Many people associate summer holidays with the beach. Lying in the sun on the sand, enjoying a refreshing swim, a visit to the beach bar... that's all well and good, but there are countless radiant, beautiful spots that fit in perfectly with the idea of taking a refreshing dip. If you’re looking for an alternative to the coast, take note of these enclaves where you can enjoy refreshing destinations, great gastronomy and the mix of relaxation and fun that your body and mind need during summer.
LA PLAYA DE ARCOS', WATER ACTIVITIES AND FRESHNESS IN A SECRET SETTING
Only a few privileged adventurers know of the existence of 'La Playita de Arcos'. In 2023, this spot, the result of the dammed water of the lake, together with the Guadalete river, has extended its area. As well as bathing, there’s a Nautical Club where you’ll find pedal boats, skate boats, kayaks, water skis and other types of boats.
The Majaceite River is also famous for its spectacular pools. Its fresh and transparent waters, surrounded by trees, will make you not want to dry yourself in a towel. And if all these options don't convince you, the Parador de Arcos de la Frontera is only 40 minutes away from the beaches of Cádiz, San Fernando, Puerto de Santa María, Sanlúcar de Barrameda and Rota. Other options are the beaches of Conil, El Palmar, Caños de Meca and Barbate.
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PLASENCIA: IDYLLIC SPOTS FOR A SWIM SURROUNDED BY NATURE
Plasencia is an area with a large number of natural pools. The Sierra de Gata is a haven of peace and tranquillity; it’s a chance to close your eyes and let yourself get carried away by the sound of the water eroding the torrents of the steep valleys, while you enjoy the scent of heather and rockrose. Acebo and Robledillos de Gata are the perfect choices for exploring this aquatic paradise.
If you’re in Extremadura, you can’t miss the Jerte Valley. It’s a fantastic place not only to immerse yourself in the waters but also to escape the summer heat. This is possible thanks to the green areas that abound in this ecosystem and the countless gorges found in the area (there are more than 15 in the Jerte alone). Perhaps the most popular site in the valley is the 'Garganta de los Infiernos', adorned with waterfalls and carved pools.
Other swimming spots to show off on social media include, Las Hurdes, Casas del Monte in the Ambroz Valley, Jarandilla de la Vera and the Guachos and San Gregorio gorges in Aldeanueva de la Vera. If you’d like to receive more information about these and other options, you can call the Parador at 927425870 or write to [email protected].
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IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE CRYSTAL-CLEAR WATERS THAT SURROUND THE PARADOR DE OLITE
Near the Parador de Olite is the Alloz reservoir in Lerate. The temperature of its waters ranges from 16ºC - 25ºC. Dressed in rich vegetation, especially scrubland and pine trees, it’s a great place to feel the cool breeze of the wind on your skin. As a second option, in the same dam, you can try the Ugar area which has a similar atmosphere. Both have parking, furniture and umbrellas so that you can sunbathe as if you were on the beach.
La Morea Reservoir has been declared a Wetlands of Navarre. Its value lies in the cleanliness and purity of its waters, aspects that have been taken care of since 1994. It’s also worth mentioning that the temperature in the bathing area doesn’t usually exceed 24ºC. Other options are the municipal swimming pools of Olite, Tafalla (5 km) or Marcilla (22 km). For more demanding tastes we suggest visiting the leisure centre in Cascante which offers a variety of activities.
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GET TO KNOW THE BATHING AREAS OF THE SERRANÍA DE GREDOS
The Serranía de Gredos mountain range has some great spots for taking a dip. In the Pozas de Valdeascas, which is very child-friendly, you can go hiking before getting into the water and discover the natural pools formed by potholes and the gorge formed by granite rocks. You can also stop off at the Puente del Duque bridge to cool off in the shelter of a splendid pine forest.
If you come to the Parador de Gredos, don't miss the chance to visit Las Chorreras del Tormes, but make sure you wear comfortable shoes. The bathing area invites you to relax while you listen to the small waterfalls all around you. Moreover, if you stay with us, you can use the youth hostel next to it completely free of charge, except on Thursdays and Fridays, and always with a reservation.
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WILDLIFE, HIKING AND NATURAL ENVIRONMENTS FOR FAMILY FUN
The Tabla de la Yedra is located in the town of Piedrabuena, a paradise full of fauna like otters and foxes, as well as lush vegetation, including water lilies, poplars and ash trees. The serenity of its atmosphere, the tranquillity of the waters and the beauty of the small animals to be found in the area are compelling reasons for a family trip to this oasis of peace in Castile-La Mancha. Come to the Parador de Almagro and discover it all.
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Next to the Parador de Manzanares are the Lagunas de Ruidera. This is another destination where you can spend the day, starting with a hiking route through the Cueva de Montesinos and ending the day with a cool swim. This is a setting full of varied fauna, although birds such as the marsh harrier and the tufted duck stand out in particular. You’ll feel the breath of nature as you bathe surrounded by natural dams and impressive waterfalls.
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COME TO THE PARADOR DE SIGÜENZA AND DISCOVER THE INCREDIBLE UPPER TAGUS
In the upper Tagus, we can find wonderful bathing areas like the San Pedro Bridge, the Poveda de la Sierra Pools or the natural pool of Ablanque. These landscapes are characterised by river gorges and canyons. It’s also one of the areas with the greatest variety of fauna, such as reptiles, micro-mammals and birds of prey. Moreover, in this region in particular, you can go scuba diving, canoeing and quad biking.
Another option would be to visit the Atance and Entrepeñas reservoirs or the Pelegrina park, a natural extension that follows the path of the Dulce river and where you can find various places to escape the heat, just 15 kilometres from the Parador de Sigüenza.
