Valencia: Montanejos Thermal Spring & Girlfriend Waterfall

Hot spring calm starts just outside Valencia. This day trip pairs 25°C mineral pools at Montanejos with a swim at Salto de la novia, plus a bit of mountain scenery that feels worlds away from the city. It is a simple plan that still manages to feel like you found something special.

I really like the small-group feel and the way the guide keeps the day flowing without rushing you. Guides I’ve seen praised, like Ivan, Miguel, Serena, and Francessca, bring local context during the drive and make sure you get time to actually enjoy both water stops.

One heads-up: even though the swimming zone is listed at 25°C, the water can feel cooler in spots, especially if you stay deeper or visit in winter. Also, this is not set up for wheelchairs, and very small babies are not recommended.

Key highlights you will care about

• 25°C year-round thermal water in the swimming area at Montanejos
• Two swim moments: Girlfriend Waterfall, then Aigües Termals de Montanejos
• Small-group guidance with real-time help, including water and gear support
• Equipment provided for kids and families (noodles, life jackets, snorkel masks, water toys)
• Guided hike time that keeps things active without turning into a long grind
• A natural day rhythm with photo stops, a planned lunch break, and enough time to chill

Valencia to Montanejos, why this day feels like a reset

Montanejos is one of those places that changes your mood fast. In a few hours you swap Valencia streets for rivers, cliffs, and that in-between space where you can hear water and nothing else much. The thermal springs at Aigües Termals de Montanejos are the big draw, and they run around 25°C (77°F) in the swimming area all year.

What makes this tour click is that it does not pretend you only came for hot water. You also get the contrast of a second swim at Girlfriend Waterfall (Salto de la novia), where the temperature is different and the scenery shifts. That push and pull is the whole point: relax, then refresh, then relax again.

And yes, the setting can feel like a summer escape. One common theme in the feedback is how the thermal pools look and feel like a tropical-style spa, even though you’re in Spain’s interior. It’s that “how is this so close?” factor that makes the trip feel like a win.

The drive part matters, and the guides know how to run it

The schedule is built for comfort. From Valencia, you’re looking at about 45 minutes to reach the first stop, then another 45 minutes between major points. The van or bus is air-conditioned, and you get a direct transfer from Valencia rather than figuring out connections.

The guide is not just there to count heads. People consistently praise how guides like Ivan and Miguel manage timing, keep everyone together, and answer questions as the day moves. That matters because the most annoying day trips are the ones where you stand around waiting. Here, the stops are structured so you spend your time in water and views, not in limbo.

If you care about local stories, you’ll probably enjoy the ride. Multiple guides are noted for adding Spanish cultural and historical context along the way, and some days include a stop or explanation tied to the Spanish Civil War era trenches. Even when that specific part is brief, you still get more than just directions.

One small practical detail that shows up in feedback: communication. If you sit near the back, make sure you can hear the guide’s key instructions, or ask a question before the group settles in. The tour moves smoothly, but you’ll enjoy it more if you catch the safety pointers early.

Salto de la novia, the waterfall swim that changes the day

The day’s first big nature moment is Girlfriend Waterfall (Salto de la novia). You get a photo stop and then about 1.5 hours total to enjoy the area, including swimming. This is where the day starts to feel fun and active instead of purely relaxing.

Expect the water to feel cooler than the thermal pools. That is not a flaw, it is the contrast. You’ll likely feel more awake after the waterfall swim, especially if you came from warm Valencia weather. Some people even mention trying a slide feature at the waterfall, so if that is operating when you go, it can be a cheeky bonus.

Here’s the trade-off: the waterfall swim is more exposed and more dependent on river conditions. The path can mean rocks and uneven ground, so you’ll want comfortable shoes and, ideally, water shoes. A towel helps too, because you will want to dry off before the next stop.

Also, the itinerary can shift based on your reservation choices. If you select hiking, rafting, or kayaking, that activity can replace the Girlfriend Waterfall portion. So if you want the classic waterfall swim, make sure you book the version that keeps it in.

Aigües Termals de Montanejos, 25°C comfort with real-world quirks

Then you reach the star: Aigües Termals de Montanejos. This part runs about 2 hours with a mix of photo time, a guided tour, and time to swim and hike in the area. This is the “slow down and let the muscles go” moment.

The big promise is the temperature: 25°C / 77°F in the swimming zone all year. In practice, the experience can vary a bit. A common note is that the water can feel warmer only near the surface and cooler underneath, especially in winter. Another note is that mountain runoff can make the experience feel less like a hot tub and more like a pleasant soak, even when the thermometer says you should be comfortable.

So what should you do? Do what the better advice always is: plan to dip in, acclimate for a few minutes, and then settle in if you like it. If you expect perfectly hot water, you might be disappointed. If you want warm enough to float and enjoy the scenery, you will likely feel happy once you adjust.

What the thermal pools feel like

This is not just soaking in a tank. People describe a gentle, natural feel, including small fish that nibble if you hold still near the edge. That’s oddly calming, like a tiny nature spa add-on.

You’ll also have the basics you need on-site. Reviews mention changing facilities, and the area typically has bathrooms plus a concession stand for snacks or drinks. Bring cash if you like having options, but if you are trying to stick to what’s included, you can still manage the day.

