In the natural area of the Sierra de Utrera, we can find natural thermal baths known as Baños de la Hedionda, which are known for the healing properties of their waters.
What are the Hedionda natural thermal baths like?
They are sulfurous ferruginous baths located in a wonderful location.
The spa area has a square shape of approximately 6 meters long, with a spherical vaulted room and two galleries also covered by vaults, all under the water. Subsequent remodeling led to the expansion of the walls and channels that were brought to light in the early 90s. In addition, since 2016, these baths have natural pools.
The materials used in the construction of the Baños de la Hedionda are: lime concrete, stones, and double or triple rows of solid bricks.
Where are the Hedionda natural thermal baths?
The Baños de la Hedionda are located in the town of Casares in the Sierra de Utrera, declared a Site of Cultural Interest (BIC). They are located on the right bank of the Albarrán stream, very close to the limit with the municipality of Manilva.
History
The most popular legend tells that in the 1st century BC, during the second civil war between Caesar and Pompey, Julius Caesar’s Roman troops were camped near the spring waiting for the confrontation. The waters of this spring were turquoise in color and emitted an unpleasant odor.
Many of Caesar’s soldiers suffered from severe scabies infections, which prevented them from fighting optimally, but after bathing in these waters, their itching was reduced, thus confirming the healing power of the waters of the Manilva River. In addition, it is also said that Julius himself was cured of a herpetic infection and ordered the construction of the baths that are still preserved today.
Another legend says that the devil exhaled his last breath here when he was expelled by Santiago.
The origin of these sources seems to be in the Roman era. Although during the Muslim era, its structure and channeling system were modified, acquiring the appearance we see today.
Regardless of the legends, the oldest geographic treatises of the municipality of Casares refer to the healing properties of the Hedionda fountain, and people still visit them to benefit from their healing properties.
Characteristics
The water in these baths of the Hedionda maintains a constant temperature of 18-21 degrees, both in winter and summer. Although if you plan to take care of your skin with the clay from its spring and want to dry the mud in the sun, it is recommended to visit it in summer.
The locals offer recommendations to make the most of the healing properties of the waters. First, take a bath inside the thermal bath or in the riverbed itself. Then, apply the greenish clay all over the body, including the hair. Next, let the layer of mud dry in the sun, and finally, once the mud is dry, bathe in the river itself.
Entrace to the natural thermal baths premises
Due to the high influx of people who come to bathe in these healing waters, the Casares Town Council has established a series of measures, among which the limitation of the capacity in the premises stands out, to a maximum of 24 people. Therefore, to access during the established peak hours, from 12:00 to 19:00 from July to September, reservations will be mandatory.
Reservations are completely free:
Reservations are now open to enjoy the Hedionda Baths from Friday, June 23rd to Sunday, September 10th, 2023. You can make your reservation on the Eventbrite website. Please use the following links:
JUNE / JULY / AUGUST / SEPTEMBER
For more information, please contact the Tourism Office at the Blas Infante Birthplace in the Casares Town Hall (phone number: 952 895 521).
How to get to the Hedionda Baths in Casares?
To get to the Hedionda Baths in Casares, you can follow the following directions:
- From the center of Casares, head southwest on the A-377 road.
- Continue on the A-377 for approximately 5 kilometers until you reach a right turn marked as “Baños de la Hedionda” or “Manantial de la Hedionda”.
- Take the turn and continue on the dirt road that will lead you to the baths.
- Follow the signs and the path until you reach the parking area near the baths.
- From there, you can walk a few minutes to reach the Hedionda Baths.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the hike can be a bit steep in some parts. Also, make sure to respect the rules and take care of the natural environment during your visit.
You can follow the directions on Google Maps here.
