10 best spas to relax during the long weekend in December

The december long weekend is just around the corner, and it is the perfect excuse to take a break and give ourselves a good rest. This long weekend is the perfect excuse to disconnect from the routine We are looking forward to a new year with a new face.

We have prepared a list of some of the most important best spas and health resorts in Spain ideal for a weekend of total relaxation. From hot springs in the mountains to treatments in front of the sea, there are options for all tastes. So, get ready for leave stress behind and start the year renewed.

1. Mondariz Spa: medicinal waters and golf

If you want to disconnect in the middle of nature, the Mondariz Spa is a perfect choice. This Galician spa, with more than 140 years of history, combines tradition and modernity. Its mineral-medicinal waters The new products, famous for their health benefits, will make you feel as good as new.

What we liked the most was the Celtic Circuit a thermal tour with pools, saunas and jacuzzis inspired by the Celtic culture. Tip: go early in the morning to enjoy it with more tranquility. In addition, the Water Palace is an area with jets and waterfalls that you will love.

If you are a fan of golf have a 18-hole course in a spectacular setting. We did not play, but the walks through the woods and along the banks of the Tea River are a wonderful way to disconnect.

Another must is to try the Galician cuisine in its restaurants. Do not miss the galician style octopus and filloas (filloas) the best! In addition, Mondariz is close to Vigo and Pontevedra, so it is easy to get there. An ideal place to relax on the December long weekend. Book in advance, because it is usually full.

• Location: Pontevedra, Galicia
• Price range: medium-high $$$$

Recommended accommodations for the spa 🛏️

• Balnea O Pazo: Charming lodging that offers a rustic environment with modern facilities, ideal for enjoying the tranquility and wellbeing of the spa.
• Villa Termal Mondariz Balneario Apartment: Spacious and bright apartment, perfectly equipped for a comfortable and relaxing stay in the surroundings of the spa.
• Exclusive apartment in the former Gran Hotel del Balneario de MondarizThis apartment combines the historic charm of the old Grand Hotel with modern comforts, offering a unique experience of luxury and relaxation.

2. Termas de Archena: thermal pools in a natural environment

Located in the heart of Ricote Valley This spa is surrounded by a natural environment incredible, right on the banks of the Segura River. Its mineral-medicinal waters, which spring at over 50°C, have been known since Roman times for their therapeutic properties.

In Archena you can enjoy thermal pools outdoor and indoor hot tubs, jacuzzis, saunas and a wide variety of wellness treatments. We tried the thermal circuit and came away completely refreshed. In addition, Murcia's mild winter climate is ideal for a getaway at this time of year.

As good foodies we always recommend you to try the local cuisine: especially the zarangollo and the meatloaf. If you have time, explore the beautiful nearby villages of the Ricote Valley: Archena, Ojós, Ulea, any is a good option!

• Location: Murcia
• Price range: medium $$

Recommended accommodations for the spa 🛏️

• Balneario de Archena - Hotel LeónThis hotel offers direct access to the thermal pools of the spa and a traditional atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the benefits of the mineral-medicinal waters.
• Balneario de Archena - Termas HotelElegant lodging that combines history and wellness, with a wide range of thermal treatments in a relaxing and luxurious environment.
• Archybal Tourist Apartments and Suites: Modern and spacious self-catering apartments, ideal for families or long stays, offering everything you need for a comfortable and flexible stay.
• Balneario de Archena - Hotel LevanteThis modern hotel with access to thermal facilities offers a first-class spa service, ideal for a restful and rejuvenating experience.
• Balnea Experiences - Apartments with Outdoor Pool, Jacuzzi and Fitness CenterExclusive apartments with luxury facilities, including outdoor pool, jacuzzi and gym, perfect for a complete getaway of relaxation and wellness.

3. Lanjarón Spa: in the heart of the Sierra de Granada.

To disconnect in the middle of nature, the Lanjarón Spa in the Granada Alpujarrais a plan that you can not miss. We went there last year and the truth is that the pure mountain air and the waters of Lanjarón make you go home as good as new.

The spa offers a wide range of thermal treatments From relaxing baths to massages with local products such as olive oil or aromatic herbs. We tried a massage with rosemary, and how wonderful! We left there super relaxed. And if you like walking or hiking The surroundings are perfect for getting lost among the trails and enjoying the views of Sierra Nevada.

Here you can also take advantage of the opportunity to take a tour of the white villages of the Alpujarra which are just a stone's throw away: Pampaneira, Capileira, o Soportújar are some of the most beautiful. Don't leave without tasting some good tapas or a alpujarreño dish; the Trevélez ham and the honey of the area are of a different level.

• Location: Granada, Andalusia
• Price range: medium $$

Recommended accommodations for the spa 🛏️

• Hotel Balneario de LanjarónThis hotel offers a complete wellness experience, with direct access to the thermal waters of Lanjarón and a wide variety of health and beauty treatments in a unique natural environment.

