Ourense is a city marked by the presence of thermal waters. It has been named ‘thermal capital‘ because it has a large number of springs, pools and natural pools that have attracted visitors since Roman times.
The name of this Galician capital could have its origin in thermalism, since some theories point out that it comes from the Latin ‘aquae urente’, scorching waters, in reference to the existence of hot springs. The Romans were great fans of these waters and took advantage of their benefits with bath houses, such as As Burgas.
According to the latest geological studies, there would be more than 70 springs throughout Ourense, which would place this territory as the second with more hot springs in Europe, behind Budapest.
Its baths are ideal to enjoy the arrival of cold and bad weather characteristic of autumn and winter in Galicia. Therefore, we invite you to discover the thermal baths of Ourense so that you can make the most of your visit.
Outariz thermal baths
The Outariz thermal station is one of the most famous in Ourense. Privately managed, it has a Zen circuit inspired by the ‘onsen’ culture of Japanese spas. You can see oval stone and wooden constructions reminiscent of the Asian style and are specifically designed for relaxation and meditation.
It also has another Celtic circuit influenced by the architecture of the castros typical of Galician lands, designed to eliminate contractures and muscular tensions.
The Outariz thermal baths have a capacity for 180 people, with 11 outdoor and 3 indoor pools. They are priced at 6.4 € and are open every day except Tuesdays.
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A Chavasqueira
A Chavasqueira is a free thermal station located very close to the center of Ourense, so it is very easy to access. It is in the Paseo Termal de Ourense, a pedestrian path on the banks of the Miño and, as its name suggests, has multiple thermal areas.
These thermal baths are composed of open-air stone pools that, like those of Outariz, reproduce the Japanese ‘onsen’ style. They have two saunas and massage services and beauty treatments.
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Muíño da Veiga
This space is located next to an old mill that gives it its name. Like A Chavasqueira, it is part of the Paseo Termal de Ourense, in the bed of the Miño river.
It is made up of five pools of different sizes and temperatures, ranging from 65 °C to 72 °C. The area has changing rooms with lockers and toilets. In addition, access is free with limited capacity, from 10 am to 8 pm.
The Muíño da Veiga thermal baths are in a pedestrian area, but you can also get there by car or public transport.
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Outariz and Burga de Canedo
The thermal baths of Outariz and Burga de Canedo are the largest in the city, with multiple facilities along the right bank of the Miño River and are completely free of charge.
They are divided into two sections. The first, Outariz, has one glass of cold water and three hot ones. The Burga de Canedo section has one cold water pool and three double hot pools.
The area has changing rooms and toilets available to bathers. In order to access, it is mandatory to bring a towel, bathing suit and flip-flops. Children under 10 years of age are not allowed.
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As Burgas thermal pool
The thermal facility of As Burgas is located in the center of Ourense and is unique in Spain for its almost 200 m² of thermal water in the open air. Its waters gush at more than 60 °C and have been used for centuries for their therapeutic properties.
In fact, the Romans enjoyed these same waters during their conquest of Galicia and built a bathhouse next to the current pool, the remains of which are in the As Burgas Interpretation Center.
The thermal pool of As Burgas is free of charge and has changing rooms and lockers. Unfortunately, this facility has been closed since the pandemic until further notice.
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The Thermal Train
All these hot springs are very close to the center of Ourense and can be reached either by car or on foot. But if you want to have an unbeatable experience, we recommend you to use the Thermal Train. This transport departs from the Plaza Mayor and stops at all the thermal facilities of the city. On its way, you will cross historical areas restricted to other vehicles, such as the Roman Bridge.
It takes about 40 minutes to cover the 6 kilometers of the route. You have more information in this link.
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Make the most of the thermal capital
One of the best options to stay in Ourense is the Hotel Carrís Cardenal Quevedo. This four-star accommodation consists of two old buildings completely renovated in the center of the Ourense capital.
Its modern and elegant rooms have everything you need to rest after a long day visiting the thermal baths of the city. Book your room now by clicking here.
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