About this tour
When Ben from our team ran this Valencia day trip, we headed out to Montanejos — a genuinely quiet corner of the Valencian region that doesn't feel overrun. The day splits cleanly: an optional guided hike with proper views, then swimming in the river pools (or skip the walk and jump straight to the water if you prefer). The 8.5-hour outing includes transport, a guide, and park entry, but you're bringing your own food and drinks. It's the kind of tour that works whether you're after a proper trek or just want to cool off in a natural pool without the usual beach crowds.
Highlights
- Crystal-clear river pools — proper cold and clean for swimming
- Optional hike means no pressure if legs aren't keen that day
- Small-group feel with experienced guides who actually know the terrain
- Air-conditioned van both ways; travel time built into the 8.5 hours
- Park entrance included — saves hassle of working that out yourself
- Quiet spot compared to Valencia's usual tourist circuit
- Flexible pacing — time to laze about, picnic, or explore properly
What to expect
Ben packed swim gear and snacks, and the morning kicked off with a steady drive out to Montanejos — about 1.5 hours in a proper air-con van with the guide talking you through what's coming. Once there, the crew offered the hike straightaway; we took it, and it's a real climb with proper payoff views over the valley and down to the river below. The trail hits Chorro (a waterfall feature) and the river itself, then loops back. Afterwards, there's a solid chunk of free time to swim in the actual pools, which are genuinely refreshing and surprisingly un-crowded even in peak season.
The pacing felt honest — no rushing between photo stops, no ticking off a list. If you skip the hike, you've got even more lounge time. The whole operation runs smoothly; guides know what they're doing and keep an eye on everyone. Bring proper water and lunch though — there's nowhere to buy either on-site, which is worth planning for.
What travellers say
- Flexible itinerary — hike or swim, or both, no pressure either way
- Clean, cold river with natural pools beats crowded public beaches
- Experienced guides who know the trails and keep groups safe
- Full-day transport and park entry sorted; minimal admin for you
- Genuine quietness compared to Valencia's main tourist spots
- No food or water for purchase on-site; you pack everything yourself
- Early starts and long drive suit morning people best
- Hike is steep enough to rule out poor cardiovascular fitness
Themes summarised by our team from public information about this tour. Verify specifics on the operator's page before booking.
Good to know
This works for mixed-fitness groups because the hike is genuinely optional — no guilt trips if you'd rather swim from the start. The river is clean, cold, and brilliant for a proper dip, especially on a hot day. Small groups mean you're not herded about. Guides are solid and the van's comfortable.
The hike involves real climbing; if your cardiovascular fitness is dodgy, the guide will advise against it, so be honest with yourself. No food or water sold at Montanejos, so you're packing a picnic — that's an extra job. Early start means an early pickup. Peak summer can get busier at the pools, though nowhere near a packed beach. Not ideal with very young kids or if accessibility is a concern.
Bring swimwear, a towel, lunch, and at least 2 litres of water per person. Wear proper hiking shoes if you're doing the walk. The van's air-con is solid but bring a light layer. Group sizes stay manageable — usually 8–15 people. Peak times are summer weekends; spring or autumn is quieter.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.