In the town of San Pedro del Pinatar, located on Spain’s Mediterranean coast, you will discover Las Charcas Mud Baths. Part of Mar Menor, a large 170 square kilometer saltwater lagoon called the “Sea of Health”, this area is renowned for its shallow depths, high salinity, and healing mud.
Baños de lodo — Hot Springs
Las Charcas, the most popular of the earth baths located around Mar Menor, provides visitors with unparalleled access to the therapeutic mud that makes up the ground of the lagoon. The baths are situated inside the Parque Natural de Salinas Arenales, a protected wetland known for its rich biodiversity and large bird population.
The mud baths are separated from the rest of the Mar Menor by a small, paved strip of land and can be accessed from special wooden stations positioned along the water. From these platforms, bathers enter the pit and coat themselves in the area’s famous natural resource.
After covering themselves, visitors emerge from the lagoon to allow the mud to dry to enjoy the natural health benefits. While local legend dictates that the best way to maximize these benefits is to walk three kilometers to the Molino de la Calcetera Lighthouse, many choose to lounge by the lagoon and enjoy the views before washing off.
Regardless, a visit to Las Charcas Mud Baths is sure to result in a relaxing, peaceful experience. With that being said, the area can be crowded, and it is not uncommon to see groups of visitors walking around while coated in dark mud.
Access to Las Charcas is free, and there is parking available nearby. However, the parking lot often fills early during the summer months, so many visitors choose to rent bicycles to access the area.
Details
Address: Calle Campoamor, 10, 30740 San Pedro del Pinatar, Murcia, Spain
Season: Year-round
Balneario de Zújar (Hot Springs) – Granada, Spain