Valencia: Montanejos Hot Springs Tour + Salto De la Novia Waterfall

Montanejos’s thermal pool is the draw, but the day pairs a swim with the striking Salto de la Novia waterfall in Navajas. You get time for both scenery and a soak, without having to arrange transport between these two stops yourself.

I like the contrast between the waterfall visit and the longer stay at Montanejos, where you have more than three hours for a walk, picnic, and swim. I also like that guides such as Maties and Miguel add local context and help keep the day organized.

One point to know before you book: the water is about 25°C, not hot-bath temperature. It can feel chilly outside summer, especially in shaded parts of the gorge, so this trip is a better fit if you enjoy swimming in cool water than if you expect a steamy soak.

• Two very different water stops: See the Salto de la Novia waterfall in Navajas, then swim in Montanejos’s thermal pool.
• A full day outside Valencia: The eight-hour trip includes round-trip van transport and time to walk, take photos, and relax.
• A 25°C pool, not a hot tub: The water stays at this temperature year-round, but cool air and shade can make it feel cold.
• Bring your own picnic: Food and drinks are not included, and you can buy sandwiches and snacks in town before the springs.
• Practical guiding: English- and Spanish-speaking guides include Maties and Miguel; the day also includes comfort breaks and some flexibility for people who prefer not to hike.
• Pack for wet, rocky ground: Water shoes, a towel, swimwear, and a waterproof phone case will make the stops easier.

From Mestalla to the mountains

The meeting point is Gate A3 at Mestalla Stadium, at Av. d’Aragó, 31. From there, you travel by van to the first stop in Navajas. The drive is listed at about 50 minutes, followed by another roughly 50-minute van ride to Montanejos, then about 70 minutes back to Valencia. Allow eight hours for the full day, including visits and time outdoors.

That transport is a big part of the value. Navajas and Montanejos are separate stops, and getting between them on your own takes planning. With the van arranged, you can focus on the scenery and pack for a day out rather than work out transport connections.

The schedule includes comfort breaks along the way. That matters on a day with two substantial outdoor stops, especially if you are carrying swim gear and food. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, so you do not need to arrange a separate return into Valencia.

Navajas and the Salto de la Novia waterfall

The first main stop is in Navajas, where you visit La Cascada del Salto de la Novia. The itinerary allows about 75 minutes for a guided visit, walking, and photos. That gives you a chance to see the waterfall from the designated area and take in the setting without rushing straight back to the van.

The name means Bride’s Leap, and the waterfall is the visual opener for the day. It is a strong contrast with the quieter, longer stretch at Montanejos: here the emphasis is on the waterfall, the viewpoint, and taking photographs. Entrance is included, so you do not need to buy a separate ticket at the site.

The stop also includes Tío Juan waterfall and a lookout point. These are useful additions if you want more than a quick photo stop, though the amount of walking and the exact pace may depend on the group. Wear comfortable shoes with grip. The route is described as more of a walk than a demanding hike, but the ground can be uneven, and the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

You may be able to take in the views without doing every part of the walk. The guide can make room for people who do not fancy the full route, according to the way the day is organized. Still, if you have trouble walking over rough ground, ask the operator about the route before booking rather than assuming the stop is fully accessible.

Montanejos: time for a swim and a picnic

The longest stop is Montanejos, with about three hours and fifteen minutes for a photo stop, walk, picnic, and swim. That is enough time to do more than change, take a quick dip, and leave. You can bring food, sit down for a picnic, walk around, and return to the water if you want.

Entrance to the hot springs is included. The pool’s water is about 25°C throughout the year, which sounds warm until you compare it with a heated indoor pool. In summer, the water may feel refreshing. On a cooler day, or in the shaded part of the gorge, it can feel cold at first and remain a brisk swim for some people.

That temperature is the main expectation to manage. The name hot springs can suggest a steaming bath, but this is not that kind of experience. One person may find the water comfortable after getting used to it, while another may only manage a short dip. If you are going in winter or on a cool day, bring warm, dry clothes for afterward and be realistic about how long you may want to swim.

The scenery is the other reason to make the trip. Montanejos gives you a natural setting for a swim rather than a spa-style visit, and the long stop lets you enjoy it at your own pace. You do not have to spend all the time in the water. A walk, a picnic, and time to look around are part of the plan.

Pack a picnic and shoes for the rocks

Food and drinks are not included, and the tour recommends bringing enough for the day. You can buy sandwiches and snacks in town before heading to the springs, which gives you another option if you do not want to carry everything from Valencia. Food and drinks are not allowed in the vehicle, so plan to keep them packed away for the ride and eat during the stop.

