Las Caldas: the Spa of Asturias

Latitude: 43.3338890 Length: -5.9206438
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As its name suggests, the village of Las Caldas, just 9 kilometers from the Asturian capital , is a true spa town. Linked to its thermal baths since the 18th century , the surroundings retain that magical and nostalgic essence characteristic of thermal spas. Associated with health and bourgeois leisure during the 19th century, a source of romantic legends, a cradle of intellectuals, and above all, a privileged place of rest, spa resorts like Las Caldas continue to invite relaxation today.

Currently, after decades of neglect, Las Caldas is trying to revive its status as a holiday destination with a substantial renovation of its spa. The comprehensive project covered an area of ​​over 32.000 square meters. This space now houses a five-star hotel with 171 rooms, a spa, a convention and services building, and a leisure and thermal center. The project aims to create a leading spa resort in Spain , with the "Hall of Mirrors" being a particular highlight: a true gem from that era, whose original appearance will be preserved.

Gran Hotel Las Caldas Thermal Villa

The Balneario Real Spa features… Read more

The history of the Las Caldas Spa began in 1772 with a project that involved channeling the thermal waters and constructing a bathhouse and rooms for patients to use the waters. During the 19th century, it underwent transformations and reached its peak. However, from the first third of the 20th century onward, it suffered a gradual decline, remaining open only during the summer months until it finally closed its doors in 2004.

The current concept of health tourism , which views thermal spas not only as therapeutic centers but also as preventative and ideal leisure destinations, has allowed the thermal baths to reopen. The waters of Las Caldas will once again be used for health and beauty thanks to their oligometallic, calcium, magnesium, bicarbonate, and radioactive properties; particularly beneficial for rheumatism, respiratory ailments, and neurological conditions.

What to see in Las Caldas?

Aside from the baths, and while the spa's renovation is underway, the area surrounding the town has enough attractions to warrant a leisurely visit. The monumental Priorio Castle , situated on a hill overlooking the Nalón Valley, is a legendary crenellated fortress, flanked by two imposing towers, partially hidden by trees and surrounded by the Gafo River. It was built in the 19th century on the ruins of a historic building dating back to the time of Alfonso II. It was once owned by the Bishopric of Oviedo and is now privately owned.

The church of San Juan de Priorio is an excellent example of Asturian Romanesque architecture. Its portal, unique in Asturias, is particularly noteworthy, featuring a decorated tympanum sculpted with the vision of the Maiestas according to biblical texts. Christ, seated on the throne as sovereign of the world, bestows his blessing with his index, middle, and thumb fingers.

The Cueva de las Caldas is another important attraction. This protected cave, just 600 meters deep, serves as a habitat for a colony of bats listed as an endangered species. Thanks to excavations carried out since the early 1970s, this same cave is considered one of the most important Upper Paleolithic sites in the entire region, notable for its extensive stratigraphic sequence ranging from the Solutrean to the Magdalenian periods, particularly productive in terms of portable art.

Fuso de la Reina Route

Very close to Las Caldas, Fuso de la Reina has become a popular destination for walkers and cyclists who enjoy a pedestrian path that follows the old railway line . This greenway stretches for over 25 kilometers and runs between the municipalities of Oviedo and Tuñón. To complete it, you must cross eight tunnels and three bridges. The route connects with the Senda del Oso (Bear's Path) greenway near Fuso, following the original railway line and a series of rural paths. Picnic tables with benches have been installed at various points along the way, providing a place to rest or stop for a meal or snack.

In the town of Las Caldas itself, you can enjoy high-quality restaurants and bars. There are also modern leisure facilities: a golf course and a public swimming pool.

Canoe descent of the Nalón River from Las Caldas

Canoeing down the Nalón River through the Oviedo section runs between the towns of Las Caldas, where the thermal waters of the Balneario Real (Royal Spa) originate, and Trubia , home to the 19th-century Santa Bárbara arms factory and the starting point of the Bear's Trail (Senda del Oso). It's an ideal activity for lovers of water sports, adventure, and bird and wildlife watching. It's one of the most beautiful and enjoyable stretches of the river for canoeing in Asturias.

It's an area with a strong current, featuring around six mini-rapids, sections with waves, and calm stretches . The adventure tourism company Naturaller offers you the chance to enjoy this adrenaline-filled experience.