Soak for free in Granada's hidden thermal pool with ancient healing waters

Natural mineral baths, dramatic scenery and a splash of history at the Zújar hot springs

Tucked away in the province of Granada is a little-known natural wonder that’s completely free to enjoy – the thermal springs of Zújar.

This open-air hot pool, fed by mineral-rich water from the Cerro Jabalcón mountainside, has been soothing bodies for over 2,000 years. Even the Roman author Pliny the Elder mentioned these thermal baths, making them one of Spain’s oldest known wellness spots.

Today, the Baths of Zújar form a striking natural pool around 30 metres long and 12 metres wide, with a depth of up to two metres. The turquoise waters rise at around 40 degrees Celsius from an underground fault and are naturally full of minerals said to help ease everything from skin conditions and rheumatism to gout and endocrine issues.

In fact, according to the regional tourism board, “Since 1928, mineral-medicinal waters have been declared and are indicated for various pathologies; rheumatological, bronchopulmonary, excretory apparatus, mouth diseases, endocrine and metabolic, cardiovascular, neurological and gynaecological.”

The pool sits right by the Negratín reservoir, surrounded by dramatic red rock cliffs and rugged hills. It’s a peaceful, beautiful spot,especially early in the morning or just before sunset. Although the old spa buildings now lie underwater due to the creation of the reservoir and dam in the 1980s, the springs themselves are still bubbling away and open to all.

To find the baths, head to the village of Zújar near Baza, about 110 kilometres from Granada city. From there, follow Avenida de los Baños for around 8km until you reach the swamp, then continue another 2km along the Camino de los Baños towards the Restaurante Baños. Just beside it, there’s a dirt track that leads you down to the water’s edge.

If you fancy a more traditional spa experience, you can also visit the nearby Balneario de Zújar, which uses the same healing waters in a more structured setting.

And if you’re looking to make a day of it, the Negratín reservoir is worth exploring in its own right. Known as a paradise in the highlands of Granada, it offers unique accommodation options and a host of outdoor activities like kayaking, paddle surfing and even archery. It’s part of the Granada Geopark and just a short drive from the Natural Parks of Castril and Cazorla.

So whether you're after a soothing soak, stunning views or just a quiet escape into nature, the Zújar thermal pool is another hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Image: Google Maps