4. Castilla Termal Monastery of Valbuena: luxury monastery

Can you imagine relaxing in a 12th century monastery converted into a luxury spa? Well, that's exactly what we find in the Castilla Termal Monastery of Valbuena in the heart of Ribera del Duero. The experience is unique: between history, wellness and wine, we feel in another world.

The thermal pools and saunas are a joy, and have a variety of treatments that will make you forget any stress. In addition, the rooms retain a historic feel, but with all the comforts. One thing we loved was the wine tourism You are surrounded by some of the best vineyards in Spain! We made a tasting and it is a plan that we recommend 100%.

The gastronomy of this area is also a real delight. You cannot leave without trying the roast lamb typical dish of the area, or the tapas from its bars especially in Correos Street and Plaza Mayor. In addition, the local cheeses and sausages pair perfectly with the wines of Ribera del Duero.

• Location: Valladolid, Castilla y León
• Price range: high $$$$

Recommended accommodations for the spa 🛏️

• Castilla Termal Monastery of ValbuenaA stunning spa hotel located in a restored monastery, offering a unique experience of luxury, wellness and tranquility in a historic setting.
• La Casona de Valbuena Inn: Cozy inn with rustic charm, ideal for enjoying the tranquility of the countryside with all the modern comforts.
• Las Bodegas Rural House: Cottage equipped for a relaxing stay, surrounded by vineyards and nature, perfect for a quiet getaway.

5. Panticosa Spa: relaxation and skiing

If you like the mountains and you really want to relax, the Panticosa Spa in the Aragonese Pyrenees is your site. It is at 1,630 meters of altitude So imagine the peace of the environment, only nature can be heard! Its hot springs, known since the Romans, are a great place to disconnect and recharge your batteries.

The thermal pools have brutal views There is nothing like being in the warm water while looking at the snow-capped mountains all around. In addition, there is saunas, Turkish baths and treatments that will leave you looking as good as new. And in winter, the best thing: you can combine the relax with a day of skiing in the resorts of Panticosa or Formigal, which are very close.

To top it off, the Aragonese food here is 10. Try the typical dishes in their restaurants. So now you know, if you want a getaway with nature, relaxation and adventure, Panticosa does not fail.

• Location: Huesca, Aragon
• Price range: medium $$

Recommended accommodations for the spa 🛏️

• Hotel Continental Balneario de PanticosaModern hotel with direct access to the spa, combining contemporary design with spectacular natural surroundings, ideal for a wellness stay.
• Grand Hotel - Panticosa Spa ResortAn elegant historic hotel that offers a luxury experience in the heart of nature, with access to the thermal facilities of the spa.

6. Balneario de Alhama de Aragón: unique natural thermal lake.

If you feel like relaxing in a place with a history, the Alhama de Aragón Spa Resort is a very good option. It is in the province of Zaragoza and has thermal waters that come out at more than 30°C, perfect for a warm bath outdoors in the middle of December!

The best thing is its natural thermal lake unique in Spain and where you can bathe even in winter. In addition, they have a lot of treatments: massages, thermal circuits and even beauty therapies. All in modern facilities, but surrounded by historic buildings, so the atmosphere is amazing.

The people of Alhama de Aragón is super cozy. We loved strolling through its streets, discovering its corners and, of course, we enjoyed the Aragonese food in the local restaurants. And if you have time, the Stone Monastery is nearby, with waterfalls and gardens that look like something out of a fairy tale.

For a relaxing and cultural getaway in December, this spa is a great plan.

• Location: Zaragoza, Aragon
• Price range: medium $$

Recommended accommodations for the spa 🛏️

• Hotel Parque Balneario Termas Pallares Spa ParkHistoric hotel surrounded by an extensive natural park, with direct access to the thermal waters and natural lakes of the spa, ideal for a complete relaxation experience.
• Alhama de Aragón Spa HotelA modern spa hotel that combines wellness facilities with thermal treatments, perfect for a stay of relaxation and renewal.
• Hotel Termas Balneario Termas Pallares Spa HotelThis elegant hotel offers a thermal wellness experience in a historic setting, with direct access to the mineral-medicinal waters and extensive spa facilities.

7. Barceló Montecastillo Golf & Spa: 5-star luxury

If you feel like combining relaxation and a touch of luxury in a sunny environment, the Barceló Montecastillo Golf & Spa in Jerez is amazing. This five-star resort It has it all: an incredible spa and a perfect golf course to disconnect in the December long weekend and take advantage of the good Andalusian weather.

The spa is one of those that leave you feeling like new: heated pools, saunas, Turkish baths and treatments that you won't want to end. And after relaxing, you can take a stroll around the golf course or explore the corners of Jerez. Don't miss their wineries and a flamenco show, these are unique experiences!

In the restaurant you can taste the best of the Andalusian cuisine and international dishes, and the rooms are modern and very comfortable, to make your stay perfect. If you are looking for a place where you can take care of yourselves and enjoy yourselves to the fullest, the Barceló Montecastillo will not let you down.

