The spas of Andalusia are so numerous and varied that we can not pass up the opportunity to write a post dedicated to them. We will present you the most outstanding ones, including those that are supplied with mineral or thermal waters from springs, the thematic and conventional ones.
Andalusia is rich in springs with thermal waters, especially in the eastern part. The subway waters that spring up in different parts of Andalusia have beneficial properties for people’s health. That is why in your trip to Andalusia you cannot miss a day of relaxation in one of the historical spas of Andalusia.
In addition, Andalusia has luxurious hotels that have incorporated dream spas facing the sea or with wonderful mountain views.
What you will find here
A LITTLE HISTORY OF THE SPAS OF ANDALUSIA
We say that the spas of Andalusia are historical because the tradition of taking baths or consuming water from the springs is very old in this land. We cannot make a long article on the subject, but we are going to give you some interesting data so that you can understand the importance of the spas in Andalusia.
Roman baths reconstructed in La Luisiana, Seville (© Turismo Sevilla).
In Spain, the acronym SPA is used to designate modern spas built in cities. They are generally associated with large hotels and use conventional water. This word could come from Spa, a town in Belgium where once there were Roman thermal baths, or directly from the Latin “Selus Per Aqua”, which would come to mean “Health from water”. One way or another, nowadays the word “spa” is linked to these places of leisure without the presence of thermal waters.
In Roman times the public bathing place was called “thermae” or “therma”, while the private ones were called “balmes” or “balneum”. There are archaeological remains of numerous thermal baths in Andalusia, such as those of Roman Cordoba, those of Italica,those of the city of Antequera, others in San Pedro de Alcantara (Málaga), Almuñecar, smaller thermal baths such as those of Talara (Granada) or the recently discovered ones of Cabo de Trafalgar (Cadiz).
Roman baths discovered near Caños de Meca (© EFE).
During the Andalusian period the enjoyment of thermal waters will continue to be important. It is necessary to differentiate between “ḥammām” (artificial bath) and “ḥāmma” natural baths in mineral-medicinal waters.
The hammam in al-Andalus, unlike what we can imagine from the current Arab baths and their romantic idealization, did not consist of a bath by immersion. It was a place for personal hygiene, socialization and ritual, since purification (tahâra) was necessary before Friday prayers. It functioned as a kind of wet sauna with rooms at different temperatures and basins from which water was taken with buckets.
Hammam of the Comares Palace in the Alhambra.
Alhama (al-ḥāmma), an arabic toponym that means “the spa”, is one of the usual ones in the Andalusian geography. It is quite revealing, since those places so named usually have springs of thermal waters. The river Alhama, Alhama de Granada and Alhama de Almería, Sierra Alhamilla are some of the most obvious ones. In these spas, immersion in thermal water pools was practiced and practically always had a medicinal function.
On the other hand, other types of ritual baths are also preserved in Andalusia. This is the case of the mikveh, a bath with a ritual function used by the Jews. Although they are less known in Ubeda, one is preserved practically intact. These baths consisted of a deep excavation that had to reach the water table where the water remained pure and crystalline.
In Andalusia there were other types of baths or spas located on the coastline. This type of establishments with an eminently recreational character began to appear in the 19th century with the rise of a new social class, the bourgeoisie. The best examples of them are the Balneario de la Palma (Cadiz) and the Baños del Carmen (Malaga), both built at the beginning of the 20th century, but in the place of other older baths.
Baños del Carmen in Malaga.
BEST SPAS IN ANDALUSIA
Assessing which are the best spas in Andalusia is not an easy task. If you like tranquility and nature, you will probably want to visit some of the thermal spas in Granada, all of them located in rural environments, linked to springs and surrounded by bucolic landscapes.
If, on the other hand, you like urban life more, you will go to one of the conventional spas that are generally offered by the larger hotels in the Andalusian capitals. They are usually modern, have a newer and more luxurious look and you will be able to spend a relaxing moment while visiting a great monument in a short time. Undoubtedly the most luxurious spas you will find on the coast of Malaga, between Marbella and Estepona, we will show you later.
Finally, if what you want is to immerse yourself in the world of orientalism or romantic classicism, in almost any capital of Andalusia you will find themed spas such as Arab baths or Roman-style thermal baths.
