Imagine two days away from stress, submerged in thermal waters that revitalise the body and soul, surrounded by lush green landscapes and historic cities. Galicia is the ideal place to unwind from the daily grind and reconnect with yourself. Time appears to stand still as you appreciate the tranquillity of a spa, the allure of its rich culture, and the kindness of its people. In these thermal getaways in Galicia, we invite you to experience something unique: relax in mineral-medicinal waters renowned for their therapeutic benefits, stroll through the streets of Santiago, Ourense, Lugo, or Vigo, and let yourself be carried away by the slow pace of a land that pays attention to every detail. Treat yourself to this trip of well-being and authenticity in the heart of Galicia, where rest and culture combine to provide you with the necessary respite.
We’ve compiled a list of four destinations that will transform your Galician thermal break into a wellness and discovery experience.
Day 1: Wellness at Mondariz Spa
Begin your thermal holiday at the historic Mondariz Spa, which was established in 1873 and is well-known for the restorative powers of its mineral-medicinal waters. Relax at the Palacio del Agua, a sophisticated spa with thermal circuits, active pools, and outdoor relaxation areas.
In addition to the therapies, the spa provides an excellent natural setting for relaxation: meander along the banks of the Tea River and take in the tranquilly of the sceneries. End the day with dinner at its restaurant, which serves Galician cuisine with a refined and contemporary twist.
Day 2: Culture and Urban Charm in Vigo
Spend the second day discovering Vigo, a seaside city that combines tradition and modernity. Begin the tour in Casco Vello, a historic neighbourhood with cobblestone alleys, little squares, and the A Pedra market, where you can sample the estuary’s famous oysters.
Climb up to Monte de O Castro, a natural overlook with amazing views of the city and the Vigo estuary. From here, you’ll understand why Vigo is known as the olive city, a place where the energy of its port coexists with the serenity of the sea. If you’d want to learn more, join our Castro tour.
Afternoon stroll around the harbour area and Montero Ríos, where terraces and cafés offer a calm pace. If you want something more active, you might take a guided tour that focusses on the city’s street art and maritime history.
Termas de Outariz + Ourense
Day One: Wellness at Outariz Hot Springs
Immerse yourself in the serenity of the Outariz Hot Springs, a natural sanctuary with thermal pools of varying temperatures surrounded by nature. These thermal baths, inspired by Japanese tradition, are great for relaxing while reaping the advantages of their mineral-medicinal waters, which are beneficial for stress relief and body revitalisation.
After the thermal experience, go around the Miño River to admire its calm landscape. Finish the day with a quiet meal at one of the surrounding restaurants, where local cuisine shows through with delicacies like octopus “á feira” and the famous Cea bread.
Day 2: Culture and Charm of Ourense
Spend the second day seeing the city of Ourense, beginning with a tour around its historic centre. Explore the Cathedral of San Martiño, a Romanesque masterpiece, before heading to Praza Maior, the city’s bustling centre.
Don’t miss the Roman bridge, a symbol of Ourense’s past that connects modernism to its ancient origins. If the weather allows, you can have a final swim in the public baths of A Chavasqueira or a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Miño.
Termas romanas + Lugo
Day 1: Wellness in the Roman Baths of Lugo
The Roman Baths of Lugo, located by the Miño River, are a living relic of the past. These baths, designated as a Cultural Heritage Site, date back to the first century AD and preserve the allure of Roman architecture. They are not open for bathing, but you may enjoy thermal experiences at the neighbouring Hotel Balneario de Lugo, which retains elements of the ancient Roman public baths while still offering modern thermal treatment facilities, providing visitors with a one-of-a-kind experience for the perfect thermal retreat.
Enjoy a hot bath that will revitalise your body and mind while connecting with the history that surrounds this location. After, unwind with a calm walk along the Miño River.
Day 2: Discovering Lugo’s Roman History
Spend the second day exploring Lugo, the only city in the world enclosed by an entirely preserved Roman wall and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin the tour by walking along its wall, from where you will enjoy excellent views of the city and its surrounds.
Visit the Cathedral of Santa María, a magnificent specimen of Romanesque art, and meander through the alleys of the old centre. Enjoy local cuisine at one of the bars offering the famed Lucense tapas.
A walk along the top of the wall, as well as the Provincial Museum of Lugo, are must-sees for learning about the city’s rich cultural and Roman legacy. If the weather permits, finish the day with a leisurely stroll through Praza Maior, Lugo’s bustling heart.
Balneario de Compostela + Santiago
Day 1: Relax in the Compostela Spa
The Balneario de Compostela, located in Brión and only a few minutes from Santiago, is great for unwinding from tension. Its mineral-medicinal waters, which are recommended for reducing muscle and joint strain, are mixed with modern amenities such as thermal pools, jacuzzis, and personalised treatments.
After a soothing treatment, take a walk through the spa’s gardens or along nearby peaceful paths to enjoy the natural surroundings.
Day 2: Explore Santiago de Compostela
Spend the second day discovering Santiago de Compostela, Galicia’s spiritual and cultural centre. Stroll around the historic centre, which has been designated a World Heritage Site, and pay a visit to the grand Santiago Cathedral, the Camino de Santiago’s final destination and a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture.
Explore the historic cobblestone streets and squares, such as Praza do Obradoiro or Praza das Praterías, and indulge in local tapas at traditional bars.
These thermal getaways not only encourage you to relax, but also to learn about the history and charm of each location on a guided tour. Personalised excursions will allow you to uncover each destination’s best-kept secrets, from interesting anecdotes to hidden corners with soul. You will gain authentic and enriching experiences in each place, transforming you into a true explorer. Allow Galicia to amaze you with its distinct stories and landscapes. Your journey awaits!
