With the arrival of autumn and the drop in temperatures, several destinations present themselves as an excellent option to enjoy unique and charming places without having to be cold. The Iberian Peninsula has a large number of natural spaces perfect to discover, whatever the climate. And with numerous hot springs distributed in several autonomous communities. In this way, knowing what the possibilities are can be of great help in choosing where to go. These are also some of the best hot springs to enjoy outdoors in the fall.
Outariz hot springs, in Orense
The province of Ourense is known for its famous Burgas –or As Burgas in Galician–, which are hot springs distributed throughout the region. These were already used by the Romans, who used their hot waters for curative and religious purposes.
One of the most famous in the region is the Outariz hot springs, located on the banks of the Miño River and which stand out for their oriental setting. In them it is possible to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relax.
The waters of the Outariz hot springs vary between 35 and 40ºC, making them ideal to visit in autumn, as they are also considered hyperthermal, bicarbonate and sodic, which is why they are attributed with beneficial properties for ailments of the respiratory system, rheumatism or other skin conditions.
In addition, Outariz swimming pools have several sections. As is the case in much of the territory of Ourense, it has paid hot springs and many other public sources, where you can enjoy the waters completely free.
Fountain of the Thermal Baths of Montanejos, in Castellón
The Montanejos hot springs, in the province of Castellón, are unique both for the quality of their water and their unique history. According to legend, the Moorish king Abu Zayd built the baths so that the women of his harem could preserve their beauty through constant contact with the waters of unique properties.
The fountains, which actually come from the Mijares River, have great benefits for the skin, preventing damage caused by free radicals. In addition, its constant temperature of 25ºC facilitates the treatment of cardiovascular, hepatic and hypertension-related diseases.
Thus, the natural pools of the Mijares River are an ideal option to enjoy the hot springs in summer, not only for their healing properties, but also for the number of options they offer. Indeed, the natural pools are surrounded by a vast mountainous environment, making it an ideal destination for hiking enthusiasts.
Fontcalda, in Tarragona
La Fuente Calda – or Fontcalda in Catalan – is a public thermal spa located 80 kilometers from the capital Tarragona. The place has great historical significance, since the thermal spring was known since ancient times and gained great fame in the Middle Ages for its alleged healing properties. In addition, its waters were used by the monks who lived in the neighboring hermitage, that of the Virgin of Fontcalda.
The enclave has a constant temperature of 28ºC, making it a perfect option to enjoy in spring and autumn, when the weather is milder. On the other hand, the waters are sulphurous and contain minerals – mainly magnesium and calcium – which are beneficial for the skin.
The environment stands out not only for its waters, but also for its surroundings, among which it is possible to enjoy the Fontcalda gorges, a gorge formed by the Canaletes river and surrounded by steep limestone mountains. In addition, it is possible to take several hiking routes through the gorges, such as the Voie Verte, a route that follows the old railway line and during which you can enjoy all the views that the site offers. .
Montemayor Hot Springs Baths, in Cáceres
The baths of Baños de Montemayor, in Cáceres, as well as the rest of the city, are home to a large number of Roman remains in a very good state of conservation. So, although these hot springs require a fee, they are among the oldest in all of Spain, as they were used by this civilization to treat heart problems and skin conditions, and they continue to be frequented today as place of relaxation.
Its waters are at 43ºC, making it a great option on the coldest autumn days. Additionally, the city is surrounded by large mountains and green valleys.
The region also has a diverse flora and fauna that you can enjoy. In this way, the Montemayor Thermal Baths are an excellent option not only to enjoy the hot springs, but also the natural environment that surrounds it, where you can practice hiking and other mountain activities, observe exotic birds and discover unique plants.
