Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
If you’re after a day filled with natural beauty, adventure, and authentic local charm, the Montanejos: Black Lagoon & Healing Pools Nature Tour offers just that. This small-group experience, led by passionate guide Kiu from Dreamtours Valencia, takes you out of the city and into the wild heart of Spain’s Valencian Community. From swimming in mysterious dark waters to marveling at rugged gorges and engineering marvels, this trip promises a memorable blend of scenery, activity, and local stories.
What really stands out for us is the personal touch — Kiu’s local knowledge and enthusiasm make each stop feel special. You’ll love the way he captures moments along the way, creating a relaxed, friendly vibe that feels more like hanging out with a friend than being on a conventional tour. The only thing to consider is that this experience involves walking and swimming, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with some physical activity. Perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, or anyone wanting a genuine glimpse into Spain’s lesser-known natural gems, this tour delivers on both scenery and soul.
Key Points
Authentic Small-Group Experience: Led by a passionate local guide, ensuring personalized attention and insider tips.
Spectacular Natural Sites: Swim in the mysterious Black Lagoon, relax at Montanejos’ healing waters, and explore dramatic gorges.
Active Day Out: Includes walking, swimming, and optional cliff jumping; good for those ready to get their hands dirty.
Breathtaking Views: From canyon vistas to mountain landscapes, every stop offers photo-worthy scenery.
Value for Money: All entry fees, transportation, photos, and gear like watershoes are included, making it a straightforward, hassle-free day.
Ideal for Adventurers: If you enjoy outdoor activities and small-group adventures, this tour ticks all boxes.
Unpacking the Experience: What You Can Expect
The adventure kicks off at 9:00 or 9:30 AM from Torres de Serranos in central Valencia, with a scenic drive into the Sierra de Espadán. The journey itself feels like a mini escape — leaving behind the urban buzz for a landscape that looks straight out of Jurassic Park, with lush greenery, rocky outcrops, and quiet mountain air. Kiu, the guide, is known for his communicative style and local insights, making the trip both informative and fun.
Looking for more options in Montanejos? Here are some other experiences worth considering.
The Black Lagoon: Nature’s Enigma
The tour’s first highlight is the Black Lagoon, an intriguing natural pool whose dark appearance is deceiving. Its deep, shadowy waters owe their hue to the rocky surroundings and impressive depth. Despite the dark look, the water is crystal-clear and spring-fed, inviting guests to swim, explore, or take a daring leap. The reviews emphasize how this spot feels like entering a secret oasis — “crystal-clear, pure, and fed by mountain springs,” as one reviewer noted.
The thrill of the Black Lagoon is amplified by the environment; rocky shadows and surrounding cliffs create a mystical atmosphere. As one guest shared, “Kiu kept us safe and excited, whether we were jumping or just soaking in the views.” It’s an experience that combines natural beauty with an adrenaline rush, perfect for those who love a bit of adventure.
Montanejos: The Healing Waters
Next, the group heads to Montanejos itself — world-renowned for its mineral-rich waters, which have drawn visitors for centuries. The sulfur, zinc, and sulfate content are believed to have therapeutic benefits, especially for skin and overall rejuvenation. You’ll have time to relax in these warm, mineral-laden pools, which are said to carry anti-aging properties. It’s a natural spa day, but with the added thrill of swimming in genuine mountain waters.
The stop also includes a delicious, authentic meal at Mijares Bar Restaurant, where Teresa treats everyone to local flavors. Sharing a relaxed lunch in such a scenic setting is a highlight and a chance to soak up the region’s authentic vibe.
Dramatic Gorges and Epic Views
In the afternoon, the focus shifts to exploring the spectacular landscapes of the Screeching Bird Canyon, carved by the Mijares River. This gorge offers jaw-dropping views of towering cliffs and rugged rock formations. From a designated viewpoint, you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas that make perfect photo moments — and yes, you’ll want your camera ready. The canyon’s raw beauty is what many reviews point out as a standout part of the trip.