For this reason we are going to present you the spas of Andalusia in each province separated into four sections: spas of thermal waters, thermal waters of free access, thematic spas and conventional spas.
In our opinion the best spas in Andalusia are those that are fed by thermal or mineral waters from springs, as they have medicinal properties. They are also the most authentic, as their waters have been used for hundreds of years or even thousands of years. However, these spas are not the most luxurious and elegant in Andalusia. If what you are looking for is luxury you should enjoy bathing in a conventional or themed spa.
SPAS IN ANDALUSIA
SPAS IN GRANADA
If we talk about thermal waters in Andalusia, without a doubt we have to talk about Granada. In this province is the place where there are more thermal spas, five to be precise. So let’s go by parts.
THERMAL WATER SPAS
ALHAMA DE GRANADA THERMAL SPA
If we have to stay with a thermal spa in Granada, it would be the one in Alhama de Granada. And although we could tell you wonders about the properties of its waters, we want to emphasize the antiquity of the use of its waters. Although the oldest documents date back to the fourteenth century, archaeology has confirmed the existence of Roman baths and has dated the spectacular horseshoe arches room in the thirteenth century.
Andalusi Spa of Alhama de Granada (Courtesy of © Manuel Pérez Asensio).
ZÚJAR THERMAL SPA
The thermal spa of Zújar is perhaps one of the most modern and welcoming of Granada. Its powerful spring of medicinal mineral water was also enjoyed by Romans and Andalusians, but the remains of this ancient spa were submerged by the waters of the current Negratín reservoir. The current spa is an enjoyment for the senses with unparalleled views of the swamp.
Balneario de Zújar with views of the Negratín reservoir (© Balneario de Zújar).
ALICÚN DE LAS TORRES
The Alicún de las Torres thermal spa is known for its thermal waters with medicinal properties and its more than unique natural environment. This spa is located in a semi-desert mountainous area and includes thermal baths, massages and spa treatments, all designed to relax and rejuvenate visitors.
Alicún de las Torres thermal spa (© Turismo Granada).
El balneario de Alicún de las Torres se encuentra en el Granada Geopark, a vast territory dominated by aridity and impressive geological landscapes. In its surroundings you can visit impressive dolmens, know a unique irrigation channel in the world and travel through the desert of the coloraos in 4×4.
THERMAL BATHS OF LA MALAHA
The four mineral-thermal water springs of La Malaha offer an unbeatable option to share relaxation with historical heritage. These open-air thermal baths preserve part of the Roman infrastructures that once occupied the site. It is a spa without pretensions or luxuries and the prices are quite popular.
Thermal waters in the Malaha (© Turismo Granada).
Other thermal spas in Granada are those of Graena, Lanjarón and Alicún de las Torres.
FREE ACCESS TO THERMAL WATERS
In addition to the aforementioned spas, the thermal waters of Granada are found in other parts of the province. Between Atarfe and Pinos Puente there was a pool that was supplied by a spring and in Santa Fé, there is also a hot water spring. Both are currently closed. The spa of Alhama de Granada has areas next to the river where the hot water flows and is free access. Also in Zújar there is a large pool of thermal waters. In Dúrcal the baths of Urquízar and Vacamía are famous. Finally we mention the two large thermal pools that Huesca and Orce, both with the name Fuencaliente.
THEMATIC SPAS
In Granada the main theme is al-Andalus. So you will have several choices of hammans: Hammam Al-Andalus, Al-Haram Granada or the Elvira Baths. As we said at the beginning, it is a good place to let yourself be carried away by the romantic orientalism. Dim candlelights and pools with different temperatures await you for a moment of relaxation.
Hammam al-Andalus of Granada (© Hammam al-Andalus).
CONVENTIONAL SPAS
If you prefer something more modern, within the city of Granada you will find several conventional spas such as the Granada Palace Spa and the Granada Five Senses Spa.
SPAS IN ALMERIA
THERMAL WATER SPAS
In Almeria there are two thermal spas, both historical and very old.
SAN NICOLÁS THERMAL SPA
The first of them is located in the town of Alhama de Almería, as it could not be otherwise. In its facilities a bathtub is conserved that is usually dated in Roman times and the first news of the use of its mineral-thermal waters go back to the Andalusian Middle Ages. In the 19th century the current spa originated, although the current building is far from the original. Its waters are kept at a temperature of 47.5º and are considered bicarbonated, sulfated, calcium and magnesium.
