Looking for the best hot springs in Spain? Spain has natural thermal baths, historic spa towns and free open-air pools where mineral-rich water has drawn visitors for centuries. They are especially welcome in autumn and winter, but most can be enjoyed all year round.
This guide covers the 5 best hot springs and thermal baths in Spain, from the Japanese-inspired pools of Ourense to the mud baths of Murcia. Each one sits in a striking landscape, and several are free to enter.
- Does Spain have natural hot springs?
- Spain's best hot springs at a glance
- Outariz and As Burgas thermal baths, Ourense (Galicia)
- Las Charcas mud baths, Lo Pagán (Murcia)
- Zújar thermal baths, Granada (Andalusia)
- Arnedillo hot springs, La Rioja
- La Fontcalda thermal baths, Tarragona (Catalonia)
- How to plan your hot springs getaway in Spain
- Frequently asked questions about hot springs in Spain
Does Spain have natural hot springs?
Yes. Spain has many natural hot springs and thermal baths known for their therapeutic properties. The main regions are Ourense in Galicia, the volcanic areas of the Canary Islands and Murcia's thermal spas. Visitors soak in mineral-rich water in scenic surroundings, and the water is traditionally linked to relaxation, better circulation and healthier skin.
Yes. Spain has many natural hot springs and thermal baths known for their therapeutic properties. The main regions are Ourense in Galicia, the volcanic areas of the Canary Islands and Murcia's thermal spas. Visitors soak in mineral-rich water in scenic surroundings, and the water is traditionally linked to relaxation, better circulation and healthier skin.
Spain's best hot springs at a glance
| Hot spring | Region | Type | Best known for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outariz Thermal Station | Ourense, Galicia | Public and private pools | Japanese-inspired spa on the Miño River |
| As Burgas Thermal Pool | Ourense, Galicia | Historic thermal pool | Roman-era hot spring at 67°C |
| Las Charcas Mud Baths | Lo Pagán, Murcia | Free mud bath | Mineral mud on the Mar Menor |
| Zújar Thermal Baths | Granada, Andalusia | Natural thermal pool | Turquoise water at around 30°C all year |
| Pozas de Arnedillo | La Rioja | Hot springs | A thermal escape in wine country |
| La Fontcalda | Tarragona, Catalonia | Free thermal baths | Mountain setting in the Torto |
Outariz and As Burgas thermal baths, Ourense (Galicia)
Ourense is known as the thermal capital of Galicia, and it has some of the best hot springs in Spain. Two of them stand out: the Outariz Thermal Station and the As Burgas Thermal Pool. Both give you an authentic thermal experience in beautiful surroundings.
Outariz Thermal Station (Termas de Outariz)
Outariz sits on the banks of the Miño River and feels like a Japanese-inspired spa. Several pools at different temperatures hold mineral-rich water said to ease muscle pain and stress. You can use the free public pools or book a private thermal area for a quieter visit. Gardens and river views add to the calm.
As Burgas Thermal Pool
As Burgas, in the centre of Ourense, dates back to Roman times. The hot spring water reaches 67°C, and the bathing area is a comfortable 37°C. The water is known for its purifying and healing properties, and the nearby archaeological sites and remains of Roman baths make the visit a little history lesson too.
Las Charcas mud baths, Lo Pagán (Murcia)
The Las Charcas mud baths in Lo Pagán, on the shore of the Mar Menor lagoon, are one of the most unusual natural spa experiences in Spain. You cover yourself in mud rich in magnesium, calcium, potassium and sulphur, then rinse off in warm, salty water. Visitors say it helps skin health, joint pain and inflammation.
Entry is free and open to everyone, and the atmosphere is lively and communal. Shallow water and scenic walkways make it an easy place to enjoy the sun, the sea and the mud.
Zújar thermal baths, Granada (Andalusia)
The Zújar thermal baths sit close to Lake Negratín in the province of Granada and offer a quiet, natural hot spring experience. The water stays at around 30°C all year and is rich in sulphur and minerals, which are believed to help with skin conditions, muscle aches and joint pain. Mountains and turquoise lake water surround the pool, so it works well as a peaceful, restorative stop.
Arnedillo hot springs, La Rioja
La Rioja is famous for its wine, but the Pozas de Arnedillo hot springs are a lesser-known reason to visit. The springs are known for their healing properties and are a good place to unwind. While you are there, explore Arnedillo's historic churches, monasteries and hermitages set into the mountains.
La Fontcalda thermal baths, Tarragona (Catalonia)
In the mountains near Tortosa in Catalonia, the La Fontcalda thermal baths are one of Spain's hidden hot springs. Mineral-rich water from the Canaletes River is linked to muscle relaxation and stress relief. Entry is free, and the setting is scenic, especially in the cooler months.
How to plan your hot springs getaway in Spain
Spain's hot springs and thermal baths suit every kind of trip: mountain retreats, Roman-era pools or mud therapy by the sea. Pick a region, book a holiday rental nearby and pack your swimsuit. Autumn and winter are a great time to go, when a warm soak feels best.
Frequently asked questions about hot springs in Spain
Where are the best hot springs in Spain?
Ourense in Galicia is the best-known area, with the Outariz Thermal Station and the Roman As Burgas pool. Other top spots are Las Charcas in Murcia, Zújar in Granada, Arnedillo in La Rioja and La Fontcalda in Tarragona.
Are there free hot springs in Spain?
Yes. The Las Charcas mud baths and La Fontcalda are free to enter, and Outariz has free public pools alongside its private thermal areas.
What is the best time of year to visit Spain's hot springs?
Autumn and winter are popular because a hot soak is most appealing in cooler weather. Some springs, such as Zújar, stay at around 30°C all year, so they work in any season.
What are the benefits of thermal baths?
The mineral-rich water is traditionally linked to muscle relaxation, stress relief, better circulation, healthier skin and relief from joint pain. These are traditional beliefs rather than medical claims, so check with a doctor if you have a health condition.
Does Spain have volcanic hot springs?
Yes. The Canary Islands have volcanic areas, which are one of Spain's main thermal regions alongside Ourense and Murcia.
