If you want warm water and waterfalls, this day trip delivers. You’ll escape Valencia for the Montanejos thermal springs (25°C all year in the swim area), then keep going to Salto de la Novia for a refreshing water break in the mountains. It’s a mix of easy nature time, a bit of exploring, and guided storytelling that makes the drive more interesting than you’d expect.

What I like most is how the trip actually balances time in the water with time to look around. The other big win is the small-group feel with guides such as Ivan and Miguel (and others guests mentioned like Serena, Kiki, Borja, and Francessca) who keep the day moving without making you feel rushed.

The main consideration is that not every pool feels equally warm, and river mixing can make it cooler than the thermometer sounds—especially if you’re sensitive to cold water or you swim deeper than the very shallow areas.

Key highlights that make this tour worth your time

• Thermal springs at 25°C all year in the swimming area, so you can plan a swim even in winter.
• Salto de la Novia is close enough for a true change of scenery, with time to photograph and swim.
• A local live guide helps you understand what you’re seeing, with stories that can go beyond the water and rocks.
• Comfort + safety provided: air-conditioned transport, accident insurance, and swimming gear such as noodles and life jackets for kids.
• Optional adventure swap: hiking, rafting, or kayaking can replace the waterfall swim if that fits you better.

Montanejos thermal pools: warm water, mineral comfort, real downtime

The day starts with that slow shift from city to canyon. You head out of Valencia by air-conditioned bus or van, and the ride gives you enough time to settle in and get oriented for what’s coming. When you arrive at Aigües Termals de Montanejos, the big idea is simple: you’re here to soak, swim, and let your shoulders finally stop holding up your whole day.

The thermal swim area is kept around 25°C / 77°F year-round, which is genuinely useful. It means you don’t have to play the guessing game of Spain in winter or spring. You can wear your swimsuit, step in, and start relaxing instead of doing a frantic one-minute test like you’re trying to decide if the ocean is a prank.

One reason this feels so good is that the water is described as mineral-rich and geared toward skin and digestive comfort. I wouldn’t treat that as a medical promise, but the experience itself is the point: warm water plus mountain air is a stress reset that doesn’t require effort. Add in the fact that changing facilities are available, and you’re not stuck improvising.

That said, a few guests pointed out a real-world detail you should keep in mind: warmth can vary by spot. Some noted the shallow areas felt warmer, while deeper water or areas mixed with cooler mountain runoff could feel chilly. If you know you’re temperature-sensitive, your best move is to start in the warmer shallows, wait a minute for your body to adjust, and then go exploring only if the water still feels comfortable.

Salto de la Novia: the waterfall swim and the “why am I smiling?” moment

After the thermal stop, the tour shifts to Salto de la Novia, also known as the Girlfriend Waterfall. This is not the same location as the thermal pools, so the change is real: you’re moving from warm-spring relaxation to a more active nature feel.

The structure here is straightforward. You get a photo moment, then time to swim in the waterfall area. For many people, this is where the day turns from calm to playful. One guest even mentioned a slide at the waterfall, which is exactly the kind of simple thrill that makes a scenic day feel like an actual memory.

But here’s the balancing truth: waterfall water can be colder. People described it as chilly, especially when the weather is hot and you expect everything to be warm. That contrast is part of the fun, if you’re prepared. Pack for layers in case you cool off fast, and don’t expect the warmth you felt at the thermal pools.

If you’d rather not do the waterfall swim, you can sometimes choose an option like hiking, rafting, or kayaking during booking that replaces the Girlfriend Waterfall. That’s a great fit if you’re a more active traveler or you simply don’t want cold-water exposure.

How the day runs: driving time, pacing, and what you’ll do at each stop

This is an eight-hour experience, and the pacing is designed around two swimming anchors—thermal pools first, then the waterfall. Between them, you’re not just sitting. You’ll have time to take in views, make the small stop photo moments count, and hear background from your guide.

The drive into Montanejos is about 45 minutes. The first stop gives you about 1.5 hours at Salto de la Novia, which is plenty if you want a mix of swimming and hanging around for photos. Then there’s another 45 minutes to Montanejos thermal springs.

At Aigües Termals de Montanejos, you’ll get a guided component and time to move around. Expect roughly 2 hours tied to the guided tour/hiking part and the main swim time. There’s also a lunch break around 30 minutes. After that, you’re on the road back to Valencia for about 75 minutes, which can feel surprisingly quick if your guide is good at keeping the trip engaging.

One detail I really appreciate about tours like this is that the plan doesn’t treat swimming like a checkbox. You’re given enough time to actually settle into it. Multiple guests also mentioned they never felt rushed at the stops, which matters when your “relaxation mode” depends on time in the water, not just a quick dip.

The guide factor: small-group attention and local stories that land

You can visit a waterfall and thermal pools on your own. The difference here is the guide. A good guide makes the drive feel useful, not wasted, and it can turn random scenery into something you understand.

