is suitable for all ages, but keep in mind the walking and water activities.

What if I don’t like hiking? The hiking trail is optional. During summer, it might be canceled if the heat is too intense, so you’ll have more time in the water instead.

Are the guides knowledgeable? Absolutely. Many reviews highlight guides like Serena, Miguel, and Paula for their helpful tips, stories, and friendly demeanor.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size? Tours start with a minimum of 2 people and are limited to 15-27 participants, ensuring a small, intimate experience.

Whether you want a relaxing soak in warm springs, a scenic waterfall swim, or simply a break from city life, this Montanejos tour offers a well-balanced day of natural beauty and good company. With friendly guides, tasty food, and stunning vistas, it’s a trip that can leave you refreshed and inspired.