Thermal water pool of the San Nicolás Spa, Almería (© Balneario de San Nicolás).
SIERRA ALHAMILLA THERMAL SPA
The Hotel Balneario de Sierra Alhamilla is a special place that combines the tranquility of nature with the benefits of thermal waters. Here, bicarbonated, chlorinated, sodium-magnesium mineral-medicinal waters gush at a temperature of 58ºC. They also have a small radon content, so they are radioactive.
One of the main attractions of this spa is its history. The pools are founded on the ruins of Roman and Arab times. It also preserves a marble bathtub from the 17th century. The origin of the present spa dates back to 1777, when the Bishop of Almeria rebuilt the ancient ruins.
Bathing pools of Sierra Alhamilla in Almeria (© Hotel Balneario de Sierra Alhamilla).
FREE THERMAL WATERS
In the valley of the Almanzora there is a town called Lúcar in whose municipal district there is a famous thermal water spring. Its waters flow at a rate of 42 liters per second and fill the Balsa de Cela. In the Alpujarra of Almeria is Alboloduy, a small village with a curious and very unique name. In its vicinity is located the Balsica Salobre. Its waters are not thermal, but brackish and curative benefits are attributed to the skin.
THEMATIC SPAS
In Almeria there are two options to relax in an Arabic-inspired bath, Aire Ancient Baths and Almeraya. They are extremely quiet places, ideal to reach a state of total relaxation and complement it with a treatment or massage.
CONVENTIONAL SPAS
The big hotels in Roquetas or El Toyo usually have spas. And in Cabo de Gata, a natural park that we recommend you to visit, there are also some hotels with spa like the Hotel de Naturaleza Rodalquilar or the Cala Grande in Las Negras.
Spa of the Hotel Cala Grande in Las Negras (© Hotel Cala Grande).
SPAS OF JAEN
Jaen is a land of castles, the best olive oil in the world and he epicenter of Iberian villages, you can also enjoy a good spa.
THERMAL WATER SPAS
SAN ANDRÉS THERMAL SPA
The San Andrés Spa is located at the foot of the town of Canena, in the province of Jaén, and is crowned by a 16th century castle-fortress. This 45,000 m2 complex is surrounded by pine trees and olive groves. Its quiet environment, its facilities, its green and landscaped areas, make it an ideal place to rest. Its waters are hard, with an almost neutral pH and balanced mineralization. The spring of medicinal mineral waters has been used since 1853.
San Andrés Spa in Canena, Jaén (© Balneario de San Andrés).
MARMOLEJO THERMAL SPA
Although it is not currently possible to enjoy thermal baths in the Marmolejo Spa, we wanted to add it to the list as you can visit its facilities and drink its water. In the mid-nineteenth century this spa put Marmolejo in the spotlight of the wealthier classes. Attracted by the curative properties of its waters, this incipient tourism led to the prosperity of the town. Its biocarbonated and ferruginous waters are indicated for liver, digestive and renal diseases.
Spa of the Marmolejo spa, Jaen (© Balneario de Marmolejo).
FREE THERMAL WATERS
In the province of Jaén there are other thermal springs, but unfortunately they are closed. This is the case of the Balneario de Fuente la Encina (Andújar), completely disappeared: the Balneario de Jabalcuz, next to the capital but closed; and the thermal baths of Martos.
THEMATIC SPAS
TERMAS RENACENTISTAS (RENAISSANCE BATHS)
One of the most interesting thematic spas in Andalusia is in Úbeda. The Termas Renacentistas are part of the Palacio de Úbeda, a charming hotel located in a former palace of the Condes de Guadiana from the 16th century. Visiting these thermal baths is an incomparable sensory journey. You can enjoy waters at different temperatures, hot stones, a variety of water jets and massages and treatments accompanied by quiet music and essential oils. The Palacio de Úbeda is one of those places that evoke ancient stories and where you will enjoy an unbeatable stay.
Palacio de Úbeda Spa (© Hotel Palacio de Úbeda).
CONVENTIONAL SPAS
In Jaén capital there are some actual spas such as the Nature Spa Center. It is small, but has many services and even private spaces.
