Lorraine Williamson
When the mercury soars, Spain’s beaches are the obvious draw. But for those seeking a quieter or more unusual dip, there’s a world of freshwater and designer places to swim in Spain away from the coast.
From mountain-fed pools to artist-designed complexes, these 12 inland locations prove that you don’t need sand to enjoy places to swim during the summer in Spain.
Mountain air and freshwater near Madrid
Start in the heart of the Sierra de Guadarrama. Just outside Madrid, Cercedilla’s municipal pool in Las Berceas offers a serene woodland setting and water so clear it could be mistaken for a mountain stream. Families spread out on grassy banks, while sunseekers claim wooden decks dotted among the pines.
Wild swims in Andalucia
Down south in Andalucia, El Chorro, nestled below the dramatic cliffs of the Caminito del Rey, offers a wild-swim experience surrounded by jaw-dropping gorges. Over in Jaén, Charco del Aceite in Cazorla Natural Park is a lesser-known river pool with surprisingly warm waters and picnic-perfect banks.
Art meets water in the Canary Islands
Tenerife adds an artistic touch to the mix. At Puerto de la Cruz, the saltwater lagoons of Costa Martiánez are as much a sculpture park as a pool complex, with lava rock, fountains, and bold modernist design courtesy of local artist César Manrique.
Urban oasis in Valencia
Valencia, meanwhile, boasts one of the country’s most dynamic municipal pools. Benicalap’s Olympic-sized lanes and splash zones sit inside a tree-lined park, offering shade, sports, and a welcome break from the city heat.
Fairy-tale swimming in Castilla-La Mancha
In Castilla-La Mancha, La Laguna Colgada in the Lagunas de Ruidera is more than just a place to swim. With forested shores, turquoise waters, and an island castle reached by footbridge, it feels like a fairytale.
Family-friendly dips in Extremadura
Further west, Extremadura’s Casas del Monte hosts a family-friendly natural pool, its calm waters fed by the Sierra de Gredos.
Resort vibes in Jerez
Jerez de la Frontera might not scream swimming getaway, but Arena Village surprises with its resort-like feel and local pricing. It’s all fountains, palms, and chilled vibes without the coastal crowds.
Riverbank retreat in Galicia
Up in Galicia, Ourense locals escape the summer heat in the riverside pools of Oira, set among the trees along the Miño River. Admission is free, and the atmosphere is pure community.
Hidden rock pools in Navarra
Navarra hides its swim treasure near San Martín de Unx: a collection of rock pools so clear and tucked away they resemble something out of a fantasy novel. Expect ferns, still water, and utter peace.
Limestone cascades in Cuenca
Cuenca’s Las Chorreras del Cabriel turns swimming into an adventure, with cascades, water slides carved into limestone, and natural rock basins perfect for floating or sunbathing.
Pink granite beauty on the Costa Brava
On the Costa Brava, you’ll find Es Cau, a pink granite pool carved into the rock between Platja Fonda and Fornells. While it technically holds seawater, it feels like a private inland oasis. You’ll need to walk in on the Camí de Ronda, but the reward is worth it.
Málaga’s hidden swim havens
Málaga province is a treasure trove of wild-swim spots hidden away in river gorges and forest valleys:
- Charco de la Olla (Río Turón, Ardales): A leafy escape with clear water and mill ruins.
- Charca de la Extranjera (Río Padrón, Estepona): A glimmering green pool just a short walk from the road.
- Charco Frío (Benaoján): Icy waters in a protected natural site near Cueva del Gato.
- El Chorro (Río Guadalhorce, Álora): A scenic, quiet swimming hole near the famous Caminito del Rey.
Swim safety tips
Whether you’re diving into a river pool or lounging by a designer complex, safety should always come first. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
- Check water depth before jumping: Rock pools and natural lagoons can be deceptively shallow in places.
- Wear water shoes: Many natural spots have slippery stones or hidden debris underfoot.
- Watch the weather: Heavy rain upstream can cause sudden water surges or make trails hazardous.
- Stay hydrated and shaded: Inland spots may not offer the breeze of the coast — bring water, hats, and sunscreen.
- Know your limits: Some areas, especially in rivers and gorges, have strong currents. If in doubt, stay in shallow areas.
- Respect the environment: Take rubbish with you, avoid disturbing wildlife, and follow any local signage or restrictions.
As summers grow hotter and travel habits shift away from the predictable, Spain’s inland swim spots offer the perfect alternative to crowded beaches. With their mix of nature, design, and tranquillity, they invite you to explore deeper and discover a different side of the country.
Spain´s top 10 swimming lakes
Sources: Diario del Viajero, Málaga Hoy