Montanejos: Do an Epic Hike and Swim in Thermal Waters

Exploring Montanejos: A hiking and thermal waters adventure from Valencia

This tour promises a full day of outdoor activity, combining challenging hiking with relaxing dips in natural thermal springs. Based in Valencia, it offers a chance to escape the city and experience the rugged beauty of Montanejos, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and mineral-rich waters. With a price around $127 per person, it’s a well-balanced mix of adventure, nature, and comfort.

What really catches our eye is the guided hike through stunning terrain—especially crossing the Maimona ravine—and the highlight: a swim in Fuente de Los Banos, a natural thermal spring surrounded by towering cliffs. The tour’s emphasis on authentic nature experiences and expert guides makes it stand out. The only potential consideration? It’s a full six-hour day, so good shoes and moderate fitness are recommended. This tour is ideal for active travelers who want a taste of authentic Valencian outdoors, with enough challenge to keep it interesting but not overwhelming.

Key Points

• Active adventure in scenic landscapes combining hiking and water activities
• Expert-guided experience with knowledgeable guides enhancing the trip
• Authentic thermal waters in a stunning natural setting for swimming
• Moderate physical effort suitable for travelers with some fitness background
• Includes transport and a coffee stop for a relaxed, well-organized day
• Limited group size (up to 8 people), ensuring a personal touch

An In-Depth Look at the Montanejos Experience

When you think about a day out of the city, this tour hits the mark for those craving nature, a bit of a challenge, and genuine relaxation. From the moment you meet your guide at the Serranos Towers in Valencia, you’re set for a well-paced, enjoyable trip that balances adventure with comfort.

The Journey from Valencia

The tour starts with a scenic drive of about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Valencia, a comfortable window to mentally prepare for what’s ahead. The drive itself offers views of the Valencian landscape, hinting at the rugged terrain and natural beauty of Montanejos. Once there, the first stop is a local bar with a beautiful terrace—a perfect spot for a coffee or tea and some initial chatter with your guide, Dimitri or Peter, both praised for their local knowledge and friendly manner.

The Hiking Itinerary

After coffee, the real adventure begins. You’ll start by walking through Montanejos village, then down toward the Maimona river. The initial part of the hike is gentle, but soon you’ll face the short but invigorating ascent toward La Cueva Negra, one of the region’s largest caves. This cave exploration is accessible via an easy trail, making it a great spot to stretch your legs and soak in the natural surroundings.

The hike then leads downhill back toward the Maimona river, where you’ll explore the canyon—a scene that’s often described as spectacular. The terrain is varied: loose rocks and uneven paths mean good footwear is essential, as one reviewer pointed out, “much of the hike is uphill and the trail is loose rocks.” That said, most agree the effort is worth it for the stunning views and the sense of accomplishment.

Crossing the Maimona Ravine

The highlight for many is the crossing over the Maimona ravine. This part of the trek is often described as exciting and challenging, but generally manageable with guidance. The ravine crossing offers a thrilling perspective of the landscape, with reviewers noting it as “very high and very exciting,” an experience that combines physical activity with a sense of adventure.

The Panoramic Lookout and Lunch

After conquering the ravine, you’ll hike up to a panoramic lookout point. Here, you can catch your breath and enjoy sweeping views of the valley. Many find this a perfect spot to take photos or simply absorb the peaceful scenery. A packed lunch or snack can be enjoyed here, with the landscape offering a natural, peaceful backdrop.

The Thermal Spring: Fuente de Los Banos

The final, and perhaps most relaxing, part of the day is the swim in Fuente de Los Banos. The thermal waters here are naturally heated, creating a rejuvenating experience after the physical exertion of the hike. The water’s mineral content is said to have therapeutic qualities, and the setting—surrounded by cliffs—makes for a truly picturesque swim. Reviewers describe this as “a blast” and “a wonderful natural spot,” emphasizing the value of ending the day with some well-deserved downtime.

Return and Refreshments

After the swim, it’s a short walk back to Montanejos, where you can enjoy a post-hike drink and reflect on the day’s adventures. The return trip to Valencia is smooth, and most find the day to be well-paced and fulfilling.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour offers private transportation, which adds convenience and comfort, especially after a day of activity. The guided hike ensures you’re supported and informed, with guides praised for their knowledge and friendliness. The tour includes coffee/tea stops and a full-day experience of around 6 hours, making it a significant but manageable outing.

However, lunch is not included—you’ll need to bring your own picnic, so packing some snacks or a sandwich is advisable. The tour is ideal for those with moderate fitness, as some uphill stretches and uneven terrain are involved. The small group size (up to 8 travelers) means you’ll receive personalized attention, but this also means booking in advance is wise, given the average booking window of around 33 days.

Highlights from Reviews

• Spectacular views and a genuinely authentic outdoor experience are common praises.
• Knowledgeable guides like Dimitri and Peter elevate the experience, sharing interesting stories and tips.
• Swimmers loved the thermal waters, describing the final stop as “a blast,” and many said the natural setting made it feel special and untouched.
• Some noted that good shoes are essential, especially because of loose rocks and uphill trails, but most considered the effort worthwhile.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for active travelers who enjoy a mix of hiking, stunning scenery, and natural relaxation. If you’re comfortable with some uphill walking and uneven paths, you’ll find this trail manageable and rewarding. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided experiences with local insights, as the guides make the journey informative and enjoyable.

Nature lovers will value the dramatic landscape and the chance to swim in thermal waters, a genuinely local experience. It’s a fantastic way to break free from city life, connect with nature, and enjoy some authentic outdoor fun.

The Sum Up

This Montanejos tour offers a thoughtfully curated balance of adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation. The guided hike through rugged terrain, crossing the Maimona ravine, and reaching viewpoints provide a sense of achievement and stunning visuals, especially for those who love outdoor activities. The thermal waters at Fuente de Los Banos deliver a perfect reward, allowing you to unwind in mineral-rich waters amid dramatic cliffs.

The small-group size and knowledgeable guides make this experience personal and engaging, helping you get the most out of the day. While it requires some physical effort, the experience is well worth it for those seeking an authentic, active day out in Valencian nature.

If you enjoy hiking, scenic views, and natural thermal springs, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s especially suitable for travelers looking for a full-day, guided outdoor adventure that combines physical activity with moments of pure relaxation in a stunning natural setting.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation is provided, making the trip comfortable and stress-free.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 6 hours, including travel, hiking, exploring, and swimming.

What should I bring?
Bring your own lunch for a picnic, and wear good footwear suitable for uneven, rocky terrain.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour recommends a moderate physical fitness level, so it’s best for those comfortable with hiking and some uphill walking.

Are guides experienced?
Yes, guides like Dimitri and Peter are praised for their friendliness, local knowledge, and ability to tailor the experience.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
Good weather is needed for safety and comfort, and the tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, a different date or full refund is offered.

Embark on this scenic adventure to explore Montanejos’s breathtaking landscapes, crossing daring ravines, and soaking in thermal waters—an outdoor experience you’ll remember.