The north of Spain is usually associated with wild beaches, cliffs, and green mountains, but it hides other treasures. Across its landscapes lie natural pools where a swim surrounded by nature is a much calmer experience than any day on the coast.
Some have been known to locals for generations, while others remain small secrets shared among hikers and trekking enthusiasts.
The best thing about these natural pools is that each one has its own personality. Some appear at the base of impressive waterfalls, others form pools of crystal-clear water carved over centuries by the river’s force, and there are those located in protected settings where the silence is only interrupted by the sound of water.
Many require a short hike to reach them, which makes the reward feel even greater when it’s time to dive in.
We travel across the north of our country in search of the finest natural pools to pair with hiking routes, visits to charming towns, or gastronomic outings, making them excellent plans for a summer that feels different.
Melón Pools, Galicia
In the interior of the Ourense province, far from the bustle of the Galician coast, the Cerves River—which rises in the Sierra de Faro de Avión, about a thousand meters above sea level—has carved for thousands of years a succession of natural pools known as the Melón Pools.
It is one of those places where the water takes on such a transparent tone that we can clearly see the granite bottom, while small cascades connect pools to pool, creating an almost tropical setting.
The journey to discover them is part of the experience. A simple trail accompanies the river among trees, bridges, and large rocks, allowing us to stop at different swimming zones. Although some pools are shallow and perfect for relaxing, others reach sufficient depth for a splash in the heart of nature.
It’s a good idea to extend the visit to reach the Santa María de Melón monastery, founded by the Cistercian Order in the twelfth century.
