NATURAL POOLS IN AND AROUND SPAIN
If you prefer fresh water do not miss the seven most amazing natural pools of Andalucia
Andalucia is a land that is not only the home of beautiful beaches, but also of excellent natural pools and ponds where to go for a dip in fresh water. Natural surroundings full of vegetation where you can also enjoy the sun and the peace and quiet this summer. Grab pen and paper and jot down the ten natural pools that you should not miss. Charming places to swim in the middle of nature.
- El Chorro (Malaga)
El Chorro is a village belonging to Alora next to a dam on the Guadalhorce River, in the province of Málaga. It is one of the main rock climbing centres in Europe as it is located next to Los Gaitanes Gorge where you can also find El Caminito del Rey, known for being notoriously dangerous and also for its beauty. Here you can give yourself a relaxing bath surrounded by breathtaking views.
- Bolonia (Cadiz)
Bolonia is a place best known for its fine sand beach and crystal clear waters, what few people know is that a few meters away there is also a natural fresh water pool completely isolated from the world. If you decide to go, do not forget to bring some snacks because there are no facilities and no service areas there. You will have to access walking and on the way you will find this spectacular place surrounded by dunes.
- Chillar River, Nerja (Malaga)
The nature lovers are well aware of the route through the Chillar River near Nerja, where sports and contact with nature are its main attraction. In one of the ascents of the river is a large water reservoir where the daring hikers make a stop to bathe in this natural pool covered with rocks. In the top part, almost at the end, is another reservoir with waterfalls to cool down in after the exercise. Do not miss this place that will leave you with your mouth open.
- Mouth of the Guadalhorce River, Malaga
The Guadalhorce River is a stream full of orange and lemon scents that runs through the heart of Malaga, it gives water to terraced fruit trees and plantations of vegetables and flows into the sea. With its Access on the part of Guadalmar, this natural pool is one of the most comforting of Malaga with a great extension, possessor of great emotions. That final extension makes it possible to swim in a unique atmosphere.
- La Playita in Grazalema (Cadiz)
In Zahara de la Sierra, at 20 minutes from Grazalema, is La Playita, a fresh water lake created to enjoy the beach on a field day. The Grazalema mountain range, in Cadiz, is one of the most important natural treasures of Spain both for its environmental value and for its great tradition and culture, an enclave where some of the most beautiful white villages of Andalusia are located. Its vegetation and fauna wealth give the place an enviable environment where, in addition to being in contact with the purest nature, you will be able to give yourself a refreshing dip.
- La Balsa de Cela, (Almeria)
It is a thermal water spring located on the boundary of the municipality of Lucar, and at an altitude of 720 meters above sea level. The waters emerge naturally with a constant flow of 42 litres per second and a temperature that is maintained in the different seasons of the year between 22ºC and 24ºC. These waters have medicinal properties for different types of diseases. The neighbours have been responsible for fixing it up with all the details and it even has some stairs to access it. This natural pool goes from 50 centimetres to 2 meters deep.
- Fuente del Río, in Cabra (Cordoba)
Fuente del Río is a natural spot catalogued as a Property of Cultural Interest. The Cabra River is born there, and on its way forms a series of waterfalls, accompanied by artificial fountains and a raft where you can take a relaxing bath. The natural character of a typical spring of the karstic system of the Cabra mountain range, with the ornamental value of gardens and trees, converge in this place. There is no better way to lower the temperature than to swim in these fresh waters that charm all those who visit them.
Source: http://blog.fuertehoteles.com
A Traveller’s Viewpoint
While browsing for a decent travel guide for Andalucia, I stumbled upon one that quite enthusiastically mentioned the existence of natural hot springs, close to Estepona. Albeit their penetrating smell, bading was supposed to be a real treat. I thought, I bought that specific guidebook, but unfortunately not.
Where are these hot springs located?
Andalucia is quite big and has more than one natural hot springs.
Close to Estepona there are a roman baths called “Baños de la Hedionda” (stinky baths, literally). To get there you have to have your own vehicle or find a local transport to Manilva (it’s the nearest village). From
Manilva you can walk (there are some interesting treks around there) or go by car.
If you have a GPS go to: (WGS84) 36.396483 -5.2614660
If not, in Manilva, just ask for “Camino de los baños” (a nice paved road to the place you are looking for). Please, note that usually the bathers don’t use swim suit here, it’s not officially a clothes optional place, but nobody cares about if you have or not your swimsuit. So be tolerant.
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