Cold water first. Warm relief after. This private full-day trip pairs a 3.5-hour hike in pine forests and river canyons with a swim in Montanejos thermal springs at about 25C.

What I really like is the human touch: Kevin, your guide, is punctual, attentive, and sets a pace that keeps you moving without rushing. I also like the way the schedule flows—hike hard enough to feel proud, then cool off and relax in water you actually want to stay in.

One thing to consider: parts of the walk include uneven, gravel tracks where grip matters. If your shoes are slick, you’ll notice it more than you’d like.

Key Highlights You’ll Care About

• Kevin sets a smart pace so most hikers can handle the day without feeling cooked
• A long nature walk: about 3.5 hours through pine forests and canyon paths by a river
• Thermal water at ~25C feels chilly at first, then turns into pure stay-a-bit-longer bliss
• Snorkeling gear is included for your time in the springs
• Private transportation and parking take the stress out of a full day away from Valencia
• You’ll get time for food, with lunch not included in the price, but tapas are an easy option on the day

Setting Off From Valencia at 9:00 and Why Private Matters

You start the day at 9:00am, which is a small detail that helps a lot. Early starts mean the hike feels calmer, and the thermal swim doesn’t turn into a tired slog after a late departure.

This is a private tour, meaning it’s only your group. That matters if you want a slower pace, more questions, or you just hate being stuck behind a crowd. The included air-conditioned vehicle is also a real relief, especially if you’re doing this in warmer months.

Also, you’re not stuck thinking about logistics like parking. Parking fees are covered, so your day stays focused on the hike, the springs, and the scenery.

Montanejos Hike: Pine Forest Paths, River Canyons, and the Pace That Works

The first stop is Montanejos, and you’ll spend about 3.5 hours hiking through pine forests and canyon areas that follow a river. This is the kind of route that feels scenic in the quiet, not just scenic for photos. You keep moving through changing terrain, and the river guideposts the whole walk so it never feels aimless.

Kevin’s style shows here. In the reviews, people praise how he sets a pace that pulls you along steadily. That means you can enjoy the scenery without feeling like you’re running a fitness test. The hikes are described as manageable for moderate to slightly challenging footing, so think: you’ll work, but it’s not a technical mountaineering day.

What the terrain feels like in real life

At points, the trail includes gravel tracks going up and down. One reviewer noted it was manageable overall, but trainers without good grip can make those sections feel sketchy. If you’ve ever slipped on loose stones, you already know what I mean.

So your best move is simple: choose footwear with solid grip. Comfortable shoes with traction are not optional here—they’re the difference between enjoying the day and constantly checking your footing.

How to make the hike easier on yourself

• Bring at least 1 liter of water and a morning snack so you don’t feel tempted to push harder than you should.
• If you’re not sure how your energy will hold, plan to go slower at the start. Kevin adjusts pacing, so take advantage of that.
• Take short pauses when you need them. A quick breath stop beats forcing it, especially on uneven ground.

Fuente de los Baños Thermal Springs: 25C Water That Turns “Nope” Into “One More Minute”

After the hike, you head to Fuente de los Baños de Montanejos, the thermal springs stop. You’ll have about 2 hours here to swim and relax in crystal-clear water around 25C.

Here’s the funny part: it’s common to think the water will be too cold at first. One review put it plainly—don’t get put off by the initial chilliness. Once you’re in and moving around, you usually get past that first shock fast, and then the warmth becomes the whole point.

What to expect from the springs time

This is not just a look-and-leave stop. The idea is water time. Since snorkeling equipment is included, you can use it if you want to float and see more than just your toes. Even if you don’t snorkel, the chance to swim in warm springs after a hike is the payoff of the entire day.

Expect a relaxed pace here. The springs naturally slow you down. The day’s energy shifts from hike-mode to soak-mode, and that contrast is exactly why this tour works so well.

The value of taking the swim

From a “should I really do this?” standpoint, the springs are the emotional anchor of the experience. You’re giving your legs a break after uneven walking, and you’re rewarding yourself with comfort right when you want it most.

If you like active days with a payoff (not just sitting in a bus looking out a window), this is a great match.

Snorkeling Gear Included: The Practical Part People Appreciate

One of the most useful included items is the snorkeling equipment. You don’t have to hunt for gear in Valencia, and you don’t have to worry about whether the mask fits, whether you packed the right stuff, or whether rental spots are open.

