Discover a spa with very ancient secrets in the Murcian valley of Ricote

When you thought of a spa, you surely didn’t picture a complex of more than 200,000 m², nor a natural setting that looks like a movie scene. The Archena Spa is precisely that: an oasis of tranquility and charm right in the province of Murcia. But beware, not everything is as idyllic as it seems in the Instagram photo.

With the Segura River as a neighbor and a natural setting that almost seems magical, this spa not only welcomes tourists but also dates back to much older times, with a history that surprises. Have you ever wondered what it was like centuries ago? Well, that and more is coming now.

A spa with its own history and charm

Origins with water and culture

The Archena Spa, located next to the Segura River, dates back to Iberian and Roman times, when the healing properties of its mineral medicinal water were already known. This millenary tradition has grown into a modern thermal complex, but one that retains all the magic of the past. Official sources state that the waters reach over 52 °C and are ideal for treating rheumatic and respiratory conditions.

The first uses of the Archena Spa waters go back to the Iberian settlements of the 5th century BC, although it was the Romans who discovered and exploited the thermal properties through baths.

From the Middle Ages until the 19th century, the baths belonged to the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, until after the disentailment they passed into the hands of the Viscount of Rías.

Between 1858 and 1878, a major architectural transformation of the spa was undertaken, with the participation of notable architects and decorators such as Manuel Castaños, author of the unique star-shaped mocárabe dome.

After a period of decline in the 20th century, the spa regained activity from the 1980s, and today stands out for its sulfurous thermal waters that emerge at 51.7 °C with recognized mineromedicinal properties.

Architecture that enchants

The spa hotels, such as Hotel Termes with its neo-Nasrid dome and the replica of the Lions Fountain from the Alhambra, are not only places to sleep but authentic visual experiences. Also notable is Hotel Lleó, with views over lemon fields, and Hotel Levante, perfect for families seeking comfortable functionality. Altogether, the stay is a pleasure for the senses, not just for health.

What to do in Archena and surroundings besides the spa

Walks and nature

If you’ve already tired of soaking, you can take the opportunity to explore the Valle de Ricote Natural Park, an area that looks like it came out of a movie with orchards, streams, and paths to explore. It’s also worth visiting the Segura River, where the more adventurous practice kayaking or simply let themselves drift in some quiet spot to enjoy the sound of the water.

Heritage and local culture

Archena has a charming historic center, where the Spa Chapel and streets retain the essence of a Murcian village. About 15 minutes away, the city of Murcia offers cultural and gastronomic options you can't miss.

From the Wellness Forum YouTube channel, they offer us a guided tour of the spa, which only makes us want to go even more.

Where to eat and where to sleep

Murcian gastronomy to lick your fingers

You can’t leave without trying the local gastronomy, which holds its own with dishes like caldero del Mar Menor, marinera, or Murcian omelet. To eat well, you can check the best restaurants in Archena, according to TripAdvisor. Don’t be alarmed if you see tourist menus with paella on the menu, better avoid them.

Accommodations for every taste

If the spa is the star, its hotels are the cherry on top: Hotel Termes (4 stars), Hotel Levante (4 stars with direct access to the thermal gallery), and Hotel Lleó (3 stars with access to physiotherapy and treatments). But you can choose by category and prices on this page. All offer a comfort that makes the excuse to return perfectly clear: truly relaxing.

The Archena Spa is not just a place to heal the body, but a corner where time seems to fold. With a combination of nature, history, and gastronomy close at hand, it is a getaway that the people of Tarragona should have noted down. It’s not just any spa; it’s a journey through time and well-being.

Check prices and make your reservation at the spa on their website.