Best natural swimming pools in Spain for a refreshing dip
By Jeff Pillou
Spain is home to a great variety of natural swimming pools, river pools and coastal formations perfect for cooling off during the hot season. These spots are spread all over the country and provide crystal-clear water surrounded by mountains, forests or volcanic rocks. From freshwater pools in lush valleys to unique saltwater basins on the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts, this collection brings together some of the most inviting places to experience authentic outdoor swimming in Spain.
Alicante, Spain
A set of river-fed pools and waterfalls near Callosa d’en Sarrià, ideal for families and nature lovers.
Cáceres, Spain
Well-known river gorge with clear pools formed by waterfalls and natural slides in Jerte Valley.
Castellón, Spain
Thermal river pools with year-round warm water, surrounded by canyons near Montanejos village.
Cuenca, Spain
A sequence of turquoise pools and cascading falls on the Cabriel River, suitable for swimming and hiking.
Madrid, Spain
Three spacious natural pools along the Lozoya River, nestled in the Sierra de Guadarrama.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
Group of seaside volcanic rock pools formed by ancient lava flows in northwest Tenerife.
Las Palmas, Spain
Series of wild tide pools along Playa Blanca created by volcanic activity, perfect for swimmers.
Ávila, Spain
Recreational river pools equipped for visitors, located near Arenas de San Pedro.
Girona, Spain
Emerald-colored pool at the base of a waterfall, accessible by hiking through La Garrotxa.
Girona, Spain
Mountain pool with a mix of rocky and grassy surroundings in the Garrotxa area.
Pontevedra, Spain
Pools and cascades sculpted by rivers in Serra da Groba, reached after a forest walk.
Málaga, Spain
A hidden river pool fed by Río Chíllar, surrounded by pine woods and popular for summer walks.
Las Palmas, Spain
Set of interconnected saltwater pools next to the ocean, safe for all ages.
Cáceres, Spain
Freshwater pools near Acebo village, easy to reach and fitted with public amenities.
Teruel, Spain
Chilled river pools nestled between rugged hills in the Maestrazgo region.
Madrid, Spain
Tranquil river basin set in the countryside west of Madrid, framed by greenery and rocks.
Granada, Spain
Wild swimming spot in Río Verde, known for its clean water and surrounding woodland.
Burgos, Spain
Large pool below a wide waterfall where it is possible to swim in fresh water.
Girona, Spain
A chain of secluded pools and cascades located in wooded valleys of La Garrotxa.
Valencia, Spain
Group of clear pools shaped by the Clariano River, close to Ontinyent, suited for summer swims.
Ávila, Spain
Cool granite pools in the Sierra de Gredos, reached by a short hike from Navarredonda.
Sevilla, Spain
Series of natural pools and small waterfalls in San Nicolás del Puerto, ideal for swimming.
Pontevedra, Spain
Notable waterfall creating a large pond at the base, surrounded by forest in Silleda.
Cáceres, Spain
Low-key river pool in the Tajo valley, located inside Monfragüe National Park.
Cádiz, Spain
Wide pool under a historical mill, offering calm water close to Grazalema Natural Park.
Ávila, Spain
Two accessible swimming areas on the Alberche River, surrounded by mountains and meadows.
Pontevedra, Spain
Freshwater pools with tiny waterfalls, found in the O Rosal area, a good spot for families.
Huesca, Spain
Small yet deep pool in the Ara River, located in Broto Valley, popular among locals.
Guadalajara, Spain
Ancient salt pans with shallow basins used as informal swimming pools in rural Castilla-La Mancha.
Salamanca, Spain
Stream pools located near Candelario, highlighted by cold waters and mountain views.
