Ask around in Spain’s wild swimming community and you’ll quickly learn that this country is about more than just its sun-drenched coast. Spain's rich mix of emerald-green rivers, sparkling mountain gorges and hidden lagoon-like pools means wild swimming isn't just a summer escape. Swimming in nature is a way to see the country at its most untamed.
If you’re looking for the best lakes to swim in Spain, or hoping to slip quietly into clear northern waters far from the crowds, you’re spoilt for choice. Whether you’re an open water purist or just in it for the adventure, here’s a line-up of wild swimming spots drawn from all over Spain, complete with practical details and a few local secrets for keen swimmers.
- La Charca Verde, Madrid
- Pozas Río Ara, Huesca
- Fonts de l’Algar, Alicante
- Urederra River Pools, Navarra, Basque Country
- Fontcalda, Tarragona, Catalonia
- Embalse de San Juan, Madrid
- Torrente de Pareis, Mallorca
- Les Planes d’Hostoles, Barcelona
- Embalse de los Bermejales, Granada
- Pozas de Mougás, Galicia
- Practical tips for wild swimming in Spain
La Charca Verde, Madrid
Tucked away in the heart of the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains, La Charca Verde is the “not-so-secret” secret of Madrid’s open water crowd. This deep granite pool along the River Manzanares offers cool, clear water perfect for a proper swim, with space to stretch out your stroke rather than just a quick paddle. Cliff-jumpers, sunbathers and lengths swimmers all rotate through as the day rolls on, but early risers often have the place to themselves, save for a few dragonflies and the distant clatter of cow bells.
You can reach it by following the well-trodden path from the Canto Cochino car park in La Pedriza natural park—just under an hour’s drive from Madrid’s city centre. If you make the walk in the morning, you’ll catch the granite cliffs glowing in the low sun and the water at its coldest and clearest.
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Pozas Río Ara, Huesca
Hidden amongst the lush Pyrenean foothills, the Pozas Río Ara are a real treat for anyone chasing cool, clean freshwater swims in northern Spain. These natural pools are formed by the Río Ara as it winds past the town of Boltaña, just south of Aínsa. They are popular with locals on hot afternoons. The water is crystal-clear, deep enough for a proper swim and even a bit of a plunge from sun-warmed rocks. Trout are sometimes visible skimming below the surface.
Getting there is straightforward. Park up in Boltaña and follow the footpaths down to the riverbanks—the most picturesque pools are between the old bridge and the nearby campsite area. The setting is wonderfully peaceful in the mornings, though you’ll probably share the river with a few friendly wild swimmers and families once the sun’s up.
Fonts de l’Algar, Alicante
The Fonts de l’Algar are a series of deep turquoise pools and roaring waterfalls strung along a narrow gorge just north of Benidorm. There’s plenty of room for a real swim here, even during the heat of summer, as fresh river water tumbles down from upstream. The pools nearest the entrance tend to fill up, but walk a little further and you’ll find quieter stretches, shaded by willow and cane.
Access is simple: a short, signed drive from Callosa d’En Sarrià and a small entrance fee (which keeps things tidy). It’s a favourite with local families and seasoned wild swimmers alike—bring water shoes for the smooth stone and expect to wade past the occasional adventurous duck.
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Urederra River Pools, Navarra, Basque Country
Tucked away where the lush forests of Navarra spill into the Basque Country, the Urederra River is famed for its turquoise water and dreamlike setting. Pasing by the pretty town of Estela, a series of crystal-clear pools form beneath waterfalls, with the river’s mineral-rich water giving everything a blue-green glow that hardly looks real. The walk to the pools is through forest, past mossy rocks and natural springs, so by the time you reach the water, you’ll feel worlds away from busy city life.
Swimming is only allowed in certain stretches—always check local conditions and signage, as this is a protected area with some restrictions in peak season. Access is from the village of Artabia, where you’ll find parking (and a small fee in summer). Then, follow the marked hiking trail towards the various sources, which start from Artabia's picturesque bridge and beyond. Arriving early not only beats the crowds but rewards you with silence and the best chance at a refreshing wild swim under the trees.
