The beach is definitely the beach—no doubt about it. But in the summer, it can turn into a nightmare with so many people and so little parking space. If you’re a die-hard beach person and nothing else, you already know which are the best coves in the Valencian Community.
But if you want to escape the big beach crowds (we can’t rule out the possibility of a few here and there), you can head to one of the many natural pools scattered throughout the province of Valencia. These are the best natural pools and lakes you’ll find near Valencia.
Valencia has its first inland beach, Playamonte in Navarrés, which has been awarded the Blue Flag for its water quality, facilities, and sand. Surrounded by pine forests, it offers amenities that surpass those of some coastal beaches, with crystal-clear water, public restrooms, picnic areas, lifeguards, and parking.
📍Location: Navarrés, Valencia.
El Azud – Pozo de las Escaleras
In the Tuéjar Valley, in the Los Serranos region, you’ll find this beautiful natural pool surrounded by nature. Plus, if you hike up a bit, you’ll come across a small area where the water has formed a little lake. There’s also a picnic area where you can spend the whole day cooling off.
📍Location: Partida Azud Nacimiento, 0, 46177 Tuéjar.
Charcos de Quesa
In the southern part of the province, you’ll find Los Charcos de Quesa, a series of pools where you can relax and enjoy nature. The waterfalls and natural pools make for a great spot to take photos.
📍Location: Cam. Corbera, 46824 Quesa, Valencia.
El Gruñidor – Sot de Chera
This natural pool is located right in the heart of the Sot de Chera Natural Park. It’s surrounded by mountains and forests and also features a couple of historic landmarks of great value, such as its castle and the San Roque Hermitage. Very close by, you’ll also find Las Toscas, a unique spring with rocks and waterfalls. That’s the one shown in the photo.
Swimming is not recommended, according to this report by Valencia Bonita.
📍Location: C. Ramón y Cajal, 12A, 46168 Sot de Chera, Valencia.
The Sellent River flows next to Bolbaite, and along its course it forms a natural pool perfect for spending the day with friends or family. It’s also a great area for hiking. Limited capacity: admission ticket required.
📍Location: CV-580, Km. 8, 46822 Bolbaite, Valencia.
Everyone knows Anna for its lake and lagoon, but what not everyone knows is that it also has one of the most idyllic natural pools in the Valencian Community. When you arrive in Anna, just 136 steps separate you from the cold, crystal-clear waters. Are you brave enough to give it a try?
Plus, the “Route of the 3 Waterfalls”—one of the most spectacular in the province of Valencia—is right nearby.
📍Location: Diseminado Poligono 11, 34, 46820 Anna, Valencia.
Vallada
La Saraella de Vallada and its natural saltwater pool are one-of-a-kind. You’ll find it next to the beautiful Ermitas area, which is perfect for a hike and a picnic at one of its picnic areas.
📍Location: Calle Perpendicular Molinets, 39, 46691 Vallada.
Oliva
The Font Salada de Oliva Natural Area is located above an underground thermal spring. This means you can swim here in both summer and winter at an average temperature of 23 degrees Celsius.
📍Location: Font Salada C.D.12, Urb. Sant Pere, 46780 Oliva, Valencia.
If you’re looking for an alternative to the beach, make sure to add this must-see spot to your list: the Fuente de los Baños, in Montanejos (Alto Mijares). This inland thermal paradise is a natural pool with crystal-clear waters that maintain a constant temperature below 25 °C and has been awarded a Blue Flag.
The spring flows at a rate of more than 6,000 liters per minute, and access is regulated by capacity limits. Admission costs €4.50.
