Montanejos

Thermal waters, breathtaking walks and beauty spots. Montanejos is a destination that will feed your soul and give your wellness a boost.

Located in Alto Mijares in the province of Castellón, Montanejos is most famous for its thermal waters. Nevertheless, when you dig a bit deeper into the pretty village’s history, heritage and landscapes, you will discover that there is a lot more to explore. However you like to spend your time, you will find something that you enjoy here. So let’s take a look around, shall we? 

What to see in Montanejos

Our first stop is to a site that will take you back thousands of years to the Neolithic period. Cueva Negra is a cave where the very first settlers decided to seek shelter next to the river Mijares. 

Later, Arab settlers came to the area, establishing organised cultivation, designing the streets of the historic centre and - most importantly - building the castle, a Muslim fort that is one of the sights present-day Montanejos is best known for. Of this fortress you can still see the defence walls, two towers and a cistern. You can also see the remains of the baths from this period. 

In and around Montanejos there are a number of architecturally interesting sites, such as an aqueduct called Puente de San José and a flour mill dating back to the 19th century. A lovely way to get to these points of interest is on foot. 

Indeed, there are many hiking routes for you to enjoy in Montanejos. Let’s start with a trail that will immerse you in the incredible landscapes carved out by the river. Senda de los estrechos y de la Cueva Negra is a circular route that will leave you gasping at the spectacular beauty of the narrow gorge with its sheer rock faces. On the way you will see  

Chorro de Montanejos, an overflow channel from Arenós reservoir that shoots out vast quantities of water at speed. Don’t forget your camera. 

You will also see Montanejos’ connection with the world of rock climbing at Pared de los Miradores. But to get back to hiking routes, Ruta Fluvial, the river walk, will lead you out of the village, past some beautiful Modernist villas before arriving at Fuente de los Baños de Montanejos, a collection of thermal springs. 

This is a beauty spot that will take you aback. Make sure you leave plenty of time to dip into the waters and be embraced by the turquoise waters and walls of the gorge. It’s an experience like no other. Before your visit, however, make sure you check the capacity restrictions at Tourist Info Montanejos. 

Montanejos lends itself to all sorts of outdoor activities. Beyond hiking and rock climbing, you can go canyoning, rafting, kayaking and more. What’s more, in September you can take part in Fiestas Patronales, the village’s festival in honour of Virgen del Rosario. 

Last but by no means least, Montanejos serves the most comforting cuisine. Make sure you try hearty stews such as potaje, olla and gachas, as well as the local olive oil and red pine mushrooms. For dessert you won’t want to miss out on rosigones, albardás, higas, tortas, dulce de membrillo and more. 

Feed your body and mind at the natural pools and spas fed by the thermal waters in Montanejos. And leave feeling fully regenerated.

How to get here:

Take N-234. Take the Jérica exit, go until you reach Caudiel. Take the CV 195 to reach the municipality. From Teruel, take the Barracas exit towards the Arenoso reservoir, driving though CS-V-2131 and CV-20 until getting to Montanejos. Another alternative route is to take N-234, getting off the Rubielos de Mora exit towards Puebla de Arenoso, over-passing the Arenoso reservoir and getting to Montanejos by means of the CV-20. From Castellón, take CV-10 towards Onda. In this municipality, take CV-20 towards Montanejos.