The valleys of the rivers Cidacos and Alhama are south-east of La Rioja. This area is rich in hot springs and thermal waters, and is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. With three spas and several outdoor swimming pools within a 50 kilometre radius, we are in the “hot springs route of La Rioja”, a sensational natural well-being experience.
Arnedillo, home of hot springs
The trip begins in the village of Arnedillo, where the thermal waters have been known since Roman times. From the village there is a 600 metre walk along the bank of the river Cidacos to the hot springs, the spa and the public baths. These outdoor pools fed by the hot springs are free to use. The water temperature ranges from 38º to 48º C, getting gradually hotter as you move through the pools. Some people also bathe in the river for the relaxing and toning effects of the alternating hot and cold. It’s an amazing feeling to immerse yourself in the hot water in winter, with a beautiful mountain landscape in the background.
