Visit the Deepest Natural Pool in Valencia – el Pozo Negro

Experience the Depths of Valencia’s Natural Beauty with a Visit to el Pozo Negro

If you’re craving a break from the charming but bustling streets of Valencia, this half-day tour to Sierra de Espadán Natural Park offers a refreshing change of scenery. While the city is famous for its vibrant culture and history, this excursion provides a chance to explore a lush, wild landscape just a short drive away—complete with waterfalls, quiet villages, and, of course, the incredible Pozo Negro, the deepest natural swimming hole in the area.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the convenient private transportation takes away the stress of logistics, allowing you to relax and focus on the outdoors. Second, the guided hike promises stunning views and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters that have been shaped over centuries. Third, the small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a personalized experience—full of insider tips and authentic moments.

A potential consideration? The 3 km walk to the swimming spot might be a bit long for those with limited mobility or looking for a quick visit. Still, many reviewers find the effort worthwhile thanks to the breathtaking scenery and the rewarding swim in Pozo Negro.

This trip is ideal for active travelers, nature lovers, and those eager to discover a quieter, more natural side of Valencia’s surroundings. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a mix of hiking, swimming, and cultural discovery, all wrapped up in a well-organized package.

Good To Know

• Beautiful natural scenery and an opportunity to escape the city
• Swim in the deepest natural pool in Valencia, Pozo Negro
• Seamless logistics with private transport and pickup from your hotel
• Small group size ensures personalized attention
• Accessible for most travelers, with a moderate hike and swimming options
• Excellent value for the quality of outdoor experience and expert guidance

Exploring Sierra de Espadán: A Natural Escape from Valencia

This tour offers a chance to trade the crowded streets of Valencia for the lush, tranquil world of Sierra de Espadán Natural Park. Just a scenic drive away, the park is renowned for its rugged landscapes, waterfalls, and quiet villages, making it a perfect destination for those wanting a genuine nature experience.

The day begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Valencia, which we found to be smooth and reliable. The private transportation helps maximize your time outdoors, and the flexibility of choosing your start time adds to the comfort. Once in the park, we loved that the journey was not just about the destination but also the scenic drive itself, filled with views of rolling hills and olive groves.

The Village Stop: Fuentes de Ayódar

Your first stop is a charming local village, where you can enjoy a coffee before heading into the wild. This break is a nice touch, giving travelers a chance to stretch and soak in the local atmosphere. Fuentes de Ayódar is known for its serene beauty, and many reviews highlight its peaceful vibe.

The Main Event: Pozo Negro

The highlight of the tour is definitely the Pozo Negro, a well-formed, transparent water hole carved out by natural erosion over time. According to visitors, this spot is not only stunning but also highly tranquil, especially during the summer months when it’s a popular refreshment point. One reviewer described it as “an incredible place to cool off,” and noted that they appreciated ample time to swim and relax.

The water here is incredibly clear and welcoming, with many choosing to jump straight in after the moderate 3 km hike. As one reviewer put it, “The swimming hole was a wonderful place to cool off at the end,” which is exactly what many travelers seek in a nature trip.

The Hiking Experience

The hike itself is described as challenging but doable, with many reviewers mentioning that it was “not too hard,” especially with good guides like Dmitri, who many say thought of everything in advance. The walk offers astonishing views and is suitable for most fitness levels, with some noting that it’s a great way to combine light exercise with nature.

Travelers also appreciated the small group size—up to 8 people—which ensures everyone receives personal attention and has room for conversations and shared experiences. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a more intimate outdoor adventure.

Swimming and Relaxing

After the hike, you’ll find plenty of time to swim in the waterholes and near waterfalls, which reviewers consistently describe as amazing and refreshing. Many mention that they appreciated the natural, unspoiled environment, and some even brought their pets along, as the tour is pet-friendly.

One reviewer shared that Dmitri’s organization meant they could just relax and enjoy the moment, rather than worry about logistics. The water is described as crystal clear, and several noted that the swimming spots are genuinely among the best natural summer swimming locations they’ve encountered.

Returning to Valencia

After a few hours exploring, swimming, and enjoying the scenery, the group retraces the route back to Valencia, with many ending the day with a refreshing beer or snack—a nice way to wind down after a full outdoor adventure.

The Practical Details and Value

Priced at $126.88 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the transportation, guided hiking, and exclusive access to natural pools. The small group size and expert guides enhance the experience, making it more personalized and informative.

The duration of 4 to 5 hours strikes a good balance—enough time to explore without feeling rushed. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off removes any hassle of logistics, which travelers consistently praised in reviews.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes private transportation, which is a major plus for comfort and convenience. However, it’s worth noting that lunch is not included, so packing a picnic or snacks is advisable. Many reviewers mentioned bringing their own food and enjoying a quiet lunch near the water.

Accessibility and Group Size

Most travelers can participate, and the maximum group size is just 8, fostering a friendly atmosphere. The moderate hike is manageable for most, though the 3 km walk to Pozo Negro might be a consideration for those with mobility issues or limited stamina.

Authentic Insights from Visitors

Many reviewers from recent trips shared their enthusiasm about the guides — particularly Dmitri — who they praise for being friendly, well-organized, and knowledgeable. One reviewer said, “I could relax, enjoy the walking, and chat with fellow hikers because Dmitri thought about everything in advance,” emphasizing the smooth flow of the day.

Others appreciated the stunning views and the peaceful environment that allowed for genuine relaxation. The waterholes, especially Pozo Negro, received glowing reviews, with visitors describing them as beautiful, natural, and perfect for cooling off.

Some noted the long walk of 3 km as a minor downside, suggesting it could be shortened, but most agreed that the effort was worth the reward.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy light to moderate hiking combined with swimming in natural water bodies. It appeals to those looking for a small-group, personalized adventure away from the crowds, with an emphasis on nature and tranquility.

It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic, scenic spots and don’t mind a bit of walking. Pet owners will be pleased to know the tour is pet-friendly, and families with older children often found it a rewarding day out.

The Sum Up: Why This Tour is Worth Considering

In summary, this half-day trip to Sierra de Espadán with a focus on visiting the deepest natural pool in Valencia offers a fantastic mix of adventure, relaxation, and nature. The expert guides and seamless logistics make it a hassle-free way to explore some of Valencia’s most stunning landscapes without the need for extensive planning.

While it’s not a tour for those seeking luxury or very easy walks, it delivers authentic outdoor fun at a reasonable price. The opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear Pozo Negro and enjoy the surrounding scenery makes it a memorable outing for anyone craving a genuine connection with nature.

If you’re after a balanced, well-organized outdoor experience that combines light hiking, swimming, and cultural touches, this tour ticks all the boxes—and then some.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides private transportation from your hotel in Valencia, making travel easy and comfortable.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, including transfer, hiking, swimming, and downtime.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bringing a picnic lunch or snacks is recommended since lunch isn’t included. Also, bring swimwear, towels, and comfortable shoes for hiking.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers can participate, but the 3 km walk might be tiring for some seniors or young children. It’s best suited for active families or older children used to walking.

Are pets allowed?
Yes, the tour is pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along to enjoy the outdoor adventure.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are small, with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund.

This tour offers a genuine chance to connect with the natural world while enjoying the comfort of a well-organized, intimate experience. Perfect for those seeking a memorable outdoor escape from Valencia’s city buzz.