In the heart of Catalonia, halfway between Girona and the Costa Brava, lies Caldes de Malavella, a small town that seems suspended between past and present. Known for its thermal springs with curative properties, it has been attracting curists and travellers in search of well-being for centuries. But there's much more to Caldes than its healing waters. With its Roman remains, local legends and Mediterranean landscapes, Caldes is a destination as rich in history as it is in tradition. Whether you're wandering its narrow streets in search of its heritage or exploring the surrounding hills, Caldes de Malavella offers a unique experience, where relaxation and discovery come together in perfect harmony.
A town shaped by its thermal springs
The thermal waters of Caldes de Malavella are the very soul of the town. Exploited since Roman times, they continue to flow through public fountains and prestigious establishments. The Romans, seduced by the curative properties of these hot mineral waters, built thermal baths here, the ruins of which can still be seen today, including the Sant Grau thermal baths. These carefully preserved remains bear witness to the town's importance in ancient times as a centre for relaxation and health care.
In modern times, Caldes has strengthened its status thanks to emblematic establishments such as the Spa de Prats and the Vichy Catalan. The former, famous for its modernist architecture, has been a haven of peace and relaxation since the 19th century. The second, founded in 1881, is world-famous for its naturally sparkling mineral water, which gushes out at 60°C. This establishment offers a range of spa treatments while perpetuating the tradition of bottling its water, a symbol of the town.
Strolling through the streets, it's impossible not to notice the ubiquitous fountains, including the Fountain of La Mina, where you can still enjoy this very special water. The locals, proud of their spa heritage, have transformed these springs into a veritable art of living, attracting visitors from all over the world every year.
A history written in stone
As well as its springs, Caldes de Malavella is a town rich in history, where every street seems to tell the story of an episode from the past. The Roman remains, although emblematic, are only part of the history of this small town. In medieval times, the town grew up around Malavella Castle, a strategic hilltop fortress. Now in ruins, the site offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area and is a must-see for heritage enthusiasts.
The church of Sant Esteve, with its blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, is another of the town's jewels. Situated right in the heart of Caldes, it attracts visitors with its elegance and simplicity, while at the same time being a place of meditation for the locals. Not far away, the ruins of the medieval wall are a reminder of the times when the town had to defend itself against invaders.
Caldes de Malavella is also steeped in legend. The most famous is that of the Malavella, a witch who is said to have terrorised the region before being defeated by a brave knight. This legendary figure, although frightening, has become a symbol of the town, celebrated at various festivals and events. Exploring the surrounding hills, it's not hard to imagine the stories that inspired this legend, adding a touch of mystery to the natural beauty of the area.
A generous nature
Caldes de Malavella has much more to offer than its historical and thermal heritage. The town is surrounded by an enchanting Mediterranean landscape, ideal for a multitude of outdoor activities. The surrounding hills and forests are home to a variety of flora and fauna, ideal for hikers and cyclists.
One of the most popular routes is the path leading up to Puig de les Ànimes, which offers spectacular panoramic views over the plain of La Selva and the surrounding mountains. This route is both accessible and immersive, allowing you to discover typical Catalan landscapes while enjoying a moment of tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Golf lovers are not left out. Just a few kilometres from the town centre is Camiral Golf & Wellness, considered to be one of the best golf resorts in Europe. With its championship courses and top-of-the-range facilities, it attracts players from all over the world, adding to the prestigious image of Caldes de Malavella.
Finally, the city's proximity to the Costa Brava offers a unique opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. After a day spent walking or running through the historic streets, there's nothing like a trip to the crystal-clear waters of the region to round off your stay.
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