Guests specifically praised guides such as Ivan and Miguel for being friendly, attentive, and full of stories about local culture and natural resources. Others mentioned high-energy guides like Serena and Francessca, plus support-minded crew members like Kiki and drivers such as Borja. That matters because it signals a consistent goal: keep everyone comfortable and connected, especially in a day that includes water, walking, and timing stops.

If you travel with kids, you’ll also appreciate the way the tour handles gear. Included items include noodles and water toys for children, along with life jackets and even snorkel masks. That reduces friction for families and makes it easier for kids to enjoy the water without you carting a swimming supply list across Spain.

Accessibility-wise, this one isn’t set up for wheelchair users, and it’s not for babies under 1 year. Also, pets aren’t allowed. If that affects you, plan ahead before you book.

Swimming comfort: what to bring so you enjoy the water (not fight it)

This is a swim-focused day, so packing right matters. I’d treat it like a “water day with walking to viewpoints” rather than a museum tour.

Bring:

• Swimwear plus something you can wear afterward
• A towel
• Comfortable shoes (you’ll want grip for rocky areas)
• Sunscreen
• Comfortable clothes for between swims

Also consider:

• Water shoes. Several guests specifically recommended them because there are rocks around the water.

One practical plus: the tour provides safety and swimming support. That can make the experience feel calmer for beginners. You’re also told there’s security and safety on hand, and the tour includes accident insurance, which is reassuring when you’re spending hours around water.

What not to bring:

• No pets
• No smoking in the vehicle
• No drinks or food in the vehicle
• No alcohol or drugs

If you want snacks, plan them for before you board or at the appropriate breaks, not during the drive. It keeps the day flowing and avoids awkward rules at the wrong time.

Value check: is $57 per person a fair deal?

At about $57 per person for a full day (8 hours), the value comes from what you’re actually paying for: transport, a professional local guide, entrance/tickets, and the built-in time structure for swimming.

Here’s what makes that price feel reasonable:

• You get air-conditioned transportation plus private transport from Valencia.
• Your entry is handled, including tickets and express-style access via an express security check.
• You get a live guide doing more than just pointing you toward a pool.
• You’re not buying your own swimming gear for kids; noodles, life jackets, and water toys are included.

What might affect value for you:

• Food isn’t clearly listed as included in the price, even though there is a lunch stop. Guests talked about sandwiches and drink options, and one person noted a gluten-free lunch. Still, if you have strict dietary needs or you’re picky about what counts as lunch, confirm what’s provided when you book.
• You’ll likely spend extra on snacks or drinks unless you’re comfortable with whatever is offered at the stops.

If you want a simple day that combines warm-water recovery with a waterfall swim and guided context, this price tends to make sense. If you’re traveling on a shoestring and you’re comfortable DIYing transport and entry, you could compare costs. But if you’d rather let someone else handle timing and logistics while you focus on soaking and swimming, the value is real.

Weather and water temperature: what to expect in winter vs summer

Thermal water at 25°C is the big promise. Even in winter, that means the swim area stays comfortable enough for most people to enjoy a proper dip.

The waterfall is a different story. Even when it’s warm outside, the water can feel cooler than you expect. A few guests described thermal pools as less hot than they anticipated in some spots, and others mentioned that swimming under the waterfall can be chilly. In hot weather, that cold splash can be refreshing instead of uncomfortable. In cooler weather, you’ll want to limit time if you start shivering.

My practical advice: treat the thermal pools as your warm-up and main relaxation event, and treat the waterfall swim as the “fun challenge.” If you’re not sure how you’ll react, bring your water shoes and plan for shorter stints until you find your comfort zone.

Should you book this Montanejos and Girlfriend Waterfall day trip?

Yes, if you want a one-day plan that hits two big nature goals without complicated logistics. This tour is especially worth booking if you:

• want thermal swimming with year-round comfortable water temps
• enjoy a guided day with local context while you’re outdoors
• like the idea of a small-group vibe, where the guide can help everyone stay on track
• want an easy outing that works for a wide range of ages (it’s designed as a family-friendly day)

Skip or think twice if:

• you need wheelchair-friendly access
• cold-water swimming is a hard no for you (the waterfall water can feel chilly)
• you want a food plan that’s fully guaranteed in advance without any questions

If your idea of a perfect Valencia day includes warm pools, a waterfall swim, and a guide like Ivan or Miguel making the day feel personal, this is one of the better-value ways to do it.

FAQ

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

It runs for about 8 hours.

What is the water temperature at the thermal springs?

The swimming area is kept at about 25°C / 77°F all year round.

Is swimming included, and do I need to bring my own gear?

Swimming time is part of the experience, and you should bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. The tour also provides items like noodles and life jackets for children, and snorkel masks and water toys.

Where do we stop besides the thermal springs?

You’ll also stop at Salto de la Novia for a photo stop and time to swim, and you’ll have time for a lunch break.

What activities are available besides the Girlfriend Waterfall?

When booking, you can choose hiking, rafting, or kayaking as an option that replaces the Girlfriend Waterfall.

What should I bring and avoid for the day?

Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Avoid pets and smoking in the vehicle, and don’t bring food or drinks into the vehicle. Alcohol and drugs are not allowed.