When the heat in Malaga is on, we look to cool off in any way we can. Most opt for the beach and pool, but there are also other very nice options hidden in the interior of the province: the natural pools in Malaga.
In this article we present some of the most beautiful natural pools in Malaga and also two medicinal water springs.
- No refuelling fee
- Free cancellation
- Hire without intermediaries
- Pay when you pick up your car
Table of Contents
Natural pools in Malaga
It’s true, it’s obviously easier to grab your towel and gear and flop into the nearest pool and beach, like thousands and thousands of other people do to cool off during the hot months in Malaga.
Taking a car and traveling along secondary roads and then having to walk a stretch is certainly more attractive for people who enjoy active tourism in nature.
The reward is crystal clear waters surrounded by vegetation in the middle of nature, in the best natural pools in the province of Malaga.
Charco Frío – Benaoján
In Serranía de Ronda is located the karst formation of Cueva del Gato, distinguished as a Natural Monument of Andalusia.
The water seeping through the subsoil has created the impressive Hundidero-Gato caves.
Charco Frio, a deep and wide natural pool, is also located there. Its name comes from the very low temperature of its waters, which will undoubtedly cool you off.
The natural pool is located just 1.5 km from the white village of Benaoján, which preserves the essence of an Arab town, with narrow streets and whitewashed houses.
Near the pond there is also a barbecue area, making the area quite popular in the summer months.
- Description of the route in Wikiloc
- How to get there
Charco del Canalón – Istán
This natural pool is located about 25 km from Marbella in the municipality of Istán in Sierra de las Nieves.
This pool is formed from the Río Verde, surrounded by lush vegetation. The pool is very deep and is surrounded by rocks with very few places to hold on.
It is not suitable for those who do not know how to swim. A few meters further down we find more accessible pools.
The beginning of the Charco del Canalón Trail is located 5 km from the centre of the village, which we can access on foot or by vehicle.
The entire stretch to the river is on a lane closed to unauthorized vehicles.
- Description of the route in Wikiloc
- How to get there
Arroyo del Quejigo – Jubrique
This natural pool is hidden in the heart of Sierra Bermeja, about 28 km from Estepona.
Don’t let the seemingly few kilometres fool you. To get there you go along secondary roads with endless curves, entering the Spanish fir forests.
Arroyo de Quejigo is located in the municipality of Jubrique and is also known as Charco Azul or Charco Encantado.
You can take advantage of the visit and discover the charming village Genalguacil, which is also known as the open-air museum village.
- Description of the route in GPSMalaga
- How to get there
Charca de las Nutrias – Estepona
Located in the municipal area, this pool is located in the Rio del Castor.
The route runs along the riverbed.
The river is very cool and there are several pools where you can swim, in addition to the pool itself.
From July 1 to mid-September, you must leave your car or motorcycle in an area 3 km from the site and continue by bicycle or on foot to the ponds.
Depending on the pools you want to see, you will have to go through rocky areas and some are quite slippery (wear good footwear).
Please note that shade is scarce, so be sure to bring enough drinking water and sun protection.
- Description of the route in Wikiloc
- How to get there
Poza Macias – Yunquera
On the slopes of the Sierra de las Nieves National Park, in the middle of Spanish Fir forests and near the source of the Rio Grande, this pool is located.
Since you have to walk a stretch along the river through the vegetation, it is not usually too crowded.
This pool will definitely cool you down in summer, since its water is very cold. You have to follow the river for about 300 meters from the Fabrica de la Luz de San Pascual.
Wear shoes with good grip.
- Description of the route in Wikiloc
- How to get there
Medicinal pools in Malaga
Baños de Vilo – Periana
Hidden in the mountains of Axarquía, this ancient bath of Arab origin is located about 4 km from the white village of Periana, just over 610 meters above sea level.
The waters of this bath are known for their medicinal properties to treat skin diseases. They are hydrogen sulphide (that is, it smells quite bad), magnesium-calcium and nitrogenous.
They have a constant temperature of 21 degrees throughout the year.
The spring was very popular since Roman and Arab times. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the bath was an exclusive spa destination.
Currently there is only a small pool.
Baños de Hedonia – Casares
About 15 km by car from Estepona are these Baths with medicinal waters, where legend has it that Julio Cesar cured his herpes after immersing himself in their waters.
We do not know if this is true, but we do know that its sulphurous waters, with a strong sulphur smell, have a very beneficial effect on health.
Due to its great popularity, especially in summer, the town hall regulates parking and access to the area.
Access
To avoid overcrowding, there is a capacity limitation in the venue to 24 people.
Therefore, it will be mandatory to make a reservation to access it during peak hours, established from 12 to 7 pm from July 2 to September 9.
Tickets are completely free and for a period of one hour. You can book through the following links:
;)
Typical Summer fines driving in Spain – Myths and Facts;)
Tips for Driving in Summer in Malaga;)
Things to do in Malaga in February 2024