SPAS OF CORDOBA
THERMAL WATER SPAS
AGUAS DE VILLAHARTA THERMAL SPA
If what you are looking for is a place in nature where you can disconnect and enjoy the relaxation provided by the medicinal mineral waters, the Aguas de Villaharta spa is the ideal place. As we have seen throughout the post, the foundation of this spa dates back to the 19th century. The current spa has been restored with excellent taste and integrated into nature. It has preserved the rustic essence of the place and has been equipped with modern comforts. Its waters are rich in iron, sulfur and carbonic acid. It has a hammam style bath that amazes all visitors.
Spa/Hammam of the Aguas de Villaharta Spa, Cordoba (© Balneario Aguas de Villaharta).
THEMATIC SPAS
Cordoba experienced two periods of extraordinary splendor, one as the capital of Hispania Ulterior Baetica during the Roman Empire and the other as the capital of al-Andalus during the High Middle Ages. That is why the themes of its baths revolve around these two historical moments. On one side are those of Arab inspiration, the Hammam Al Ándalus and the Arab Baths of Cordoba.
Magical moment in the Hammam of Cordoba (© Hammam al-Andalus).
SPA BODYNA. HOSPES PALACIO DE BAILÍO
On the other hand, there is the Roman-inspired Bodyna Spa, an intimate and privileged space like a Roman baths in the Hospes Palacio del Bailio. It is accessed through a courtyard of orange trees flanked by Roman columns. Its professionals will pamper you with top quality treatments in the massage cabins. At the end you will descend to the basement to immerse yourself in the warm waters of the Roman baths. There you will feel how all your worries disappear one by one.
Bodyna Spa outdoor pool (© Hospes Hoteles).
CONVENTIONAL SPAS
In the province of Cordoba there are several unique spas. In Lucena is the Vaho Spa, small but very cozy. In Alcaracejos ( Valle de los Pedroches) you will find the Los Pedroches Thermal Center, an old grain silo masterfully converted into a spa..
SPAS IN SEVILLE
THERMAL WATER SPAS
Seville does not have any historical thermal spas in operation.
THEMATIC SPAS
In Seville, similar to Cordoba, you can enjoy a Roman style decoration in the Termas de Híspalis or the perfumes of al-Andalus in the Arab Baths Medina Aljarafe or in Aire Ancient Baths, it’s a matter of taste!
Termas de Híspalis in Seville (© Termas de Híspalis).
CONVENTIONAL SPAS
To count the number of modern spas in Seville would be an arduous task. The large hotels usually have one and many of the smaller hotels in the center also have spas with a greater or lesser number of services.
SPA EME CATEDRAL MERCER
One of the most interesting and with an exquisite atmosphere, is the spa of the EME Catedral Mercer hotel, a sanctuary in the heart of Seville. It has a heated pool, cervical waterfall, hammam, relaxation area and a whole range of body services for health and beauty that awaken the senses.
Hotel Eme Spa in the center of Seville (© Hotel EME Catedral Mercer 5*).
SPA CATALONIA SANTA JUSTA
A somewhat simpler spa can be found at the Catalonia Santa Justa hotel. Although it is a little further from the center, it is very close to the central train station, so it is ideal if after relaxing you want to continue your trip through Andalusia.
Spa of the Catalonia Santa Justa Hotel (© Catalonia Hotels).
SPAS IN MALAGA
THERMAL WATER SPAS
SPA OF TOLOX OR FUENTE AMARGOSA
The waters that supply this Andalusian spa have a temperature of 21 º, are clear and odorless and has dissolved nitrogen gas content that manifests itself in the bubbling. This content of inhaled gas makes it the only one in Spain specialized in respiratory system. Its waters emerge at 21º C, with a pH of 9.9 and density of 996.81; and contain carbonate, bicarbonate, chloride, sodium and magnesium. It is located very close to Malaga and the rest of the Costa del Sol.
Balneario de Tolox is located in a very special natural environment (© Balneario de Tolox).
FREE THERMAL WATERS
Near the town of Casares sulfurous waters rise to the surface. The place is known as the Baños de La Hedionda. La primera noticia de este lugar data del siglo XVIII, de cuando se presume que data la construcción. Para bañarte has de acceder a una especie de aljibe cubierto con bóvedas de ladrillo. Actualmente se encuentra rehabilitado y en buenas condiciones. Su acceso es gratuito, aunque debido a la gran afluencia de personas hay que reservar.
