Montanejos makes Valencia feel far away. This day trip gives you a guided hike with big river-and-canyon views, then hands you a long stretch of thermal pool time to reset. I like that you do not have to plan the route or figure out transport on your own.

Two things I’m especially into: the transport is included, so the day stays simple from the first pickup, and the thermal pools are built into the schedule with skip-the-line access. It’s a great mix of moving time outdoors and relaxing time where you can just float.

One thing to think about: the pools are described as around 23°C all year, but in real life they can still feel chilly after a hike and in cooler seasons. Also, the hiking pace can be brisk if you like lots of stops for photos.

What stands out on this Montanejos day trip

• Guided hiking route through pine forests, cliffs, and scenic viewpoints above the Mijares River
• Fuentes de los Baños stop with skip-the-line entry and a long 4-hour soak window
• Real local storytelling, including geology and the legend tied to the Moorish Queen’s Baths
• Coach transport from Valencia with air-conditioning (bring a layer; it can feel strong)
• A day plan that works well even if you do not want to research inland Valencia

Getting out of Valencia: coach comfort and pickup timing

This is built as a straight, one-day outing: you board an air-conditioned coach in Valencia, then return the same way. The total duration is about 8 hours, and that includes the time spent on the road both directions, so it is not a quick half-day.

You can start from one of two pickup points. At Torres de Serranos, the bus pickup is scheduled 10 minutes before the start time, right by the MYR Hotel area. At the Hola Trip office (C/ Ramon Llull 21), pickup is 10 minutes after the start time, and you should look for the guide with a HOLA TRIP badge on the main road.

Practical note from the road: some people find the coach air-conditioning very strong. I’d bring a light hoody or layer even in warm months, so you do not feel stiff for the hike.

Montanejos hike: Mijares River views, Sierra viewpoints, and cave surprises

The hike portion is about 4 hours, and it’s the core reason to do this trip. You follow your guide along mountain paths above the turquoise waters of the Mijares River, with stops at panoramic lookouts where you can take photos and soak in the big inland views.

Along the way, you spend time around dramatic features shaped by the valley: canyon-style drops, rocky edges, and scenery tied to the Sierra de Espadán Natural Park area. You’ll also get viewpoint time to admire the Arenoso Reservoir and the surrounding peaks. In the right season, the route can include seasonal treats like waterfalls, wildflowers, and birds overhead—so you’re not walking through the same view every minute.

What I love here is that the hike is not just steps and silence. Guides share stories about geology, plants, and wildlife, plus the legend connected to the Moorish Queen’s Baths—the reason Montanejos became known for its healing waters. It gives the scenery a little context, so you feel like you’re moving through a place with meaning, not just scenery.

Pace matters. The route is described as suitable for moderate physical fitness, but some hikers report it can feel challenging, and the pace can be fast. If you like a slow walk with frequent picture breaks, plan to speak up early—your guide can often help you find the right rhythm for the group.

One more thing to be aware of: the hike can include extra moments like a walk through a cave area. Several guides (including Arturo and Filip in past groups) have been credited for taking people to cave spots, so expect some off-the-main-path variety rather than a totally straight route.

Fuentes de los Baños thermal pools: 4 hours to float, soak, and cool down

After the hike, you get a full 4 hours at Fuente de los Baños de Montanejos. This is where the day shifts from effort to relaxation.

The pools are described as maintaining a constant temperature of about 23°C all year, thanks to mineral composition. That matters because you’re not waiting for weather to make the water usable—the water temperature is meant to stay stable across seasons.

Now, reality check: a lot of people feel the pools are not truly warm, especially right after exertion. Even when the temperature is around that 23°C mark, it can still feel cool once you’re tired, sweaty, or it’s breezy. If you get cold easily, treat this as an invigorating dip, not a cozy soak like a hotel hot tub.

How you’ll enjoy the time:

• You can swim or float at the river/pool area.
• You can sit by the rocks, soak your feet, or just lie in the shallow zones.
• If you want a little movement, you might find short riverside walks or quiet spots along the bend.

Water conditions can vary. Some groups have reported cloudy pools at first and then a shift to clearer water elsewhere during the stop. If the area looks different than the photos you’ve seen, it usually comes down to seasonal conditions and water clarity.

Bring your essentials for pool time. I strongly recommend toilet paper, because some people report the first bathroom stop may not have any. Also, consider bringing a small bag plan—several hikers suggest you should carry what you’ll need, since you should not count on stashing everything away during the hike.

The guides: humor, history, and how names show up in real groups

A big part of why this trip gets high marks is the people running it. Guides are described as enthusiastic and funny, with a focus on keeping energy up while also explaining the place.

I’ve seen the names Arturo and Taoufik tied to great group vibes—Arturo in particular gets credit for humor and for adding an extra cave moment. Alejandro shows up as energetic and helpful, and Paco and Nouha have been mentioned for making the day feel rewarding, especially the payoff swim at the end.

For a feel of the tone: people talk about guides sharing info without making it dull, and keeping attention even when the group includes older hikers. One group praised how the leaders paid extra attention to participants around age 53, which is a good sign that the day is guided with care, not just a headcount-and-go approach.

