Termas de Arnedillo

## Overview Termas de Arnedillo is a free natural hot spring located in the town of Arnedillo, in the autonomous community of La Rioja, Spain. Nestled in the narrow valley of the Cidacos River, Arnedillo has been renowned for its thermal waters since at least Roman times, and the town's name itself is closely associated with its geothermal heritage. The hot springs emerge along the riverbank, where naturally heated water rises from deep underground through the limestone geology of the region. Water temperatures at the free outdoor pools have been reported to reach approximately 50°C (122°F) at the source, though the bathing areas where the thermal water mixes with river water tend to be considerably cooler and more comfortable for soaking. Arnedillo sits within the Cidacos Valley, a landscape characterized by dramatic red and ochre rock formations, and the area is also famous for its colony of griffon vultures, which nest in the surrounding cliffs. The combination of wild thermal bathing, striking geology, and abundant birdlife makes this a unique destination in northern Spain. In addition to the free riverside hot springs, the town is home to a historic spa hotel (Balneario de Arnedillo), which has operated in various forms for centuries, but the open-air thermal pools along the river are freely accessible to all visitors year-round. ## Directions 1. From Logroño, the capital of La Rioja, head south on the **LR-115** road toward Arnedillo. The drive is approximately 55 km (about 50 minutes). 2. Follow the LR-115 as it winds through the scenic Cidacos Valley, passing through the towns of Enciso and Peroblasco. 3. Upon arriving in Arnedillo, look for signs indicating the thermal area or "termas" near the river. 4. The free hot spring pools are located along the banks of the **Río Cidacos**, on the eastern edge of town. GPS coordinates: **42.2087, -2.2397**. 5. There is limited roadside parking near the thermal pools. During busy periods (weekends and holidays), you may need to park in the town center and walk a short distance to the river. ## What to Expect Visitors will find a series of informal, naturally formed pools along the banks of the Cidacos River where hot thermal water seeps up from the ground and mixes with the cooler river water. The pools vary in temperature — those closest to the source tend to be very hot, while pools further downstream offer a more moderate soak. The setting is beautifully rustic, surrounded by steep canyon walls and Mediterranean scrubland. The thermal area is outdoors and undeveloped, so there are no changing rooms, showers, or facilities at the free pools. It's advisable to bring a towel and wear footwear suitable for rocky, uneven terrain along the riverbank. The pools can become busy on weekends and during the summer months, so visiting on a weekday or early in the morning offers a more tranquil experience. The water has a slight sulfurous smell, characteristic of many natural hot springs, and has historically been valued for its purported therapeutic properties, particularly for skin conditions and musculoskeletal ailments. Water levels and pool conditions can change seasonally, especially after heavy rains when the river level rises and may submerge some of the bathing spots. While in the area, keep an eye on the cliffs above — the griffon vulture colony is one of the largest in Europe, and it's common to see these magnificent birds soaring overhead as you soak.