Baths of Vilo in Periana (© Diputación de Málaga).
Also excellently restored are the Baños de Vilo in Periana. Its waters are sulfhydric, magnesium-calcium and nitrogenous. In the first half of the 19th century a small spa with rooms was built, but today there are only a few visible remains of the building. Here the water flows at 21º and is attributed with curative properties for the skin.
Finally the baths of Las Majadas in Alcaucín is another spring of sulfurous waters that gush at 18º. According to some sources this spring was used as a bath in Andalusian times. Centuries later it was used as a laundry room. Nowadays the access is somewhat complicated.
THEMATIC SPAS
As it could not be less, in Malaga there are the typical options of Arab baths as usual. Hammam Al Andalus is the most authentic option, where you can immerse yourself in an environment designed to escape from reality. In addition, to heat both the rooms and the water, it uses a geothermal system, a pioneering experience in a private building in Spain.
Hammam al-Andalus in Malaga (© Hammam al-Andalus).
LUXURY SPAS
As in Seville, it is almost impossible to quantify the number of spas in Malaga. This province is eminently touristic and both on the coast and inland you will find large hotels with spas. Malaga is perhaps the province of Andalusia with the largest number of spas and the most luxurious ones. We are going to mention only some of the most prestigious ones.
BOTANIC SPA BY SISLEY
This boutique spa is located inside the Gran Hotel Miramar 5* GL. It has hydrotherapy circuits and different therapy rooms, as well as treatment cabins. A paradise of holistic sensations in the heart of Malaga dedicated to sensory wellness. This exclusive space is designed for relaxation and renewal of body and mind, becoming a true oasis of wellness created between the Andalusian tradition and the use of natural products of prestige.
Botanic Spa by Sisley, a luxury spa at the Gran Hotel Miramar (© Hoteles Santos).
LAS DUNAS SPA
The Hotel Las Dunas Grand Luxury 5* GL has one of the most spectacular and iconic spas on the Costa del Sol. It is a real oasis for relaxation and wellness of 3000 m², in an exclusive atmosphere and a unique location overlooking the sea. It has an impressive ice fountain, sauna, Turkish bath, jet pools, contrast showers, footbath, etc.. In addition, its list of health and beauty treatments is enormous and of the highest quality.
Hotel Las Dunas Spa (© Hoteles Santos).
ANANTARA VILLA PADIERNA PALACE RESORT
Another synonym of luxury in Marbella is the Anantara Villa Padierna. The spa of this hotel combines the concepts of Roman thermal baths and Arabic hammam with spectacular gardens. As for its services you can enjoy the best of each culture: Balinese and Indian-inspired steam treatments, Finnish and Greek sauna, Turkish bath, etc..
Seamless integration of spa and gardens at the Anantara Villa Padierna (© Anantara Hotels).
Other spas in the province of Malaga that you may love are the Six Sense Spa at the Hotel Puente Romano and the Spa at the Hotel Higueron Hotel.
SPAS OF CADIZ
THERMAL WATER SPAS
CHICLANA OR FUENTE AMARGA SPA
The Fuente Amarga Spa takes advantage of a spring of thermal waters in the town of Chiclana. Its origin dates back to the 19th century, when the wealthiest classes of the Cádiz society came in search of a place to rest and enjoy the medicinal properties of its waters.
Old marble bathtub of the Spa of Fuente Amarga (© Balneario de Chiclana).
THEMATIC SPAS
In the province of Cadiz there are three very interesting options to immerse yourself in al-Andalus: Hammam Andalusi in Jerez de la Frontera, Hammam Vejer in Vejer de la Frontera and Medina Mudejar in Sancti Petri. Any of them is a fantastic option to find a relaxing moment in your trip to Cadiz.
SPAS CONVENCINALES
As for conventional spas in Cadiz, we are going to mention three that we find very interesting: Senzia Spa, in Cadiz capital; Hipotels Barrosa Palace Spa, on the coast of Chiclana; and the spa of Meliá Zahara Resort & Villas, in Zahara de los Atunes.
