Top 20 Natural Monuments around Caldes De Malavella

Caldes de Malavella is renowned for its thermal springs, which have been used since Roman times for their healing properties. You can also discover the remarkable Font de Sant Salvador, a natural spring known for its low-mineral water. Additionally, the area features ancient geological formations like the volcanic crater at Camp dels Ninots and extensive woodlands of oak, cork oak, and pine.

Yes, the thermal springs themselves are historical, with Roman thermal baths at Puig de Sant Grau dating back to the 1st century AD. The Camp dels Ninots paleontological site, located within an ancient volcanic crater, offers a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric life from 3.1 million years ago, with exceptionally preserved fossils. You can also visit Es Codolar Cove, nestled under the medieval Vila Vella wall, which has significant historical value.

The region offers diverse coastal natural monuments. You can visit Trons Cove, a rocky beach with coarse sand and clear water ideal for snorkeling. Es Codolar Cove is a smaller beach with a mix of sand and pebbles, set against a historical backdrop. For a more urban beach experience with services and views of the old town, Mar Menuda Beach is a great option.

Absolutely. Mar Menuda Beach is very family-friendly, offering a protected, shallow area called Sa Banyera de ses Dones, perfect for children. It also has various services and rental options. The Font de Sant Salvador is a pleasant spot in the forest, suitable for a family outing to collect natural spring water. Es Codolar Cove, while small, is also a good option for families looking for a natural setting under a medieval fortification.

Caldes de Malavella offers over 140 km of signposted nature trails suitable for hiking and mountain biking through forests of oak, cork oak, and pine. You can find various routes for hiking, cycling, and running. For example, there are moderate hiking trails like the 'Caulès Hermitage and Puig Ventós Loop' or cycling routes such as the 'Ruta Termal'.

Yes, Mar Menuda Beach is equipped with access ramps and amphibious chairs, making it accessible for people with reduced mobility. This allows everyone to enjoy the beautiful views of the old town and the sea.

You can experience the thermal waters directly at several natural fountains within the town, including La Mina (also known as Raig d'en Mel), Sant Narcís, and Bullidors. These public fountains allow visitors to sample the hot mineral-medicinal water. The waters are also used by local spas and bottling plants like Vichy Catalán.

Camp dels Ninots is a globally significant paleontological site located within an ancient volcanic crater. A phreatomagmatic eruption 3.1 million years ago created a lake whose unique conditions led to the exceptional preservation of fossils. Excavations have unearthed complete skeletons of macrovertebrates like tapirs and rhinoceroses, along with plant fossils, providing invaluable data on the Pliocene epoch's biological environment and climate in the Iberian Peninsula. There is an exhibition related to the site, often displaying excavated bones.

Yes, Puig de Cadiretes summit, standing at 518 meters high in the Cadiretes Massif - Ardenya, offers beautiful vantage points with extensive views of the coast. Additionally, Mar Menuda Beach provides a good view of the beautiful old town of Tossa de Mar and its 13th-century wall.

Visitors appreciate the clear, pristine waters at places like Trons Cove, which is ideal for snorkeling. The historical context of sites like Es Codolar Cove under the Vila Vella wall is also highly valued. Many enjoy the refreshing, low-mineral water from the Font de Sant Salvador, considering it a local symbol of health. The panoramic views from Puig de Cadiretes summit are also a favorite.

The natural monuments in Caldes de Malavella can be enjoyed year-round. The thermal springs are accessible in all seasons. For beaches like Trons Cove or Mar Menuda Beach, the warmer months from late spring to early autumn (May to October) are ideal for swimming and water activities. Hiking and cycling through the forests are pleasant in spring and autumn when temperatures are milder, though winter can also offer crisp, clear days for outdoor exploration.

While the thermal springs are more for therapeutic soaking, the clear waters of the coves and beaches offer excellent opportunities for swimming. Trons Cove is known for its clear water, ideal for snorkeling and swimming. Mar Menuda Beach also has excellent swimming conditions, including a protected, shallow area.