From Valencia: Montanejos Thermal Spring & Girlfriend Waterfall

If you want a day trip that mixes real water time with mountain views, this Valencia-to-Montanejos outing is a strong pick. You’ll soak in thermal baths in Montanejos, then head to Salto de la Novia to see a dramatic waterfall and, in warm months, take a dip nearby.

I like that the Fuente de los Baños thermal water sits at a steady 25°C (77°F) year round, so you’re not playing guessing games with comfort. I also like the guide factor, because this tour runs with friendly, energetic local hosts who keep the day organized and talk about Valencia in a human way, with names like Ivan and Miguel popping up often. One consideration: the trip includes time outdoors where closed-toe shoes matter, because the short walk sections and the waterfall area can get slippery.

Key things that make this day trip work

• Thermal baths at a steady 25°C year round, so you can plan your swim without timing the weather.
• Salto de la Novia is not thermal, which means you get a different kind of water day, cooler and more “waterfall day” than hot-spring day.
• Maximum 24 travelers, which helps keep the group feeling manageable.
• Local guides in English, often with a fun, chatty style that still feels safety-first.
• Tickets are bundled, plus you get an air-conditioned vehicle for the driving legs.
• Water shoes and proper trainers pay off, based on repeated advice from past guests.

The 8-hour rhythm from Valencia: start early, then stay out in the good light

This is an all-in-one outing that runs about 8 hours total, starting at 9:00 am. You meet at Av. de Suècia, 27, El Pla del Real (near Valencia), and you return to the same point at the end. The schedule is built around travel time between locations, then concentrated blocks where you can actually do something, like swim or take photos.

That pacing is part of the value. You’re not just “viewing” a destination from a bus window. You’re set up to enjoy Montanejos as a thermal-bathing place, then shift gears to the waterfall experience, then roll back into Valencia before the evening stretches.

Between stops, you ride in an air-conditioned vehicle. That matters in Spain’s hotter months, when the drive can feel long even if it’s not.

Montanejos thermal baths at Fuente de los Baños: why 25°C is a big deal

The first real star moment lands at Fuente de los Baños de Montanejos, where you get about 2 hours of thermal time. The water temperature is 25°C (77°F) all year, which is huge for comfort. Even if the air is cool or warm, you can usually count on the water feeling steady, not random.

This is the part of the day where I’d expect you to slow down. You’re not racing through. You’ll have time to bathe and take in the setting, and you can treat it like a mini retreat within the trip. Past guests also point out practical details here: changing and getting settled is part of the experience, and having a simple plan for towels, phones, and footwear makes it easier.

Two small notes to keep your expectations right:

• The thermal water is comfortable, but it can still feel cooler at the edges when you first step in, especially in shoulder seasons.
• The walking surfaces can involve rocks and slick spots, so the “just bring sandals” plan often gets painful fast.

If you want the thermal experience to feel easy and relaxing, show up with water shoes or footwear that handles wet stone well.

Lunch in Montanejos: a short break, plan around what’s included

After the thermal baths, you’ll have a 30-minute lunch window in the Montanejos area. Here’s the honest approach: the tour details list lunch as not included, but the day still includes that break for eating. That means you should treat lunch as a “buy what you want” moment unless your booking confirmation specifically says otherwise.

This stop is short on purpose. The tour’s main payoff is the water time at both locations, so the plan doesn’t stretch into a long sit-down lunch.

What I’d do in your shoes:

• If you’re picky about food or timing, check what’s available before you’re hungry.
• If you’re traveling with kids, treat this as your moment to grab something quick and then recharge for the waterfall leg.

Salto de la Novia (Girlfriend Waterfall): the big view, then swim time in summer

Next you head to Salto de la Novia, the Girlfriend Waterfall area. You’ll spend time there in two pieces, with a travel leg into the region and then around 1.5 hours to see the waterfall. Admission is included for this part, and the vibe shifts from hot-spring calm to waterfall “stand closer and feel the spray” energy.

One key expectation: the waterfall area is not thermal. In warmer months, you can swim in summer conditions, but it’s a separate experience from the Montanejos baths. Think “natural swimming spot” instead of “soak in warm water.”

Photo time is built into the stop, and the waterfall is the obvious focal point. If you want the best results, plan for wet ground and water-level angles, not just dry-land selfies.

A practical drawback to watch for: multiple people have called out that the rocks can be slippery around the waterfall. That’s not a reason to skip it, it’s a reason to dress smart. Wear footwear you trust, move slowly, and don’t assume every surface is grippy.

