The present invention provides for a simplified process for converting ethers into their corresponding alcohols comprising forming an aqueous mixture of the ether and at least about 50% by weight water and heating the mixture under autogeneous pressure at a temperature of from about 250.degree. to 450.degree. C., more preferably from about 250.degree. C. up to the critical temperature of water which is about 374.degree. C. Heating is continued for a period of time sufficient to convert at least about 20% by weight of the ether, usually from about 5 up to about 120 minutes, depending on temperature and the amount of water present, and the identity of the starting ether feedstock.The process may be characterized as an aquathermolysis reaction wherein the reaction proceeds in water primarily through ionic routes rather than through free radical routes. Accordingly, relatively high conversion rates and good yields of alcohol and other reaction by-products may be obtained without the necessity of using a catalyst in the process.