The Alhama de Granada thermal springs: a natural swimming pool

Embraced by the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama Nature Reserve, the town of Alhama de Granada was conquered by Romans, Moors and Christians. The abundant natural resources made it one of the most transcendental cities in the Kingdom of Granada. So many centuries of glory have left numerous remains of great cultural interest all over the historic town centre which was declared a Historical-Artistic Site.

But if there is one treasure that makes a visit to this town in Granada with a little over 6,000 inhabitants mandatory, then this must be the spas. In natural surroundings and at any time of year, you can enjoy a therapeutic bath at a temperature of 47º centigrade absolutely free of charge, because the thermal springs have been declared to be of public use.

Plunge into a spring of well-being

A stroll from the town of Alhama de Granada to the spa is all you need. It's only about a 30-minute walk and everyone says how spectacular the landscape is. Once there, you're ready to plunge into the spring, surrounded by nature, flanked by pine trees and for a roof all you have are the clear skies. It's the ideal place to enjoy a session of relaxation, in perfect harmony with the ecosystem, as the waters provide have a great number of medicinal benefits and are suitable for treating arthritis, rheumatism and stress.

After bathing, the surroundings are ideal for exploring and you can ”lose yourself” in the surrounding exuberant flora. In the surrounding area there is variety of multi-adventure activities available for groups. The local company called Sportnatura organises routes for caving and canyoning which will bring you close up to the beauty of the Tajos de Alhama de Granada, where you'll discover extraordinary natural surroundings consisting of canyons and sandstone gorges which surprise anyone who comes across them for the first time. On the visit you are accompanied by specialist technical guides, you'll have all the necessary personal equipment and be insured against civil liability and accidents. Those who are a little less adventurous may prefer archery or hiking routes in the company of a guide/interpreter.

Alhama for ecological enjoyment

Very near the thermal springs you'll find the Alhama Hotel Spa, a three star hotel located in a building of great architectural value and which is part of the historical heritage of Andalusia. The thermal spring which fills the wells also feeds the spa, where you can enjoy a number of different treatments. 

In the El Molinillo rural complex, just 20 km from the natural springs, you'll find a wide range of delights for tourists and for which the motto is sustainable tourism: relax in comfortable rural accommodation, take part in guided tours to the Tejada Nature Reserve and sample the exquisite local cuisine, featuring dishes made from organic products produced in the region. Don't miss the chance to try the extra virgin wine olive oil and the wines with Protected Designation of Origin.

The Alhama thermal springs and their virtues impose a leisurely pace, essential for restoring health to mind and body. There's no hurry, that's how the goats milk cheeses are made and organic vegetable gardens cultivated in places like the El Ventorro Guest House, a rural complex up in the mountains offering you the chance to sleep in cave dwellings, relax in its own spa and enjoy all the good things that Granada has to offer.

Another great place to try is the Pato Loco Grill, surrounded by the crystalline waters of the Alhama River, home to hundreds of ducks. The Alhama cured meats and fabulous, locally-produced cheeses are always a firm favourite.