Gear that makes swimming easier

Families especially like the extras. The tour provides things like noodles, life jackets, and snorkel masks, plus water toys for children. That means you can bring a simple swimsuit and spend the time playing instead of worrying about renting gear.

Snorkel masks are not required for your fun, but if you like looking at water movement and fish, it helps. Some guides also provide cold water during the day, which is one of those small services that makes the whole itinerary feel more thoughtful.

Lunch and the timing that keeps you from feeling rushed

After you finish the thermal pools, there’s a lunch stop of about 30 minutes at Montanejos. The schedule is set up so you do not arrive starving or waste time later.

Food details are not fully spelled out as a single menu in the core info, but there are clear signals that lunch is part of the day plan. Several people specifically mention a sandwich and drink-style lunch during the stop, and one note includes gluten-free handling when requested. If you have dietary needs, this is the moment to flag them early to the guide.

Then the trip heads back to Valencia. The return drive is about 75 minutes, and the feedback suggests it passes quickly, especially if you’ve had time to swim and dry off. This is also when you’ll feel how well the day was spaced out: you’re not sprinting from one place to another, you’re cycling between water, views, and downtime.

What to bring so the day stays comfortable (and not annoying)

I’d pack this like a simple swim day, not like a full hiking expedition.

• Swimwear you can actually relax in
• A towel for the thermal stop and waterfall stop
• Sunscreen, because you will be outside for long stretches
• Comfortable shoes, plus water shoes if you have them
• A change of clothes if you like feeling fresh for the ride home

The ground around the waterfall area can include rocks, and you’ll want traction. Even if you feel confident barefoot, the safe bet is water shoes. You’ll walk more than you think, and it is easier when your feet are protected.

Also remember the rules. Pets are not allowed, and no smoking in the vehicle. Food and drinks are not permitted in the vehicle, and alcohol or drugs are not allowed. If you want something to drink, rely on what’s provided or buy it at stop points.

Who this trip suits best, and who should reconsider

This tour is designed for a wide age range, and it’s described as suitable for all ages. That said, it’s still nature-based, with swimming and uneven ground, so your comfort level matters more than your age number.

You should consider it if you want:

• A relaxing thermal soak without planning
• A nature day with two swim settings
• A guided group structure where you do not have to coordinate transport

You might reconsider if:

• You need wheelchair access. This experience is not suitable for wheelchair users.
• You’re traveling with a baby under 1 year, since it is not recommended.

If you dislike cold water, read the tea leaves here. The thermal pools are warm enough for comfort, but the waterfall swim is cooler by nature. The best mindset is to treat it like a contrast experience, warm soak then cooler reset.

Price check: is $57 good value for this kind of day?

At $57 per person for an 8-hour outing, this sits in the “worth it if you actually use what’s included” category. The value is not just transportation. You’re also getting:

• Round-trip private transport from Valencia by air-conditioned vehicle
• A professional local tour guide
• Tickets, plus skip-the-line express security screening
• Accident insurance and safety support
• Included swimming gear for families and kids (noodles, life jackets, snorkel mask, water toys)

If you tried to replicate it on your own, you’d be paying for transport, separate entry arrangements, and your time would get eaten by coordination. Here, the schedule removes that friction. Even the structured timing helps you get both swimming locations in one day.

My practical take: the price makes sense if you will swim at both places and want a guide handling the flow. If you only want one short stop, or if you plan to skip the water elements, you might feel like it’s more than you need.

Should you book this Valencia to Montanejos day trip?

If your ideal day in Valencia includes one warm soak, one refreshing swim, and a guide that keeps the day smooth, book it. The combo of Montanejos thermal springs at about 25°C year-round plus the Girlfriend Waterfall stop is a rare pairing that feels both relaxing and outdoorsy.

I’d especially recommend it if:

• You want an easy day trip with guided structure
• You travel with kids who can use the provided water gear
• You like nature breaks without complicated logistics

Skip it if you:

• Need wheelchair-friendly access
• Want only hot water, with zero cooler-water time
• Are traveling with a baby under 1 year

If you go, go with water shoes and a flexible mindset about temperature. Once you do that, this trip tends to land as one of those “how was this so close?” days.

FAQ

How long is the Valencia to Montanejos thermal springs and Girlfriend Waterfall tour?

The total duration is listed as 8 hours.

What temperature is the thermal spring swimming water?

The water temperature in the swimming area is listed as 25°C (77°F) all year round.

Does the tour include transportation from Valencia?

Yes. It includes private transport from Valencia, using a vehicle with air-conditioning.

What are the main stops during the day?

You’ll visit Girlfriend Waterfall (Salto de la novia) for swimming, then the thermal springs area at Aigües Termals de Montanejos for a guided tour and swimming, plus a lunch stop.

Is lunch included?

Lunch is part of the scheduled time (30 minutes). Specific meal details are not fully defined in the provided info.

What should I bring for the tour?

Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen, plus comfortable clothes.

What languages is the guide available in?

The live tour guide is available in English and Spanish.

Is it suitable for wheelchair users or babies?

It is not suitable for wheelchair users. Babies under 1 year are also not suitable.

Not sure yet? One quick decision rule

If you want two different swim settings in one guided day, this is an easy yes. If you need full accessibility or you hate any cooler-water time, you’ll probably be happier choosing something else.