Caldas de Malavella is a historic spa town located in the Selva region, in the province of Girona, Catalonia. Famous for its hot mineral water springs (at about 60°C), used since Roman times for their curative properties, the town combines a rich historical heritage with a modern wellness offer. It is an excellent destination for those seeking luxury hotels, spa hotel stays, and a strategic position to explore the nearby Costa Brava and its beauties.

Real Experience: History, Water, and Relaxation

Our local experts recommend starting the visit at the Roman Baths (Banys Romans), a well-preserved archaeological site that testifies to the city's ancient hydrotherapy tradition. For a sensory experience, we suggest tasting the hot water that flows directly from one of the public fountains, such as the Font de la Vaca or the Font de Sant Narcís. The area is also renowned for its high-quality golf courses, which offer a sporting experience immersed in lush nature. We recommend combining an afternoon of thermal relaxation with a dinner at a restaurant that values the flavors of the land.

Gastronomy and Typical Local Products

Caldas de Malavella's cuisine is part of the rich gastronomic tradition of the province of Girona. Being an inland area but close to the coast, it offers an interesting combination of mountain and sea dishes ('mar i muntanya'). Must-try pork-based products include the Botifarra Dolça (sweet sausage, typical of Girona). Our travel designers recommend trying toasted bread with tomato and ham (Pa amb Tomàquet) and accompanying meals with a wine from the nearby Empordà DOP designation.

Excursions and Surroundings: Costa Brava and Medieval Girona

Caldas de Malavella is a strategic starting point. In just 20-30 minutes by car, you can reach the splendid beaches and coves of the Costa Brava, such as Tossa de Mar or Sant Feliu de Guíxols. The medieval city of Girona, with its imposing historic center and Jewish quarter (Call), is also a short distance away. For nature lovers, excursions to the volcanic area of Garrotxa are a unique experience.

Institutional Links

• Official Website of the Municipality of Caldes de Malavella
• Costa Brava Pirineu de Girona Tourism

Top 3 Luxury and Spa Hotels Recommended by our travel designers

• Hotel Balneari Vichy Catalan – A historic institution, this spa offers elegant accommodation and thermal treatments with the world-famous water.
• Hotel Balneari Prats – Another traditional spa, known for its Modernist architecture and thermal pools.
• PGA Catalunya Golf and Wellness (nearby) – A luxury golf and wellness resort, ideal for demanding sports enthusiasts, a short distance from the center.

Top 3 Recommended Restaurants

• Restaurant Balneari Vichy Catalan – Refined cuisine using local products in a historic and elegant setting.
• Restaurant Can Gilda – Offers traditional Catalan dishes in a welcoming and familiar atmosphere.
• El Celler de Can Roca (* Three Michelin Stars, in Girona) – Although not in Caldes, it is a short distance away and is an absolutely unmissable world-class gastronomic experience.