Ourense, Capital of Thermalism

Ourense, Thermal Capital of Galicia

The immense wealth of thermal waters that Ourense treasures has turned this city into the Thermal Capital of Galicia. A flow of more than 3 million litres of thermal water flows every day through numerous springs distributed throughout the municipality.

A true natural treasure that has positioned the city of Ourense as one of the main European destinations for health tourism, and one of the few Spanish cities integrated into the European Itinerary of Historical Thermal Towns.

Here you will find everything you need to know about the Ourense hot springs:
– Where does the water come from?
– Benefits of hot springs
– History of the thermal baths
– As Burgas
– Thermal Promenade
– Admision fees and regulations
– How to get to the hot springs
– Learn more about the hot springs

Nature’s Bounty

In Ourense, nature’s magic transforms rainwater into warm waters with appreciated mineral-medicinal properties. A geological miracle that is due to the peculiarities of the Ourense subsoil, as well as a unique process that takes place kilometres underground and takes several years to complete. The result is an authentic gift from nature: pure waters with mineral-medicinal properties that spring directly from the interior of the earth and that stand out for their high temperatures.

Each thermal spring has its own characteristics that are a consequence of the journey that waters take from the interior of the earth to reach the surface. The water boils and, as it rises, filters through the fractures on Earth’s crust, from which it absorbs minerals (selenium, sulfur, sodium, fluorine…) and acquires different temperatures, which in some cases exceed 70ºC.

Benefits of Hot Springs

Tradition attributes its own virtues to each spring, and some neighbours praise the properties of its waters to cure all types of ailments and beauty treatments… There is still much to investigate in this aspect, but its indisputable benefits for well-being cannot be denied: its warm temperatures relax muscles and help you chill.

Ourense’s thermal baths of are spaces for recreational use that contribute to relaxation and well-being.

Secular Thermal Tradition

The use of thermal waters has accompanied Ourense throughout its history. It was the Romans who, attracted by these waters, decided to settle around the area of As Burgas, giving rise to a small town in which they built spas and a sanctuary devoted to the divinities of these waters. Next to the remains of this temple, many votive altars were found; most of them were dedicated to indigenous gods, which reveals that these waters were venerated even before the Roman origin of the city.

Thermal Baths All Year Round

Currently there are several thermal spaces for recreational use, with open-air hot water pools, both in the urban centre and around river Miño. They remain open all year round, so you can enjoy pleasant baths in their warm waters even on cold and rainy days (an experience not to be missed).

As Burgas: Thermal History in Downtown Ourense

Very close to the Main Square are As Burgas, the hot springs around which the city was born. In its emblematic fountains you can feel the heat of its springs and find out about history. Here you can walk among the ruins of the ancient Roman spa and sanctuary, or even emulate the baths of that time, immersing yourself into its thermal pool.

Thermal Promenade: Lush Nature

The peaceful banks of river Miño River are home to the Thermal Promenade, a green corridor that extends for 4 kilometres and is characterized by its concentration of mineral-medicinal springs. A paradise of well-being where nature is integrated with body and health care.
Here are the thermal baths of A Chavasqueira, Muíño da Veiga, Outariz and Burga de Canedo, as well as the O Tinteiro source.

Pleasure and Health for All Budgets

In Ourense, thermal baths are an affordable luxury for everyone: they are either free or have very popular prices. It is important to know its regulations, especially if you are travelling with children as there is a minimum age for access. It is necessary to bring swimwear, flip flops and a towel. All thermal spaces are equipped with changing rooms.

On the other hand, before using these facilities it is advisable to consult with your doctor, particularly if you suffer from any ailment or are undergoing any treatment.

How to Get to the Hot Springs

In Ourense there are two thermal areas: As Burgas, in the historical part; and the Thermal Promenade, on the banks of river Miño. As Burgas is very close to the Main Square and can be easily reached by car or public transport (the closest bus stop is Alameda).

The Thermal Promenade is furthest from the urban centre (the closest end is 2 km away and the farthest is 6 km). It is a pedestrian area, although it has several authorized parking lots and public transport options. All the detailed information to get to the hot springs can be consulted on this website..

Learn More About Ourense’s Hot Springs

Here you have in more detail all the information about the Ourense hot springs:

Ourense’s Thermal Baths

Find the list with all the thermal spaces for recreational use in Ourense, both in the city centre and on the Thermal Promenade. Choose the baths and hot springs that you prefer on this link.

How to Get There

Everything you need to know to get to the Ourense hot springs, on foot, by car or public transport (both the Thermal Train and regular bus lines). More information on this link.

Tips for Your Bath

Recommendations to enjoy a bath in the Ourense hot springs. Suggestions for before and after bathing. Requirements and minimum age for access and other information of interest. More information on this link.

Current State of the Hot Springs

Updated information on the hot springs that are operational and their opening hours. More information on this link.