From Valencia: Excursion to Altea, Guadalest, and entrance to Fuentes del Algar

If you’re in Valencia and craving a day away from the city buzz to see some of the most picturesque spots in the region, this tour promises a well-rounded experience. It combines charming coastal villages, a medieval fortress town, and breathtaking natural waterfalls—all in one package. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed itineraries reveal a thoughtfully curated outing that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and a taste of authentic Valencian scenery.

What makes this trip particularly appealing? Firstly, the variety of sights—from cobbled streets and panoramic viewpoints in Altea to the castle ruins and mountain vistas in Guadalest, and finally the refreshing waterfalls of Fuentes del Algar. Secondly, the expert guidance—a knowledgeable tour guide adds context and insight, enriching your understanding of each location. Thirdly, the value for money—with entrance fees, transportation, and flexible free time, it’s a comprehensive package for travelers eager to explore without the hassle of planning each step.

A potential consideration is the full-day duration—up to 11 hours—which might be a long day for those with limited energy or mobility issues. The trip is best suited for active visitors who enjoy a mix of walking, sightseeing, and outdoor water activities. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a balanced taste of culture, nature, and coastal charm in one seamless experience.

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Key Points

Comprehensive Day Trip covering three key locations on the Costa Blanca.
Expert Guides offer enriching commentary and local insights.
Varied Experiences including coastal strolls, medieval castles, and waterfalls.
Flexible Free Time allows for personal exploration and photo opportunities.
All-Inclusive Entry to Fuentes del Algar with the option to swim.
Transport included making logistics effortless, with pickup and drop-off points in Valencia.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins early in Valencia, with the tour picking you up at either the Torres de Serranos or CEIP Benipeixcar. The bus ride is roughly an hour and 45 minutes, giving you time to settle in and soak up the scenic views en route. The comfort of the coach is a plus, especially considering the long day ahead. With a small group size, guided commentary feels more intimate and engaging, and you’ll appreciate the ability to ask questions or simply enjoy the landscape rolling by.

Looking for more options in Valencia? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

First Stop: Altea, the White Village of the Mediterranean

Arriving in Altea, the charm hits immediately. The guide leads you through the cobbled streets of the old town, where the iconic white houses with colorful balconies beckon perfect photo ops. The views from the viewpoints are stunning—crisp blue waters, lush hills, and a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere. As one reviewer pointed out, “Altea is very pretty,” and it’s easy to see why so many visitors fall for its charm.

You’ll have about 20 minutes guided walking around the old town—enough to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. Then, with around 75 minutes of free time, you can stroll along the beach, browse local craft shops, or sit at a café and enjoy the sea breeze. Many travelers appreciate the balance of guided and free time, making the experience flexible. The guide often shares tips for a good photo spot or a recommended shop for souvenirs.

Guadalest: A Medieval Marvel

Next, the bus journey takes you to Guadalest, renowned as one of Spain’s most beautiful medieval towns. The highlight here is the imposing Castle of San José, perched high above the mountains, offering spectacular panoramic views. A guided 30-minute tour introduces you to the town’s history and architecture, giving context to the narrow streets and stone buildings.

Afterward, there’s approximately 1.5 hours to explore independently. Travelers often mention visiting local museums—such as the Museum of Microminiatures or the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum—and enjoying the quaint cafes or shops. The views from Guadalest are truly a standout, as one reviewer noted, “surrounded by mountains with spectacular panoramic views.” This stop is perfect for history buffs and those who love a scenic mountain backdrop.

Refreshing Fun at Fuentes del Algar

The final major stop offers a natural contrast: the Fuentes del Algar waterfalls. This protected wetland is a highlight for many, especially since swimming is possible. You’ll have around 1.5 hours here to relax, dip in the waterfalls, and enjoy the lush surroundings. Visitors praise the biodiversity and the striking natural beauty—it’s a refreshing way to cool off after a full day of sightseeing.

Travelers are advised to bring water shoes for the rocky areas, as one reviewer pointed out, “the rocks hurt your feet,” making water shoes a smart packing choice. The waterfalls are a favorite for many, offering both photo opportunities and a chance to unwind in nature.

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Return Journey and Drop-Off

After a leisurely visit to Fuentes del Algar, the bus heads back to Valencia, with a 105-minute ride. The return trip offers opportunity to reflect on the day’s highlights, or simply relax and enjoy the scenic views. The tour concludes at your pickup point, either the Torres de Serranos or CEIP Benipeixcar.

When evaluated against the cost, this tour packs in a lot of value. Entrance tickets to Fuentes del Algar are included, as are transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and free time to explore each location. The consistent 4.8/5 rating from 12 reviews indicates strong satisfaction, with travelers praising the guides, the scenery, and the mix of organized activities and free exploration.

The tour offers a well-rounded experience—ideal for those wanting a taste of coastal charm, medieval history, and natural beauty in a single day. It’s also particularly suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor water activities, scenic vistas, and cultural sights in manageable segments.

This trip is perfect for adventurous visitors eager to see diverse highlights of the Valencian region without the stress of planning multiple excursions. It suits those who enjoy a mix of walking, sightseeing, and outdoor activities and don’t mind a full schedule. It’s especially appealing to families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a comprehensive day trip that balances cultural discovery with nature.

If you’re after a laid-back yet enriching experience with plenty of photo opportunities and memorable scenery, this tour ticks those boxes. Keep in mind, the full-day length and some walking involved mean it’s best for those with good mobility and stamina.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation, a guide, entrance tickets to Fuentes del Algar, and free time in Guadalest and Altea.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. You’ll have opportunities to buy snacks or sit at cafes during free time.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential, along with a towel, water shoes for swimming, and casual clothes suitable for outdoor activities and walking.

Are there any restrictions?
This tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking and outdoor terrain.

Can I swim at Fuentes del Algar?
Yes, swimming is allowed, but water shoes are recommended to protect your feet on the rocks.

How long is each stop?
Altea has about 20 minutes guided tour plus 75 minutes free time, Guadalest allows for around 30 minutes guided and 1.5 hours free, and Fuentes del Algar allows 1.5 hours for swimming and relaxing.

What is the duration of the whole trip?
The full day lasts approximately 9 to 11 hours, depending on traffic and group pace.

Is the guide bilingual?
Yes, guides are available in both English and Spanish, providing informative commentary throughout the day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

For those eager to see some of the most scenic spots just outside Valencia, this tour offers a fantastic blend of coastal charm, historic intrigue, and natural beauty. With expert guides, a well-balanced itinerary, and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waterfalls, it’s a solid choice for a memorable day trip. It caters best to active travelers who enjoy exploring outdoors, taking photos, and learning about local culture without the hassle of self-organizing each visit.

Whether you’re seeking picture-perfect villages, mountain vistas, or a cool dip after a day of sightseeing, this journey covers a lot of ground in one satisfying package. The consistent high ratings and positive reviews support its reputation as a worthwhile excursion that balances value and authentic experiences.

In summary, if you’re visiting Valencia and want to experience the region’s diverse landscapes and cultural highlights in one day, this tour offers an engaging, scenic, and well-organized way to do so. Be prepared for a full day, bring water shoes, and enjoy discovering the best of the Valencian Community’s coast and countryside.