Nowadays the variety and types of spas are increasingly wide-ranging and sophisticated. Catalunya has a long tradition of enjoying natural springs, starting with the Greeks and Romans at Empúries. Balnearis—centres offering water-based therapies under medical control—are scattered throughout the region, and have long been popular with locals. Now, as the tourist industry seeks new ways to attract visitors, a whole range of different spas has been created for taking time out. So sit back, put your feet up and relax, as we lead you around some of the tranquil, spirit-cleansing Catalan spas.
1. Special waters—Hotel Balneari Vichy Catalan, Caldes de Malavella
Avinguda Doctor Furest 32, Caldes de Malavella; open all year round
Tel. 972 470 000; balneario@vichycatalan.es; www.balnearivichycatalan.com
Making the most of the mineral water that (in its carbonated, bottled form) is famous as a hangover-busting drink, the Vichy Catalan group has created a hotel-balneari in a 19th century Modernista building. The water comes out of the ground at 60ºC, and in the pool is between 36 and 38º, making it an appealing place in which to immerse a tired or stressed body. There’s an impressive range of services on offer—specific treatment programmes can last from two to seven days. Although these options aren’t cheap (in low season the seven-day programmes are over €1,000 per person), there’s a good selection of treatments and the price includes full-board accommodation. Of the treatments themselves, the stars of the show are—of course—those using the Vichy Catalan water, such as pressure and massage showers.
Sample prices: Thermal swimming-pool - €15 Vichy shower - €37
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