Valencia: Montanejos Thermal Springs & Girlfriend Waterfall Day Trip

Summary

Warm springs, village life and waterfall swims near Valencia

You’ll leave Valencia behind for a day of soaking in Montanejos’ warm thermal springs (yes, they’re actually warm all year), sharing laughs with your local guide and tasting simple village food before wandering over to the Girlfriend Waterfall — where you might swim or just listen to the water crash down. It’s one of those days you’ll remember for how it felt more than what you did.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the water to feel that gentle — 25°C all year, but somehow softer than any pool I’ve known. We’d just left Valencia behind in a private shuttle, winding through hills that got greener with every kilometer. Our guide, Marta, told us stories about Montanejos and how locals swear by these thermal springs for everything from sore muscles to heartbreak (she grinned at that). The air smelled faintly like pine and something mineral; not unpleasant, just different.

Getting into the spring took me a second — it’s not hot-tub hot, more like a warm hug if that makes sense. I floated for a while watching sunlight flicker on the rocks. There were a few families chatting in Spanish nearby, and one older man doing slow laps who nodded at me like we were both in on some secret. Afterward, we dried off in the sun before lunch. I can’t remember what the bread was called (Marta tried to teach me), but it was crusty and perfect with olive oil.

The Girlfriend Waterfall was louder than I expected — not so much roaring as always present in your ears, even when you’re looking away. In summer you can swim here too, though today I just dipped my toes in and watched some kids daring each other closer to the spray. The rocks are slick and cold compared to the springs. On the way back to Valencia everyone was quieter; maybe tired or just thinking about that water still clinging to our skin. I know I was.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Montanejos thermal springs and waterfall visit

• Travel from Valencia to Montanejos
• Bathe in thermal springs
• Have lunch
• Travel to Girlfriend Waterfall
• Visit and swim at waterfall
• Return to Valencia

Top questions

How far is Montanejos from Valencia?

Montanejos is reached by private transport from Valencia; exact distance isn’t specified but it’s a day trip.

Can you swim in both the thermal springs and Girlfriend Waterfall?

You can swim in both places during summer; only the thermal springs are warm year-round.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

Yes, lunch is included during the tour.

What’s special about Montanejos thermal springs?

The springs are mineral-rich and stay at 25°C (77ºF) all year round; locals say they’re good for your skin and health.

Is hotel pickup included?

The tour includes pickup by private air-conditioned vehicle from Valencia.

Are tickets or entry fees covered?

All tickets and entry fees are included in the price of the tour.

Is this trip suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Do I need to bring anything special?

No special equipment is required; just bring swimwear if you want to bathe.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from Valencia by private air-conditioned shuttle, entry tickets with skip-the-line access at both Montanejos thermal springs and Girlfriend Waterfall, full insurance coverage including accident insurance, plus a simple lunch before heading back with your local guide.