Termal Route Miño Riverside Walk
Ourense's Miño Riverside Thermal Route offers free, natural hot springs along the river, known for their therapeutic waters and year-round accessibili...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful soak
Termal Route Miño Riverside Walk
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful soak

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ourense's Miño Riverside Thermal Route offers free, natural hot springs along the river, known for their therapeutic waters and year-round accessibility.
"Many of the Burgas have free access, allowing you to enjoy the thermal waters surrounded by nature."
Check Spring Status First
Some springs can close due to weather like river floods . Always check locally before heading out.
Not a Continuous Trail
Expect asphalt sections and highway views between some springs . Focus on individual spots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

A Chavasqueira Hot Springs
Start of the route
The first thermal spring you'll encounter, offering a welcoming introduction to Ourense's thermal waters.

Muíño da Veiga Thermal Complex
Along the Miño River
A complex of thermal pools, though its maintenance and accessibility have seen recent discussions and controversies .

Open-Air Thermal Pools
Various points along the route
Enjoy natural, hot springs surrounded by nature, with some reaching temperatures of 60-70°C .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Thermal Bliss
Navigating the Thermal Route
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Spring Status First
Some springs can close due to weather like river floods.
Always check locally before heading out.Not a Continuous Trail
Expect asphalt sections and highway views between some springs.
Focus on individual spots.Varying Temperatures
Some pools can be very hot (up to 70°C)!
Test the water carefully before fully immersing.Bring Your Own Towel
Essentials like towels and swimwear are a must for enjoying the thermal waters.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Spring Status First
Some springs can close due to weather like river floods.
Always check locally before heading out.Not a Continuous Trail
Expect asphalt sections and highway views between some springs.
Focus on individual spots.Varying Temperatures
Some pools can be very hot (up to 70°C)!
Test the water carefully before fully immersing.Bring Your Own Towel
Essentials like towels and swimwear are a must for enjoying the thermal waters.
Respect Local Rules
Be mindful of any posted signs or regulations at the thermal sites.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the unique experience of Ourense's natural hot springs, with many offering free access and therapeutic waters. However, some find the 'route' itself less scenic than expected, with asphalt sections and highway views, and note that maintenance of certain facilities can be an issue.
"Four kilometers of green trail with up to seven hot springs, many of them suitable for swimming. These waters can be enjoyed year-round."
FRUGOcio
"A real disappointment. The thermal walk is not as they tell you... If you start at the Chavasqueria hot springs, you will see these hot springs and you will think you are following a tree-lined walk along the banks of the river. Well no, you go along an asphalt road, on the right the highway and on the left, trees (which they only let you see). A very long walk without any delight. The first toilets are very far away. At the end of the path you reach two hot springs next to each other. to the bridge.
If you want to see some hot springs or use them, go specifically to them, but don't go from one to the other if you want to see a beautiful landscape."
Pp
"I must reconsider and retract something I myself wrote regarding the use of the Muiño da Veiga hot springs in Orense.
My misinformation, in part, consisted of attributing responsibility for the maintenance of the four thermal pools that make up the Muiño thermal complex to the Xunta.
I had my doubts that Mayor Jácome was the defender of the thermal waters I thought he was, and I expressed this in a review. But given the farce and the scene he put on with his bath in Muiño da Veiga accompanied by the thermal councilor—video included—I have no choice but to admit my misinformation.
Jácome appreciated the flowery "ode" I dedicated to him at that event; I did so with conviction, and I'm sure the mayor, if he read it or heard about it, must have laughed his head off and thought...! Look, they've bought it! (About his interest in the hot spring in question). Yes, Mayor, I swallowed the charade. But I tell you: one and no more. Whoever pulls a fast one on me will pay. I return to my usual thoughts about your management of the City Council, which remains uniformly and permanently negative.
I don't want to enter the realm of political disqualifications for your failure as a public manager.
You, Mr. Jácome, know the sector you come from as a musical instrument seller; I don't doubt it. But your knowledge and municipal management are hard to digest. You have advisors for almost everything, who prevent your constant blunders from being disguised or their effects mitigated. But despite this, you bring up your political Caesarism whenever you can.
When you returned from the United States of America (that was I don't know how long ago), you made us believe you had acquired valuable knowledge that could be extrapolated to your City and proclaimed yourself an economic liberal. What a political troll you were and still are! You keep pulling the wool over our eyes...like with the hot springs.
Look, as the kids say, get rid of me, because I no longer believe in anything, or almost anything, that comes from you.
I would ask the people of Ourense if this is the mayor Ourense needs. The answer is personal, everyone's own. Mine, without being asked, I say no.
."
José Luis Fernández García
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The route is accessible from Ourense city. You can start at A Chavasqueira, which is often the first thermal spring encountered. Public transport within Ourense can get you close to various points along the Miño river. Many visitors also arrive by car and find parking near the access points.
Parking availability can vary. Some areas near the thermal springs may have designated parking, but it can get busy. Consider using public transport or walking from the city center if you're staying nearby.
You can walk between many of the thermal springs, but be aware that some sections of the 'route' are along asphalt roads with highway views, not continuous scenic trails.
It's more about visiting individual thermal spots.Parts of the riverside path might be suitable for cycling, but the mixed terrain (asphalt roads, potentially unpaved paths) means it's not a dedicated cycle path. Check local conditions for the best cycling experience.