Guides, group size, and that helpful chatty energy

This is one of those tours where the guide does real work, not just announcements. The best feedback you’ll see tied to this day is about guide energy, professional hosting, and the way they help the group bond.

Guides named in the day’s feedback include Ivan, Miguel, Kika/Kiki, Manuel, and Paola alongside the main guide, depending on your departure. The common theme is that you get:

• clear guidance on what to do next,
• a friendly group atmosphere that helps solo travelers feel included,
• and practical attention to safety around water.

The group size is capped at 24 travelers. In practice, that cap matters because smaller groups often mean more time for questions and easier logistics around changing, swimming, and photo moments.

There’s also a communication angle worth noting. Some guides are known to check in ahead of time and keep things smooth on the day. That reduces stress when you’re meeting outside a central hotel zone.

Price and value: what you’re really paying for

At $107.68 per person for about 8 hours, you’re paying for a bundle, not just transportation. The day includes:

• an air-conditioned vehicle,
• a professional local tour guide,
• skip the line through an express security check,
• tickets, plus
• taxes and insurance (including accident insurance).

Here’s how I’d think about value. If you try to DIY this kind of day, the costs and friction usually show up in two places: admission fees and the logistics of getting between a thermal bathing site and a waterfall region with enough time to enjoy both. When tickets and guided timing are handled, you lose less time to “finding the right place” mode.

Also, the thermal bath block is meaningful. Two hours of real bathing time is not a quick stop. That makes the day feel worth it even if the drive legs take a chunk of the morning.

Is it expensive compared to a basic bus ride? Yes. Is it reasonable for a guided water day that includes admissions and insurance? Also yes.

What to pack: your real checklist for thermal water and waterfall rocks

You don’t need a complicated kit, but you do need the right basics. Based on repeated on-the-ground advice from past guests, here’s what matters most:

• Water shoes: mineral springs and waterfall areas can mean slick rocks.
• Closed-toe trainers for any short walk segments: shoes with grip beat flip-flops and Crocs-style footwear.
• A waterproof phone option: at least a waterproof bag or case helps you keep taking photos without stressing.
• A plan for changing: you’ll spend time in swimwear, and having something simple for wet clothes can save your mood.

If you’re traveling in early fall or late September, expect the water to still be nice, but the “cool at the start” factor may show up.

Who should book this Montanejos and Girlfriend Waterfall tour

This tour fits best if you want:

• a day that centers on swimming at two different kinds of water spots,
• a guided day trip that stays organized without feeling rushed,
• and a small-to-medium group experience with English-speaking support.

It’s also a good choice for families, including kids, as long as everyone can handle walking on wet stone and understands basic safety around water.

You might think twice if:

• you don’t like uneven ground,
• you’re hoping for a fully relaxed “sit and watch” day,
• or you’re not willing to wear secure footwear.

Should you book this tour?

I’d book it if you want a classic “Valencia outdoors day” that actually lets you get into the water and see two different natural highlights without the hassle of planning transport and admissions. The best part is the pairing: Montanejos thermal baths for comfort and recovery, then Salto de la Novia for a cooler, more dramatic waterfall moment.

If you’re the type who shows up with the right shoes and a waterproof phone plan, you’ll likely feel like you got your money’s worth fast. And if you rely on the guide, you’ll benefit from their energy and local know-how, which is a big part of why this day trip scores high.

FAQ

What time does this tour start and where do I meet?

It starts at 9:00 am. Your meeting point is Av. de Suècia, 27, El Pla del Real, 46010 València, Valencia, Spain, and the tour ends back at the same meeting point.

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

The duration is about 8 hours.

Is the tour in English?

Yes, it’s offered in English.

What does the itinerary include at Montanejos and at the waterfall?

You’ll spend time at Fuente de los Baños de Montanejos (thermal baths) and then visit Salto de la Novia (Girlfriend Waterfall). Swimming is possible at the waterfall in summer, but it is not thermal there.

Is lunch included?

Lunch is part of the schedule with a 30-minute lunch break, but the tour details state that lunch is not included. Check your confirmation if you want to be sure for your specific booking.

What should I bring for swimming?

Bring water-friendly footwear (water shoes) and plan for wet, possibly slippery areas at the waterfall. A waterproof way to protect your phone can also be helpful.

Is free cancellation available?

Yes. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the experience’s start time.