Escape the Heat: 3 Natural Pools in Inland Valencia Province

While the coast turns into a battle for a spot in the sun at the height of the season, the inland areas of Valencia province offer a completely different scenario: cool waterfalls and rivers, as well as natural pools tucked among mountains and forests. Here are three places worth escaping to from the heat this summer.

Los Charcos de Quesa: Four Pools Surrounded by Mountains 

Just an hour's drive from Valencia lies one of the province's most beloved natural spots — Los Charcos de Quesa. These are four natural pools surrounded by mountains and forests, through which the Grande River, a tributary of the Júcar, flows. The route links four swimming spots: Toll de les Hortetes, Toll de les Fonts, Toll de la Banyera, and Toll del Xorro de Corbera.

The place is well equipped. There's a parking lot, picnic areas, restrooms, a playground, and adapted access for people with limited mobility. The area is part of the European Natura 2000 conservation network. During high season, admission is paid: one euro per person and two euros per car, with free entry for children under 10. More details via this link.

La Playeta: A Sandy Beach by the River

Less than an hour from Valencia, the Chelva River, cutting through canyon walls, forms the picturesque La Playeta — with small waterfalls and a natural pool surrounded by greenery. The place got its name ("little beach") thanks to the sand that has built up along the shore, creating a miniature inland beach.

You can combine a swim with a walk along the well-known "Water Route" (Ruta del Agua) — a loop trail of about two hours along the river with some of the most beautiful scenery in Chelva. In July and August, Chelva's town hall regulates access to La Playeta and charges an entrance fee. A ticket costs one euro — the proceeds go toward preserving the natural area.

Gorgo de l'Escalera: A Canyon and Three Waterfalls 

A few meters from the village of Anna is Gorgo de l'Escalera — one of the best-known swimming spots in the area. The descent begins with 136 steps leading down to a natural pool surrounded by a canyon carved by the river over many years.

Here you can alternate between swimming in crystal-clear pools and hiking and water activities. Nearby runs the popular "Route of the Three Waterfalls" (Ruta de les Tres Cascades) — a loop trail of about an hour and a half along the Sellent River, which leads to the Gorgo Gaspar gorge, the Cascada de los Vikingos (Vikings' Waterfall), and the Cascada del Salto (Salto Waterfall).

Free and paid parking is available for visitors. During peak season, admission to Gorgo de l'Escalera may cost two euros per person, with free entry for children under four. Details via this link.