SPAS OF HUELVA
In Hueva there are no options to enjoy thermal waters. In the town of Almonaster la Real (one of our favorite destinations in Huelva), there was a spa with medicinal mineral waters. It is the Balneario del Manzano and, although it was built at the beginning of the 20th century, it is currently closed.
CONVENTIONAL SPAS
However, there are numerous hotels on the coast of Huelva. Some of these large resorts have fantastic spas that are the delight of their visitors. In many of these places also offer experience to taste the rich gastronomy of Huelva. Os indicamos solo algunos de los que, a nuestro juicio, tienen mejores servicios y una decoración más exquisita.
SPA FUERTE EL ROMPIDO
The Spa at Hotel Fuerte El Rompido combines facial and body treatments with beauty and hairdressing treatments. It has ideal facilities to complete the wellness experience with hydrotherapy circuits. Here you will forget about everything and relax in the unique surroundings of the village of El Rompido.
Incredible heated swimming pool at Hotel Fuerte El Rompido (© Fuerte Hoteles).
WELLNESS SPA PUNTA UMBRÍA BARCELÓ
This large spa is designed for maximum comfort. With almost 2500 square meters of facilities, the wellness center of the Punta Umbria Beach Resort will seduce you completely. As usual, it has top quality services and a huge heated pool with hydrotherapy, whirlpool with water bed, sauna, etc.. As a complement you will enjoy the miles of beaches of Punta Umbria, as the hotel is located on the beachfront.
Spa at the Barceló Hotel in Punta Umbría (© Hoteles Barceló).
Other options to find the time to relax in the province of Huelva are Garden Playanatural Hotel & Spa in El Rompido, Hotel Convento Aracena & SPA, in Aracena and Senzia Spa & Wellness Playa Cartaya, in Cartaya.
ADD A SWIM IN ONE OF THESE IDYLLIC SPOTS TO YOUR TRIP
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BENEFITS OF THE THERMAL WATERS OF ANDALUSIAN SPAS
Hot springs are groundwaters that emerge to the surface at temperatures higher than the ambient temperature. They are formed when groundwater is heated by geothermal heat and rises to the surface. These waters are known for their therapeutic properties and are used in various health and wellness practices.
It can be stated that thermal baths produce a sedative effect. Relaxation helps to reduce muscle contractions and increases blood flow. The main consequence is the reduction of stress and anxiety.
In Andalusia thermal waters are used for relaxation therapies and health treatments, they are used in physiotherapy and rehabilitation to relieve joint and muscle pain. Another of its main uses is skin care, some thermal waters are rich in minerals that can benefit the skin, helping in conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
Andalusia is home to the four types of thermal waters that exist.
- Sulfurous waters: contain sulfur, known for its anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties. They are useful for respiratory problems, joint and skin pains.
- Mineral waters: rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium and bicarbonate, they are beneficial for bone and cardiovascular health. They contribute to digestive health and strengthen the immune system.
- Radioactive waters: contain radioactive elements in small quantities, which are believed to help in the treatment of chronic diseases.
- Ferruginous waters: rich in iron, they are used to treat anemia and improve circulation. They benefit the production of red blood cells and improve energy.
In Andalusia there are three types of thermal waters depending on their temperature: cold (less than 20 °C), hypothermal (20-35 °C), mesothermal (35-45 °C) and hyperthermal (45-100 °C). The only ones that are not present in Andalusia are superthermal waters, which gush forth at more than 100 °C.
We are sorry, but the Termas de Carratraca in Malaga is permanently closed, a pity!
WHEN TO VISIT THE SPAS OF ANDALUSIA
Actually this is an easy question, any time is a good time to visit spas or spas in Andalusia. However, we always insist that autumn, spring or even winter are the best times to experience Andalusia. En España se concentran las vacaciones durante los meses de julio y agosto, meses en los que los colegios permanecen cerrados. Durante este periodo casi todos los lugares turísticos de Andalucía tienen una gran afluencia de gente, por lo que encontrar disponibilidad para determinados servicios puede resultar complicado.
Now that you know a little more about the spas and spas in Andalusia,
it’s time to organize your trip.
MAP OF SPAS AND SPAS OF ANDALUSIA
In this map you will find the location of all the spas in Andalusia that we have talked about in the post. Have a good trip!