Fontcalda, Tarragona, Catalonia
Fontcalda combines the thermal and the wild, hidden where mountains squeeze the River Canaletes into a series of natural pools just outside Gandesa. Warm springs feed into the fresh river water, meaning it stays swimmable even when the mornings are cool. This is a place for a relaxed float followed by a hot soak—with the odd dash downstream for stronger swimmers. Locals swear by the water’s “healing” feel.
Accessible by foot or bike along the Greenway (Via Verde) or by car on a winding track from Gandesa. Don’t expect services or bars—pack food and plenty of water for a full afternoon of river swimming.
Embalse de San Juan, Madrid
Madrid’s go-to freshwater oasis, the Embalse de San Juan, is where lifelong city swimmers and triathletes brush shoulders with casual dippers. It’s a large, deep reservoir set amongst dense pine forest, and one of the few places close to the capital where you can swim far out from shore, float freely and take in views uninterrupted by apartment blocks.
To get here, take the M-501 road from Madrid—there are several signposted beaches, but Playa Virgen de la Nueva is famed for its clean water and well-managed swimming area. Try an early or mid-week swim for the quietest water.
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Torrente de Pareis, Mallorca
Sa Calobra’s cove at the mouth of the Torrente de Pareis is legendary among wild swimmers and hikers alike. Sheltered by massive cliffs, the mouth of the gorge holds a deep, saltwater pool that feels like a natural lido in high summer. After a swim, lie back on smooth pebbles and watch the afternoon light dance across the water’s surface.
You can drive (think hairpin bends, sweeping views) or take a boat from Port de Sóller. Trail runners and hikers often use the dramatic Pareis canyon walk as a warm up for a cold plunge—just be ready for crowds in July and August.
Les Planes d’Hostoles, Barcelona
A forested river valley around an hour and a half from Barcelona, Les Planes d’Hostoles is wild swimming heaven for those who prefer river loops to sea salt. The River Brugent carves out long, shaded pools and small waterfalls. Just north of the town itself, you'll find one of the deepest and most accessible natural pools. Summer weekends are a favourite time for local teens to show off, but the river can be blissfully peaceful if you sneak in on a weekday. The historic town of Olot is a good place to visit while in the area if you need a culture fix.
There’s parking in Les Planes d'Hostoles, and footpaths down to the water. Don’t be surprised if you hear Catalan laughter echoing as you swim your morning laps.
Embalse de los Bermejales, Granada
Set among the pine forests and low mountains near Arenas del Rey, Los Bermejales Reservoir is a local favourite when it comes to wild swimming in Granada. The lake’s clear, blue water stretches wide, with plenty of space for a real swim, and the shoreline is dotted with pebbly coves and shaded picnic spots. There’s a low-key, holiday vibe but rarely huge crowds, and the combination of scenic views and clean water draws everyone from open water swimmers and SUP enthusiasts to families and triathletes.
Getting there is easy. From Granada, head south via Alhama de Granada towards Arenas del Rey, then follow signs for the reservoir. There’s good parking by the main picnic area, but you can also wander round to quieter little coves if you want a bit of peace. Some local swimmers recommend packing a picnic and staying until early evening, when the sunsets over the water are especially good.
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Pozas de Mougás, Galicia
Galicia’s Atlantic forests hide countless secret pools, but the Pozas de Mougás are some of the most beautiful. Crystalline, tree-shaded pools are stacked down the rocky hillside just off the Vigo-Baiona coastal road. Rainfall means the waterfalls are dramatic through spring and autumn. By high summer, the water is brilliantly clear and warm enough for long, lazy swims beneath ferns and oaks.
Drive south from Baiona, Pontevedra, park at the signed picnic zone, and follow the worn forest path up to the pools. Early morning swimmers sometimes share the water with local horses coming down for a drink—a reminder of how remote this spot can feel.
Practical tips for wild swimming in Spain
- Go early or during the week to find the quietest water and clearest conditions.
- Bring sturdy water shoes for riverbeds and rocky pools—mud and smooth stones can be unexpectedly slippery.
- In summer, pack plenty of water and sun protection—many wild spots offer little or no shade.
- Respect local customs: take all rubbish away and avoid noisy groups to keep these places special for everyone.
- Always check for seasonal restrictions or weather warnings, especially after heavy rain when rivers can grow fast and strong.