Exploring Ourense: Spain's Thermal Province

Quick Summary

Ourense is a distinctive province within the autonomous community of Galicia, Spain. Unlike its coastal neighbors, it is the only Galician province without access to the sea. Despite this, it offers a wealth of inland attractions that make it a unique destination for travelers seeking history and nature.

The province is particularly renowned for its exceptional thermal resources. It boasts eight spas and more than half a dozen official open-air thermal springs. Additionally, there are unregulated hot springs available for free public use, specifically those located at the Río Caldo and in Bande. Beyond its thermal waters, Ourense holds cultural significance as the location of O Carballiño, which is celebrated as the world capital of octopus.

Geographically and architecturally, the region is marked by unique features. The capital city's Main Square is notably inclined. The deeper, rural areas of the province contain one of the highest concentrations of monumental and historical heritage in Spain. This includes impressive Roman engineering works and majestic Romanesque cenobios (monasteries). The landscape is dominated by extensive forests of carballos (oak trees), adding to the province's scenic appeal.

A Land Without a Sea 🌊

Ourense holds a unique geographical distinction within Galicia. It is the only province in the region that does not border the Atlantic Ocean. This lack of a coastline has shaped a distinct inland identity focused on river valleys and mountainous terrain.

Despite being landlocked, the province is not without its own aquatic allure. The region is defined by its relationship with the Río Caldo and other waterways that provide the thermal waters for which the area is famous. The absence of the sea has allowed the development of a robust termalismo culture, drawing visitors to its natural hot springs rather than coastal beaches.

The World Capital of Octopus 🐙

One of the most celebrated culinary destinations in the province is O Carballiño. Located nearly 100 kilometers inland, this town has earned the title of the world capital of octopus. It serves as a central hub for the region's gastronomy.

The town's reputation is built on the traditional preparation of pulpo (octopus), a dish that has become synonymous with Galician cuisine. Visitors to O Carballiño can experience this specialty in a town that sits deep within the interior of the province, far from the ocean waters where the main ingredient is sourced.

Thermal Wealth and Springs 🛁

Ourense is considered one of the top destinations for thermalism in the region. The province possesses significant resources dedicated to wellness and hydrotherapy.

The thermal infrastructure includes:

• Eight balnearios (spas) dedicated to therapeutic treatments.
• More than half a dozen official thermal springs located outdoors.
• Unregulated hot springs that are free to use, specifically the surgencias calientes at the Río Caldo and in Bande.

These natural hot springs provide a unique experience for residents and tourists alike, utilizing the geothermal activity of the area.

Monumental Heritage and History 🏰

The Ourense profundo (deep Ourense) refers to the rural and historical heart of the province. This area is home to one of the largest concentrations of monumental heritage in all of Spain.

The historical significance of the region is visible through its architecture. Visitors can find:

• Large-scale Roman engineering works, including bridges that have stood for centuries.
• Majestic Romanesque cenobios (monasteries) that highlight the region's religious history.

Additionally, the capital city itself features unique architectural quirks, such as the Plaza Mayor, which is famous for being inclined. The landscape is further enriched by endless forests of carballos, contributing to the province's deep, historical atmosphere.