Les Bains de Saint Thomas

## Overview Les Bains de Saint Thomas is a renowned natural hot spring complex nestled in the heart of the French Pyrenees, near the village of Fontpédrouse in the Pyrénées-Orientales department of southern France. Located at an elevation in the scenic Têt river valley, these sulfurous thermal waters have been cherished for centuries and are among the most celebrated hot springs in the Catalan Pyrenees. The springs at Saint Thomas have a long history of use dating back to at least the Roman era, when thermal bathing was a cornerstone of daily life in the region. The waters, which emerge naturally from deep within the earth at temperatures reported to reach around 58°C (136°F) at the source, are rich in sulfur and trace minerals. Over the centuries, the site has been associated with therapeutic and relaxation purposes, drawing visitors who seek the reputed health benefits of its warm, mineral-laden waters. Today, Les Bains de Saint Thomas operates as an open-air thermal bathing facility, with a series of carved stone pools set dramatically against the mountainous backdrop of the Pyrenees. The pools are fed directly by the natural hot spring water, and the site is a popular destination for both locals and tourists year-round. The striking turquoise-blue color of the water, contrasted with the surrounding granite and lush mountain scenery, makes it one of the most photogenic hot spring sites in France. The GPS coordinates for Les Bains de Saint Thomas are approximately 42.5001, 2.1674, placing it in the commune of Fontpédrouse in the Conflent region of Catalonia Nord (Northern Catalonia). ## Directions 1. From Perpignan, head west on the N116 toward Andorra, following the Têt river valley into the mountains. 2. Continue on the N116 through Prades and Villefranche-de-Conflent, climbing steadily into the Pyrenees. 3. After passing through the town of Olette, continue on the N116 toward Fontpédrouse. 4. Look for signs indicating "Les Bains de Saint Thomas" or "Bains de St Thomas" — the turnoff leads south from the main road toward the thermal baths. 5. Follow the narrow mountain road down to the facility. Parking is available on site, though it can fill up during peak season and weekends. *Note: The road into the valley can be winding and narrow in places. In winter, check road conditions as snow and ice are possible at this elevation.* ## What to Expect Visitors to Les Bains de Saint Thomas will find a series of outdoor thermal pools carved from local stone, set into the steep mountainside with panoramic views of the surrounding Pyrenean peaks. The water in the pools is maintained at varying temperatures — typically between 37°C and 40°C (98–104°F) — making for a comfortable and relaxing soak in any season. The sulfurous mineral water has a distinctive warm, slightly earthy scent characteristic of volcanic hot springs. The vivid blue-green hue of the pools is one of the site's most striking features and is a result of the mineral content interacting with sunlight. The facility is managed and charges an entry fee. Amenities typically include changing rooms, lockers, and a small café or refreshment area. Bathing suits are required. The site can be busy during summer months and on weekends, so arriving early or visiting on weekdays is recommended for a more tranquil experience. In winter, bathing in the steaming outdoor pools surrounded by snow-dusted mountains is a particularly magical experience and a major draw for visitors to the region. The nearby Petit Train Jaune (Yellow Train), a historic narrow-gauge railway, runs through the valley and offers a scenic alternative way to reach the area. The surrounding Conflent region is rich in Catalan heritage, Romanesque architecture, and hiking opportunities, making Les Bains de Saint Thomas an excellent stop as part of a broader exploration of the French Pyrenees.