Pozas de Loureza, Swimming area in Loureza, Oia, Spain.
Pozas de Loureza are natural swimming pools created where the Tamuxe River flows through granite rock formations, forming multiple bathing holes with varying depths. The landscape around them is mountainous and forested, keeping the water cool and clear throughout the seasons.
Locals have used this spot for swimming and leisure for generations, showing the deep connection between the community and the river valley. Ancient mills that once operated along the Tamuxe demonstrate how water has powered human activity in this region for centuries.
The pools serve as a gathering spot where visitors and locals come to swim and refresh, with certain zones traditionally used by nude swimmers who follow local guidelines and community practices.
Reaching the pools requires a demanding hike through forested terrain, so sturdy footwear and caution on slippery rocks are essential for safety. The path crosses the river multiple times, making water-resistant shoes or willingness to wade advisable.
The granite rocks have been shaped by water erosion over centuries, revealing distinctive stone patterns and natural channels that guide water flow through the site. This geological formation remains less discovered than other swimming destinations in the region, resulting in fewer visitors on most days.
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