This also changes how you use your time at the springs. If you want to try snorkeling, the barrier is lower. If you don’t care, you can still use the included gear when you’re in the mood.

My advice: try it for a few minutes and see if you like it. The springs time is long enough that you don’t need to commit to a full session.

Lunch Plans Without Guesswork: What’s Included, What Isn’t, and What You Can Do

Lunch is not included in the tour price. That said, you do get practical time built into the day, and some people take the opportunity to grab a tapas lunch.

What I recommend depends on your style:

• If you enjoy eating out on the road, plan on a casual tapas-style meal during your breaks.
• If you want control, bring your own snack and plan for a simple lunch option nearby.

Either way, the “bring a morning snack” tip matters. With a hike, water, and then springs time, you’ll feel better if you don’t start the morning totally empty.

The Water Shoot Moment: A Little Extra Worth Staying Present For

One of the more memorable details from the experience is a final look at a remarkable water shoot. It’s the kind of add-on that doesn’t sound like a big deal until you see it and realize why locals and guides keep pointing it out.

The key is attitude. Don’t turn this into a rush-through day. If you keep your eyes up and stay present during the final stop, you’ll probably remember the details more than the clock.

Price and Value: Is $192.04 a Smart Use of a Day?

At $192.04 per person for a 7 to 8 hour private day, you’re paying for convenience and a complete “active + relax” package.

Here’s where the value shows up:

• Private transportation and parking handled for you
• Snorkeling equipment included
• Admission tickets are covered in part (the hike admission is free, and the springs admission is included)
• The hike + thermal swim combination is the whole point, not a random stop list

Where the cost doesn’t cover everything: lunch. You’ll still need to budget for food on the day. But that’s common for tours like this, and it also gives you flexibility to pick what you like—tapas, a lighter meal, or something you bring.

If you’re comparing this to doing everything on your own, the big win is time and stress reduction. You’re not trying to coordinate transport, parking, and timing across two very different parts of the day.

What to Pack and Wear for Gravel Footing and Cold-to-Warm Water

This is one of those tours where packing right makes the day smoother.

Bring:

• At least 1 liter of water
• A morning snack
• A sun hat and sun cream for summer months
• For winter: a top and jacket
• Comfortable footwear with good grip because some parts are uneven

And wear:

• Shoes you’re comfortable walking on gravel in. If you have doubts about traction, trust your doubts.

Quick mental checklist before you go

You’ll spend hours on uneven paths, then you’ll get into water that’s warm overall but may feel cold at first. Dress and gear for both stages, and you’ll enjoy the full arc of the day.

Who This Tour Fits Best (and Who Might Skip It)

This works best for people who want a real nature day outside the city, but still want someone else to handle the moving parts.

It’s a good fit if you:

• Like hiking that’s active but not extreme
• Want a reward at the end that involves real relaxation (not just a photo stop)
• Prefer a private group pace

In the data, most travelers can participate, with a minimum age of 6 and a maximum age of 80. Service animals are allowed too.

If you have very limited mobility or you can’t manage uneven gravel, you might want to think twice. The springs will be great, but the hike is the foundation of the day.

Should You Book This Mountain Hike and Thermal Springs Tour?

I’d book it if you want a full-day experience that feels like a day in the real Spain, not a rushed checklist. The hike through Montanejos pine forests and river canyons gives you the outdoor reset. The thermal springs at about 25C give you the recovery and the joy.

Book it with confidence if you:

• Care about pacing and want a guide like Kevin who pays attention
• Want snorkeling gear included so you can actually use the water time
• Are comfortable dressing for both sun and cooler water moments

I’d hesitate if:

• You struggle with uneven ground and slippery gravel
• You hate the idea of bringing your own lunch plan and snacks

If you’re okay with good shoes and a little effort on the hike, this is the kind of day you’ll remember for both the legs you earned and the water you relaxed in.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?

The start time is 9:00am.

How long is the tour?

The duration is about 7 to 8 hours.

Is lunch included?

No. Lunch is not included.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling (snorkelling) equipment is included.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. It’s listed as a private tour/activity, so only your group participates.

What are the age limits?

The minimum age is 6, and the maximum age is 80.

What should I bring for the hike and springs?

Bring a minimum 1 liter bottle of water and a morning snack, plus comfortable footwear with good grip. For summer, bring a sun hat and sun cream; for winter, bring a top and jacket.