The springs are spread out along the Miño River. Starting at A Chavasqueira and working your way along the river is a common approach. Some visitors prefer to drive to specific springs they want to visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Many of the 'Burgas' (hot springs) along the Miño Riverside Thermal Route, like A Chavasqueira, offer free access.
However, always check for any specific entry fees or regulations at each location.Most of the natural thermal springs are open 24/7, allowing year-round enjoyment. However, specific facilities or managed complexes might have set hours. It's advisable to check locally, especially after any weather-related closures.
For the free, open-air thermal springs, no advance booking is typically required. If there are any managed thermal complexes with specific services, it's best to check their individual booking policies.
The 'walk' itself is a public area along the river. The main thermal springs along this route, such as A Chavasqueira, are generally free to access.
Specific facilities might have charges.Occasionally, thermal baths can be closed due to weather events like river flooding.
If you find a spring closed, explore other accessible ones along the route or check local news for updates.🎫 🌡️ Onsite Experience
Definitely bring your swimsuit, a towel, and flip-flops or water shoes. Some visitors also bring a robe for comfort between pools. Staying hydrated is also a good idea.
The temperatures can vary significantly. Some springs can reach very high temperatures, between 60-70°C,
while others are more moderately warm. Always test the water before entering.The experience is mixed. While some parts offer lovely riverside views and natural settings,
other sections involve walking along asphalt roads with views of the highway. Focus on the individual thermal springs for the best experience.Facilities can be limited and spread out. Some of the larger thermal complexes might have them, but for the open-air springs, it's best to be prepared to change discreetly or use facilities at the start/end points. The first toilets can be quite far apart.
It's a stretch along the Miño River in Ourense featuring several natural hot springs, or 'Burgas,' with medicinal waters. It's known as the 'thermal capital of Galicia'.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Ourense city itself offers a wide range of dining options. Some areas along the river might have cafes or bars, but for a full meal, it's best to head into the city center.
Generally, you can bring your own snacks and water. However, it's always good practice to clean up after yourself and dispose of any waste properly to keep the natural areas clean.
Ourense is known for its Galician cuisine. Look for seafood dishes, 'pulpo a la gallega' (Galician-style octopus), 'empanada gallega' (Galician pie), and local wines like Ribeiro.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the steam rising from the hot springs, especially during cooler mornings or evenings. The riverside setting and the contrast of the natural landscape with the thermal waters can be very photogenic.
Yes, many visitors share photos and videos of their experiences.
Be mindful of other visitors and respect their privacy. The natural light can be beautiful, especially during the golden hours.A smartphone with a good camera is sufficient for most shots. If you're serious about photography, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the landscape, and a waterproof case might be a good idea near the water.
Generally, no specific restrictions apply to public areas. However, always be considerate of others and avoid intrusive photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the 'walk' itself might not be a continuous, engaging trail for younger children due to asphalt sections, the novelty of the hot springs can be exciting. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities can be sparse. Consider visiting during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, for a more relaxed family outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, pack your own food and drinks, as dining options directly along the route can be limited or more expensive. Utilize public transport to reach the starting points of the route, and focus on the free-access springs. Remember to bring your own towel and swimwear to avoid rental fees.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
It's a great opportunity to disconnect and enjoy some personal time. Be mindful of your belongings, especially in more public areas. If you're looking for social interaction, the more popular springs might offer opportunities to chat with other visitors, but many solo travelers appreciate the quiet contemplation the thermal waters provide.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ourense Thermal Experience
While the idea of a continuous 'walk' might conjure images of a pristine nature trail, the reality is a bit more varied. The route connects several thermal spots, but some sections involve walking along asphalt roads, with views of the highway on one side and trees on the other. This means visitors should focus on visiting individual springs like A Chavasqueira or the Muíño da Veiga complex, rather than expecting a purely scenic, uninterrupted hike between them. The true charm lies in the thermal waters themselves and the natural setting they inhabit.
Recent discussions and reviews highlight that the maintenance and accessibility of some thermal areas, like Muíño da Veiga, have been subjects of debate. It's also important to be aware that some springs can reach very high temperatures, up to 70°C, so caution is advised. Despite these nuances, the allure of soaking in naturally heated waters, often for free, makes the Ourense thermal experience a compelling draw for many visitors.
Navigating the Miño Riverside Thermal Route
To make the most of your visit, it's recommended to research the specific thermal springs you wish to visit beforehand. Each spring may offer a slightly different experience and temperature. For instance, the Muíño da Veiga complex is a notable area, though its upkeep has been a topic of discussion. Planning your route to target these specific points rather than expecting a seamless journey between them will lead to a more satisfying experience.
Practical advice from travelers suggests checking the status of the springs, especially after adverse weather, as river flooding can cause temporary closures. While many springs are free to access, be prepared with essentials like swimwear and towels. The varying temperatures of the waters also mean testing them carefully before entering is a must.
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