That said, group size can affect the experience. The tour caps at 53 travelers, and larger groups can mean a faster pace and busier pools at the end. If you hate crowds, go in with your expectations set that this is a popular Montanejos outing.

Food, drinks, and the reality of spending a full day outdoors

Food and drinks are not included, and that’s a big practical detail. You’ll hike for about 4 hours, then you’ll spend another 4 hours in the pools, so plan on eating on your own.

Some people mention there may be a small snack option on-site, but it may not always be open for every visit. For that reason, I’d treat this as a bring-your-own day:

• Pack snacks that won’t melt in your bag.
• Bring enough water for the hike.
• If you’re prone to chafing, pack something protective or wear clothing that reduces friction.

Also remember: this day is outdoors in inland Valencia conditions. Heat can make even a moderate hike feel tougher, and several people recommend being ready for very warm weather.

Cost and value: what you’re actually paying for at $59.26

At about $59.26 per person, you’re not just paying for two locations—you’re paying for the glue that holds the day together: transport, a guided route, and organized access to the pools.

What’s included:

• Round-trip transfers in an air-conditioned coach
• A guided hiking route
• Skip-the-line access to Fuentes de los Baños
• A tour guide

What’s not included:

• Food and drinks

So the value question comes down to this: if you want a hassle-free day where someone handles the route plan and transport, this can be a solid deal. If you already know how you’ll get there, and you’d rather set your own hiking speed and pool timing, you could DIY it for less in some situations—but you’d be trading the planning work for your own navigation.

In my view, this price makes the most sense when you’re short on time in Valencia, you don’t want to figure out inland logistics, or you prefer a guide to explain the area’s geology and stories as you walk.

What to pack so the day feels good, not just doable

This is an outdoors day: you’ll walk, you’ll get hot, and then you’ll cool off in moving water. Pack for all three phases.

My go-to checklist for this kind of day:

• Hiking shoes with grip (paths can be rocky)
• Swimsuit plus something to change into at the pools
• Sun protection: sunscreen and a hat
• A light layer/hoody for the coach air-conditioning
• Toilet paper (seriously—some spots may not have it)
• Plenty of water and a few snacks since food is not included
• Anti-chafe help if you’re prone to thigh rubbing (one solo hiker had a rough chafing day)

Also, keep your expectations realistic: the pools are naturally fed and can be cool for some people. A quick-dry towel helps you feel comfortable once you exit the water.

Who should book (and who should skip this one)

This tour fits best if you:

• Want a guided hike plus thermal pool time without arranging transport
• Like scenery with viewpoints and short storytelling stops
• Are okay with a group schedule and a cap of up to 53 travelers
• Can handle a hike of moderate intensity and pace

It may not be the best match if:

• You require mobility accessibility support, since it’s not allowed for people with mobility impairments
• You’re outside the age range (not allowed under 14 or over 65)
• You hate crowds or you need a slower, more individual hiking pace
• You expect very warm water like a spa (the water is described around 23°C, and some people still feel it’s chilly)

If you’re traveling with friends and you can enjoy the day even when the water feels cooler than you hoped, this is a great way to see inland Valencia beyond the coast.

Should you book the Montanejos Hiking Tour & Thermal Pools?

I’d book this if your priority is a smooth, organized day trip: transport from Valencia, a guided hiking route with viewpoint stops, then enough time to actually enjoy the pools without rushing. The thermal pools stop is long enough that it feels like a true reward, not a quick photo stop.

I would not book it if warm water comfort is your top goal. The water is described around 23°C, and multiple people note it can feel cold right after the hike. Go in prepared, and you’ll likely come away feeling like the day delivered.

If you want, tell me your travel month and your hiking comfort level (easy stroll vs. regular hiking). I’ll help you decide how to pack and whether this pace should work for you.

FAQ

How long is the Montanejos Hiking Tour & Thermal Pools from Valencia?

The tour is about 8 hours total, and that includes transportation time from and back to Valencia.

Where are the pickup points in Valencia?

You can be picked up at Torres de Serranos (bus stop in front of MYR Hotel) or at the Hola Trip office (C/ Ramon Llull 21, in front of the purple office).

What time should I arrive at the pickup spot?

At Torres de Serranos, you should be there 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. At the Hola Trip office, pickup is 10 minutes after the starting time, so arrive around then and look for the guide with the HOLA TRIP badge.

How much time do I spend hiking versus in the thermal pools?

You’ll hike for about 4 hours in Montanejos, then you’ll have about 4 hours of free time at Fuente de los Baños de Montanejos.

Is the thermal pool admission included?

Yes. You get skip-the-line access to Fuentes de los Baños, and the thermal pools admission is included.

Are food and drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are not included, so you’ll need to plan your own snacks and water.

What fitness level is required?

The tour is for people with a moderate physical fitness level. It is also not allowed for people with mobility impairments, and ages must be between 14 and 65.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, the tour is offered in English.

How large is the group?

The tour has a maximum of 53 travelers.

What if the tour is canceled due to weather or too few travelers?

It requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. If the minimum number of travelers isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

Can I get a full refund if I cancel?

Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time. If you cancel less than 24 hours before, the amount you paid will not be refunded.