The Arenoso Dam: Engineering Meets Nature
The day wraps up with a visit to the impressive Arenoso Dam, a 50-meter deep, 7-kilometer long engineering feat. Standing near the dam, you’ll appreciate how human ingenuity blends with nature’s power — a striking contrast and a fitting end to an adventure-filled day. The views here are particularly stunning, giving you a sense of scale and the grandeur of the landscape.
Return Journey and Reflection
After soaking up the scenery, Kiu’s scenic drive back to Valencia offers one last chance to reflect on the day’s highlights. Many guests report feeling refreshed, inspired, and with plenty of fantastic photos to remember the experience.
Practical Details and Value
The tour is around 9 hours long, making it a full-day adventure that balances activity and relaxation. Transportation is included, with pick-up and drop-off at the central Torres de Serranos, a convenient starting point for travelers staying in Valencia.
All entrance fees are covered, including the pools, gorges, and dam. You’ll receive water shoes and towels, removing the hassle of packing your own gear. Kiu also offers to take hundreds of photos during the day, ensuring you can focus on enjoying the experience without worrying about capturing every moment.
The tour’s small-group structure fosters a relaxed atmosphere, and Kiu’s multilingual skills (English, French, German, Spanish, Luxembourgish) ensure smooth communication. The experience is flexible, with options to skip the physical activities if needed, though most reviewers say the balance of swimming, hiking, and sightseeing is just right.
The cost, when considering the inclusion of all entry fees, gear, transportation, and personalized photos, offers solid value — especially given the uniqueness of the sites visited. Rather than just ticking off a list of sights, this is about genuinely connecting with nature and sharing stories with a knowledgeable guide.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience suits travelers who love outdoor adventures, natural beauty, and small-group settings. It’s a great fit for active individuals, families, or friends looking for a memorable day away from tourist crowds. Keep in mind, because of the walking and water activities, it’s best for those in good health and comfortable with some physical exertion.
If you’re after a relaxed, all-inclusive sightseeing bus tour, this isn’t your match. But if you want to get your hands dirty, swim in mountain pools, and discover hidden gems with a passionate local guide, this is a perfect pick.
Final Thoughts
The Montanejos: Black Lagoon & Healing Pools Nature Tour is one of those experiences that leaves a lasting impression. You’ll leave more than just photos — you’ll carry stories of stunning natural beauty, secret swimming spots, and a sense of adventure. The personal attention from Kiu and the carefully chosen sites make this a standout offering, especially for those seeking an authentic escape into nature.
While it involves some physical activity, it’s accessible enough for most adventure-minded travelers. The value for money is clear, considering all the included gear, entry fees, and personalized service. It’s an invite to break away from the city, connect with raw landscapes, and indulge in the simple pleasure of a day spent outside.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group of friends, this tour offers a genuine taste of Spain’s stunning wild side. Prepare to swim, hike, and marvel — and probably take a lot of photos along the way.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from Torres de Serranos in Valencia is included in the tour price.
What should I bring?
Comfortable closed-toe shoes and clothing suitable for walking and swimming, plus a water bottle. Towels and watershoes are provided.
How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 9 hours, starting around 9:00 or 9:30 AM, depending on the season.
Can I skip the water activities?
While walking is minimal, the tour involves swimming and some hiking. If you’re not comfortable with water or walking, it’s best to communicate with the guide beforehand.
Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and participants should be comfortable with physical activity.
What’s the guide like?
Kiu is known for his passion, local knowledge, and friendly approach, creating a relaxed and engaging atmosphere.
Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, active families with children comfortable swimming and walking should enjoy the day.
Is food included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, but a stop at a local restaurant provides authentic regional flavors.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is this a private tour?
It can be booked as a private or small-group experience, depending on your preference.
To sum it up, the Montanejos tour is a fantastic way to explore some of Spain’s most captivating natural sites, with the added bonus of a guide who truly cares about sharing his love for the region. If you’re craving an active, authentic day in nature, this experience will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.