• Location: Jerez de la Frontera, Andalucía
• Price range: high $$$$

Recommended accommodations for the spa 🛏️

• Barceló Montecastillo GolfLuxury resort offering an 18-hole golf course, spa with exclusive treatments and a relaxing experience in a privileged natural environment.
• Barceló Jerez Montecastillo & Convention CenterModern and versatile hotel with spa and golf facilities, ideal for relaxation as well as for events and conventions, all in a peaceful setting.

8. Gran Hotel Las Caldas: luxury in nature

For a relaxing getaway in the heart of nature, the Las Caldas Grand Hotel in Asturiasis a choice of ten. A few kilometers from Oviedo, this spa has the best of a five-star hotel and a spa. Surrounded by mountains and green everywhere, it is a perfect place to disconnect during the December long weekend.

The spa has thermal pools, saunas, steam baths and wellness treatments that will make you forget any stress. Its El Manantial Thermal Center is ideal for a water circuit and enjoy personalized therapies. In addition, the tranquil atmosphere of the hotel invites you not to want to leave.

As a good Asturian destination, the food here is wonderful. Try the typical asturian dishes If you have time, the surroundings are beautiful: Oviedo is just a stone's throw away, and you can take the opportunity to do some hiking and enjoy nature.

• Location: Oviedo, Asturias
• Price range: high $$$$

Recommended accommodations for the spa 🛏️

• House in Villa Termal Las Caldas: Cozy house located in the thermal village, ideal for a quiet stay in a natural environment with access to the thermal benefits.
• Gran Hotel Las Caldas by blau hotelsLuxury hotel combining modern facilities and an exclusive spa, offering a complete wellness experience in the heart of Las Caldas.
• Las Caldas by blau hotelsElegant spa hotel in an unparalleled natural setting, offering a wide range of thermal treatments and relaxation activities.
• The Blue House of Las CaldasCharming rural house with a rustic and cozy atmosphere, perfect to disconnect in nature near the hot springs.
• Las Caldas Spa and Spa El Balneario ApartmentsComfortable and modern apartments with direct access to the thermal facilities, ideal for a relaxing and wellness getaway in Oviedo.

9. Fuencaliente Spa: thermal relaxation

The Fuencaliente Spa is one of the top places in Castilla-La Mancha to really disconnect. Its waters, besides being relaxing, are very good for bones, skin and respiratory problems. If you are looking for natural treatments that leave you feeling like new, Fuencaliente does not disappoint.

The spa has everything: massages, thermal water circuits and personalized treatments. The indoor and outdoor pools and saunas are designed to put you in total relaxation mode.

And the best thing is the environment. Being in the middle of Sierra Madrona You can combine the getaway with hiking trails and brutal landscapes. So if you feel like a plan of peace, health and nature in one place, Fuencaliente is a ten option!

• Location: Ciudad Real, Castilla-La Mancha
• Price range: low-mid $

Recommended accommodations for the spa 🛏️

• Hotel Peña EscritaA cozy hotel in the heart of the city Fuencaliente perfect to combine your stay at the spa with the tranquility of a rural environment.
• Hotel Sierra MadronaLocated in the Sierra Madrona this hotel is ideal if you like nature. In addition to the thermal treatments in Fuencaliente, here you can enjoy hiking trails and breathtaking views.
• House in Fuencaliente with JacuzziIf you prefer something more private, this house with jacuzzi is perfect to relax in your own way while enjoying the thermal environment of Fuencaliente.

10. Baños de Montemayor Spa: sulfurous waters.

The Baños de Montemayor Spa Resort has been doing this since Roman times. Its sulphurous waters are great for relieving bone and breathing issues. In addition, you can still bathe in the ancient roman baths which is great if you like to mix history with a touch of relaxation.

Although it has this historical basis, the facilities are state-of-the-art. They have everything: thermal pools, saunas, therapeutic showers and a medical team that prepares personalized programs for you to get the most out of these waters. Everything is designed for you to relax to 100%.

The spa is surrounded by mountains and lots of greenery, so apart from the treatments, you can go hiking or get lost in the beautiful town of Montemayor or even go to Cáceres. In short, this place has it all: history, wellness and nature in one - ideal for a December getaway!

• Location: Cáceres, Extremadura
• Price range: low-mid $

Recommended accommodations for the spa 🛏️

• Gran Hotel BalnearioThis hotel combines tradition and well-being in the heart of Baños de Montemayor. Perfect if you are looking to enjoy the thermal waters in a relaxed atmosphere, with modern facilities and everything you need to disconnect.

Tips for Planning your Getaway

Before you go for a relaxing getaway during the December long weekend, here are some tips to help you get the most out of it:

• Reserve with enough time in advance.
• Search for the best deals.
• Take the opportunity to go sightseeing and get to know the area.
• Try the local cuisine in typical restaurants.
• Don't forget to take it with you:
  • Comfortable clothing to move around the spa.
  • Swimsuit, flip-flops y swimming pool cap (although many sites provide them).
  • And, of course, a great desire to disconnect!

If you want to read other articles ideal for your trip that complement 10 best spas to relax during the long weekend in December you can visit our posts about National Routes.