Here’s a new hidden gem to visit near Valencia. It’s set in a beautiful natural landscape and comes with a mysterious legend behind it.
- This post contains affiliate links from which I earn a commission (at no extra cost to you). For more info, please read my disclosure. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Unique Waterfall in Navajas, Castellon
Visiting Navajas and The Jump of the Bride Waterfall
Where is Navajas?
Navajas is a small village located in the province of Castellon, in the Valencian Community of Spain. It is located about 60 kilometers (approximately 37 miles) northwest of Valencia and can be an easy day trip from the city. One of the most famous natural wonders in Navajas is the Salto de la Novia, a stunning 30-meter-high waterfall with a local legend behind it. The area around the waterfall is perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
Legend of the Bride´s Jump
Before you start reading, be aware that this legend is quite eerie and has earned the place a spot on list of Spanish mysteries and haunted locations. Many years ago, there was a local tradition where brides had to jump over the Palancia River to prove their love and ensure a happy marriage. Typically, the bride would find a narrow spot in the river and, in front of the villagers, jump to the opposite shore. Success was seen as a sign of true love and a prosperous marriage. One such story is about a young couple deeply in love, about to be married. Like the other brides, the young woman attempted the jump, but she slipped and fell into the river. The groom tried to save her, but tragically, they both drowned. To this day, some locals claim that on moonlit nights, they can still hear voices and see the river glow with a radiant white, resembling a wedding dress.
Nevertheless, the place has become the ultimate picnic destination for families and couples. Apparently, there’s not much left of the legend’s ‘dangerous river.’ What I find even more amusing is that it’s now a popular location for wedding photoshoots. No doubt, the photos would look great. But even if we assume the legend was invented simply to boost tourism in the area, I’m not sure I’d want to be reminded of a dead bride every time I flip through my wedding album… Would you?!
Pin it:
For more Spain travel tips check out my Pinterest board Spain Travel Collection and Flipboard Travel to Spain.
- Accommodation: For short stays, I usually book via Agoda and Booking
- Tours&excursions: My favorites for guided tours are GetYourGuide and Viator
- Museums&attractions: Get mobile tickets for attractions via Tiqets (use ATC5 code for a 5% discount via this link)
- Semi-private & private tours: LivTours is my favorite place for unique & crafted experiences in Europe
- For Foodies: Eatwith is a unique platform for finding culinary experiences with locals around the world
- Audio guides: Book audio excursions & tours in 35+ countries via WeGoTrip
- Flights: Find the best deals with Skyscanner and Kiwi
- Driving in a new country? – Check out Tripiamo guides (do not miss Tripiamo Driving in Spain Guide)
- Train&bus tickets: Currently, I book via Omio (10% off with code ATC10 for first-time customers)
- Car rental: To find the best deals, I use Discover Cars
- Top E-Sim: To avoid roaming fees, I like Holafly (use ATLIFESTYLECROSSROADS for for a 5% discount)
- Shop My Level8 Suitcase: get 15% off with the code ATC15 here
- Internet Security on the road: Connect safely to public Wi-Fi and bypass censorship with NordVPN
- Transfers: For individual transfer services, I like GetTransfer and Kiwitaxi
- Suitcases&Luggage: Discover where to store your luggage on the go with Radical Storage
- Travel Insurance: Find the best trip insurance plans via VisitorsCoverage and EKTA
- Compensation for delayed/canceled flights: Check out AirHelp and Compensair
- Renting Bikes: To find motorcycles, scooters, quads, and bicycles, I use BikesBooking
- Package Tours: Head to CheapOair and Expedia
- For Bloggers: To monetize my blog, I work with Travelpayouts and Stay22
- Website Owners: For hosting services, I work with and recommend Lyrical Host (get 10% off with my code ATC10)
This post is linked up with Feet Do Travel
What a legend! I won’t be jumping in there anytime soon! looks like a picturesque place to visit tho! Thanks for sharing
Thanks Phil and Garth!
A gorgeous place, for sure. Thanks for sharing the legend; though sad, any story makes a place more special. I’m not sure I would want my wedding photo taken there, but I wouldn’t mind visiting and spending some time by the river and waterfall.
Couldn´t agree more – any story makes a place more special, even the sad ones!
I love these old legends, or wives tales, and would definitely have my wedding photos there. LOL. The legend aside what a magnificent location. I’d never heard of it, Anna. Thanks for the info. 🙂
Thanks, Shona!
Haha what a fascinating wedding tradition, and thank god people don’t still attempt the jump! Funny though that they take wedding photos there, no matter how pretty the waterfall is! #FeetDoTravel
Exactly, thank god for this modern digital age!
The Jump of the Bride is an interesting legend, and I understand why a bride would choose the waterfall as a backdrop for wedding photos.
The location is beautiful indeed!
It’s quite a beautiful waterfall, no matter who may have died here 🙂
That´s also true! A beautiful location!
Well that’s a harrowing story! But the waterfall sure is beautiful…and very wedding-photo-perfect.