Ourense, Galicia, Spain. Complete guide to visiting Ourense, Spain
Why Visit Ourense in Galicia
Ourense is a small city in inland Galicia in northwest Spain, and it’s one of those places that is actually a hidden gem, and hardly any tourists visit. It’s best known for its natural thermal springs which line the Mino River. The city is very walkable and very easy to enjoy over a few days, especially if you like exploring on the slower side and want to take advantage of the incredible thermal baths.
A Quick Bit of History
The Romans settled in Ourense because of the hot springs, and that really explains the city in a nutshell. They built baths here, and people have been using the hot water ever since. Over time, medieval churches, bridges, and stone streets grew around those Roman foundations. It is now quite a modern city, but the old town is really beautiful and there a lots of plazas to sit and enjoy a wine or coffee.
The Thermal Tourist Train
If you want a gentle overview of the city, the tourist train is a handy option. It loops through the historic centre and then takes you along the Mino River and stops at all the thermal baths. It is a hop on hop off train and is really cheap. Be warned though, it only runs on holidays and weekends. You buy tickets on the train or they are sold near Plaza Mayor from the tourist office.
Thermal Springs and Baths
This is what most people come to Ourense for, and it really does live up to the reputation. There are several natural thermal baths along the river, many of them outdoors and either free or very inexpensive. The water is naturally heated and mineral rich, with temperatures generally between about 38 and 60 degrees Celsius, depending on the spring.
Some of the most popular public baths include As Burgas in the city centre, A Chavasqueira, Muíño da Veiga, and Termas de Outariz (pictured above). Termas de Outariz is the largest and most organised, with multiple pools at different temperatures and a small entry fee. Some baths use timed entry, so it’s worth checking times in advance, especially in busier months. We had an absolutely wonderful time at the Termas d Outariz. We went in every thermal bath. Some are deep, some shallow, some indoors and some under the shade of big trees. There is a cafe there with wonderful views over the baths and the river. Certainly a highlight for us in Ourense
There’s also a well marked Thermal Tourist Trail that links many of the baths with walking paths along the river, making it easy to visit more than one over a couple of days.
The Miño River and the Bridges
The Miño River runs right through Ourense and it is just stunning. There are flat walking paths along the river, and they’re great for an easy stroll and are quite shady under the trees.. Several bridges cross the river, including the Roman Bridge, which is still used today and very much part of daily life. You’ll also see newer bridges like the Millennium Bridge, which has a raised curved walkway which is absolutely insane to look at. I don’t think I could walk up and down those stairs! (see picture 3 above). Walking across the bridges is one of the nicest ways to get your bearings in the city, but also the place for spectacular views. Our favourite was to walk across the Roman Bridge, from there go down a staircase where you can see the bridge from underneath and enjoy the river views from the green parkland that runs along the river.
We had the best time in Ourense. We really didn’t have any plans but to enjoy the thermal baths. We actually found there was a whole lot more to enjoy as well. It is a totally underrated city and is quiet and definitely not full of tourists. Many of the hotels have thermal spas as well, so when we weren’t out enjoying the city and river, we were having a relaxing time at our hotel spa. We stayed at the IMI Hotel and Spa. This is it here (no affiliate links - its just a great hotel) IMI HOTEL & SPA – IMI HOTEL & SPA