Caldas de Reis is one of the most comforting stops on the Camino de Santiago in its Portuguese route. Famous for its thermal waters, it offers pilgrims an ideal place to rest, relax, and recharge before continuing their journey to Santiago. Located in the province of Pontevedra, Galicia, this small town is known for its medicinal mineral waters, which have been valued since Roman times.
The Roman past of Caldas de Reis is evident, with its bridge where the Camino passes
Caldas de Reis: from Aquae Celenae to thermal town
Caldas de Reis has a long thermal tradition, dating back to Roman times. Back then, the town was known as Aquae Celenae, due to its sulfurous waters. Even in antiquity, the waters of Caldas were recognized for their healing properties, especially for skin and respiratory ailments. Over the centuries, the town grew to become an important wellness destination, which led it to become a renowned thermal town.
Throughout the centuries, the thermal waters of Caldas have been a refuge for kings, nobles, and travelers. In the 19th century, the town’s spa was already considered one of the most prestigious in Galicia. Today, this rich tradition remains alive, and Caldas de Reis is still one of the leading thermal destinations in Galicia, especially for pilgrims seeking a break on their route.
Church of Caldas de Reis
Mineral-medicinal thermal waters: properties and benefits of sulfurous waters
The thermal waters of Caldas de Reis are known for their high mineral concentration, particularly sulfur. This component gives the waters therapeutic properties that help treat a variety of health issues. The sulfurous waters have a relaxing and detoxifying effect, making them the ideal treatment to relieve muscle fatigue and accumulated tension during the Camino.
The sulfur in Caldas’ waters has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects, making them an excellent option for treating skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Additionally, the thermal waters of Caldas are highly beneficial for relieving joint and muscle pain, common among pilgrims who walk long distances. These waters are also known to improve blood circulation, which aids in the body’s recovery after a day of exertion.
The benefits of Caldas’ thermal waters are not limited to physical health. Their ability to induce a deep sense of relaxation also supports emotional and mental well-being. Pilgrims who choose to stop in Caldas de Reis can enjoy a complete rest experience, improving not only their body but also their mood.
Bridge over the Umia River
Historic spas, fountains, and laundromats
In Caldas de Reis, pilgrims can enjoy two historic spas that continue to use the thermal waters in their treatments. These places not only offer a space for physical well-being but also allow visitors to immerse themselves in the rich thermal tradition of the region.
Acuña Spa
The Acuña Spa, also a hotel and located at the entrance of the town from the Portuguese Camino, is one of the most well-known in the city. This spa stands out for its mineral-medicinal waters, sodium bicarbonate chloride, with therapeutic properties, declared of Public Utility in 1813. Its waters help treat respiratory issues such as asthma and bronchitis, and aid in the recovery of rheumatological ailments by relieving muscle and joint pain.
The spa offers a wide range of treatments, such as specific programs for respiratory and rheumatological conditions, with techniques like aerosols, micronized showers, and steam baths, all personalized and supervised by a specialized medical team. The facilities include thermae, steam baths, therapeutic massages, and a relaxation area, perfect for pilgrims looking to relieve the accumulated tension after long walking days. The outdoor thermal pool, by the Umia River and with mineral-medicinal waters, is one of the most popular places, providing a perfect space for relaxation and well-being in a peaceful environment.
Acuña Spa
Dávila Spa
The Dávila Spa, located in the city center, is recognized for its unique mineral-medicinal waters, such as its composition of sodium chloride sulfurous, flowing at a temperature of 48ºC, classifying them as hyperthermal. These waters contain minerals like fluoride and manganese, and are primarily used to treat respiratory conditions such as pharyngitis, laryngitis, rhinitis, sinusitis, asthma, and rheumatic problems like tendinitis, fibromyalgia. The spa offers a variety of therapeutic treatments, including sprays, inhalations, nasal showers, thermal baths, and pressurized jets, all supervised by a specialized medical team. It also offers esthetic services, such as facial peeling, hydration, and therapeutic massages, both facial and body.
Its history dates back to 1780, when Don Joaquín Dávila y Mariño founded the first bathhouse. Over the years, the establishment evolved, and in 1923, the Hotel Balneario Dávila was inaugurated. The waters of the spa were used since Roman times, when legionaries employed them to cure the fatigue of travel and battle. Today, the spa remains a landmark where its therapeutic waters are used for physical and emotional well-being.
Center of Caldas de Reis
The public fountain of A Burga
In the center of Caldas de Reis, next to the Dávila Spa, lies the public fountain of A Burga, a thermal spring with free access that allows pilgrims to enjoy the healing waters at no cost. The Fountain of A Burga is part of the city’s rich thermal tradition, dating back to Roman times. It is believed that its waters were already used by the local inhabitants for their well-known healing properties.
Not only is there the fountain, but also the public laundromat, which offers pilgrims the opportunity to socialize while dipping their feet in the warm water, which helps improve blood circulation and relax muscles, providing a necessary break on their journey.
A relaxing environment: rivers and gardens of Caldas de Reis
Caldas de Reis is not only known for its thermal waters but also for its natural surroundings. The city is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, with the Umia and Bermaña rivers running through the municipality. These rivers not only create a picturesque landscape but also offer opportunities for outdoor activities, such as walks along their banks on the riverwalk. The sound of running water and the fresh air of the area contribute to the sense of calm and relaxation experienced in the city.
In addition to the rivers, Caldas de Reis has numerous green spaces and gardens where pilgrims can relax and enjoy nature. These include the Botanical Garden and the carballeira (oak grove), a perfect retreat to rest and disconnect from the fast pace of the Camino. The carefully maintained gardens invite leisurely walks along their paths to enjoy an environment full of peace and beauty. And don’t forget the fervenza or Segade waterfall, a waterfall that allows for bathing in its natural pools.
The Gardens of Caldas
Enjoy the well-being of Caldas de Reis
To make the most of Caldas de Reis’ thermal waters, pilgrims should keep a few practical tips in mind. It is recommended to book in advance at the spas, especially during the high season, to secure a spot. The spas of Caldas de Reis are usually open year-round, but it’s best to check the hours before visiting, as some offer additional services such as beauty treatments or therapeutic massages, allowing for a complete wellness experience. Of course, don’t forget to bring comfortable and appropriate clothing for bathing.
Caldas de Reis is an essential stop on the Portuguese Camino, not only for its thermal tradition but also for the rest and serenity it offers. Its medicinal mineral waters, combined with an amazing natural setting, make this destination a unique place to recharge before continuing the Camino. Both the spas and the public A Burga fountain offer pilgrims an opportunity to revitalize, helping to improve circulation and relieve fatigue, making Caldas de Reis a perfect oasis on the Jacobean routes and in the heart of Galicia.
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