Bring swimwear, a towel, drinking water, and a daypack. Water shoes are especially useful around rocky areas, where bare feet or smooth-soled sandals may be uncomfortable. A waterproof bag helps keep dry clothes and valuables separate from wet gear.

A waterproof phone case is a smart extra if you want pictures or video near the water. The tour allows photos and videos, but a phone that gets soaked can turn a good day into an expensive one. Pack comfortable clothes and shoes as well as swim gear, since the trip combines van travel, walking, and time by the pool.

Leave oversized luggage behind. Smoking indoors, alcohol and drugs, littering, and making fires are not allowed. These rules are straightforward, but they reinforce the practical point: this is an outdoor day trip, not a party bus or a catered excursion.

Guides, pace, and what makes the day work

The guide can shape the day as much as the scenery. Maties and Miguel are among the guides associated with this trip. The strongest parts of the guiding are the local explanations, friendly manner, and ability to keep the day moving while leaving room for photos and time outdoors. If you like a lively guide, Miguel is described as fun and engaging; his jokes may repeat, which is either part of the charm or a cue to save your best one for the ride back.

The trip is guided in English or Spanish. You can ask questions about the places you visit, and the guide can also suggest places to see in Valencia, including restaurants and nightclubs. Treat any discounts as a possible extra rather than the main reason to book; the value here is the day out and the included transport and entries.

There is some accommodation for people who do not want to hike. That is welcome, but do not picture a fully step-free outing: the waterfall area involves walking over rough terrain, and the activity is not suitable for wheelchair users. If mobility is a concern, contact the operator to clarify what you can comfortably do at each stop.

Is $67 good value?

At $67 per person, the price covers round-trip transport from Valencia, entry to the Salto de la Novia waterfall, and entry to the Montanejos thermal waters. It also bundles two separate locations into one day, with a guide and a planned route. If you would otherwise need to arrange transport and pay admission at each stop, that combination can be useful value.

The price does not cover food or drinks, so include those in your budget. You will also need to bring your own swim gear and towel. The tour is not a full-service day out with meals included; it is a guided excursion that handles the transport and access while you bring the picnic essentials.

The value depends on what you want from the water. If you expect a hot spring bath, the 25°C temperature may disappoint. If you are happy with a cool swim in a striking natural setting, plus a waterfall visit and a guide, the price is easier to justify. The long Montanejos stop is a particular plus because it gives you time to do more than make a brief appearance.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later. Check the available start times when booking. Those options can help if your Valencia plans are still taking shape, but they do not change the need to choose a day when you are prepared for outdoor conditions.

Who should book this day trip?

I would choose this trip if I wanted a break from Valencia’s city sights and liked the idea of combining a waterfall, a walk, and a swim in one organized day. It suits people who are comfortable with outdoor terrain, can carry their own food and gear, and do not mind a long van outing.

It is also a good choice if you prefer having a guide handle the route and transport. The stops are distinct enough to keep the day varied, and the generous time at Montanejos gives you room to set your own pace. Couples, friends, and solo visitors who enjoy nature outings may find that mix appealing.

I would think twice if your main goal is a genuinely hot soak, if you dislike cool water, or if rough paths are difficult for you. The pool is thermal, but its 25°C temperature can feel merely cool in winter or shade. For a day built around hot water and spa comfort, this is not the right match.

Book it for the scenery, the convenience, and a possible swim, not for a guaranteed long soak in warm water. Pack thoughtfully, keep your expectations on temperature modest, and you have the makings of a rewarding day beyond Valencia.

FAQ

How long is the tour?

The trip lasts eight hours. Check the available starting times when you book.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at Gate A3 of Mestalla Stadium, at Av. d’Aragó, 31, and returns to the same meeting point.

Is admission included?

Yes. Admission to the Salto de la Novia waterfall and the Montanejos thermal waters is included.

How warm is the Montanejos water?

The water is about 25°C year-round. It may feel cold, especially in cool weather or in shaded parts of the gorge.

Should I bring food and drinks?

Yes. Food and drinks are not included, and the tour recommends bringing enough for the day. You can also buy sandwiches and snacks in town before going to the springs.

What should I bring for swimming?

Bring swimwear, a towel, water shoes, and a waterproof case or bag for your phone and belongings. Comfortable shoes and drinking water are also recommended.