How to escape Málaga’s terral: 8 natural swimming pools to cool off this summer

The terral is a familiar part of summer in Málaga. During its most intense spells, the hot, dry wind can make walking around the city or the Costa del Sol particularly uncomfortable. Beaches, swimming pools and air-conditioned spaces are the most common ways to find relief, but they are not the only options.

The province of Málaga is home to numerous river pools, natural swimming spots and freshwater lagoons formed by waterways running through the Serranía de Ronda, Sierra de las Nieves, Genal Valley and Axarquía.

Some are relatively easy to reach, while others require walking along trails and taking extra care on uneven or slippery terrain.

These are eight natural swimming pools in Málaga that can offer the perfect escape from the terral during the summer months.

Charco Frío, a refreshing swim beside the Cueva del Gato in Benaoján

The name itself gives visitors a clue about what to expect at this natural spot in Benaoján. Charco Frío is formed by the River Gaduares as it emerges from the underground cave system of the Cueva del Gato, and its waters are known for their particularly low temperature.

The natural pool is surrounded by rocky walls, vegetation and the striking landscapes of the Serranía de Ronda. The contrast between the summer heat and the water flowing from inside the mountain makes this one of the most refreshing bathing spots in the province.

The Málaga Provincial Council classifies the access as easy and gives the location a high rating for swimming. The usual route begins on the MA-7401 road linking Ronda and Benaoján, near the Cueva del Gato viewpoint.

Official information about Charco Frío

Charco de las Mozas, nature just minutes from Benahavís

As the River Guadalmina passes through Benahavís, it creates several calm stretches and natural pools. One of the best known is Charco de las Mozas, located before reaching the town centre.

Its proximity to the Costa del Sol makes it an appealing option for visitors staying in Marbella, Estepona or San Pedro Alcántara who want to exchange the beach for a riverside landscape for a few hours.

Access begins from the A-7175 road, at approximately kilometre 6.2. Although the location is relatively easy to find, the surrounding terrain is rocky and visitors should walk carefully, particularly where the stones are wet.

The Málaga Provincial Council gives the location a medium rating for swimming.

Official information about Charco de las Mozas

Charca de las Nutrias, a hidden freshwater spot in Estepona

Estepona also has natural freshwater spaces away from its famous coastline. Charca de las Nutrias is located on the River Castor, surrounded by riverside vegetation that contrasts with the more developed areas of the Costa del Sol.

The pool is an attractive choice for anyone looking to combine a walk along the river with a swim in natural surroundings.

Access is considered easy and begins from the A-7, taking exit 160 and continuing towards the Viveros Estepona area.

The flow and depth of the water may vary depending on the season and rainfall recorded during the preceding months. Visitors should therefore check conditions before travelling and avoid walking in the riverbed when there is a risk of flooding.

Official information about Charca de las Nutrias

Charco Puente de San Juan, one of the Genal River’s most popular swimming spots

The River Genal is home to some of the best-known natural bathing areas in inland Málaga. Among them is Charco Puente de San Juan, located on a stretch of river between the municipalities of Algatocín and Jubrique.

It is one of the most popular summer swimming spots for residents of the Serranía de Ronda and visitors travelling from other areas of Málaga and the Campo de Gibraltar.

Its wide pool, riverside landscape and easy access help explain its popularity. The official guide gives it a high rating for swimming, although it can become particularly busy on summer weekends.

Official information about Charco Puente de San Juan

Charco de la Escribana, shade and calm waters in Benarrabá

Also located in the Genal Valley is Charco de la Escribana, which belongs to the municipality of Benarrabá.

This natural pool has shaded areas provided by olive trees and riverside vegetation. Much of the swimming area is relatively shallow, although conditions can change depending on the river flow.

Several hiking routes pass through the area, including sections linked to the Gran Senda de la Serranía de Ronda and the Gran Senda de Málaga. This makes it possible to combine swimming with a walk through one of the greenest landscapes in the province.

The Málaga Provincial Council classifies access as easy and gives the pool a high rating for swimming.

Official information about Charco de la Escribana

Charco de la Virgen, a waterfall in the Sierra de las Nieves

Tolox is home to one of the most recognisable natural landscapes in the Sierra de las Nieves: Charco de la Virgen.

The pool is formed by the River Grande beneath a waterfall and is surrounded by a mountain landscape that invites visitors to stop and enjoy the scenery.

Reaching the site requires following a trail that begins near the Tolox spa. Visitors should therefore start the walk early and avoid the hottest part of the day when high temperatures are forecast.

The route can also be extended into a circular walk of approximately ten kilometres.

The Málaga Provincial Council considers the access easy and gives the location a medium rating for swimming. Beyond the opportunity to cool off, its main attractions are the trail, the waterfall and the scenery of the Sierra de las Nieves National Park.

Official information about Charco de la Virgen

Charco Largo del Dique, clear waters in El Burgo

The River Turón flows through some of the most attractive landscapes around El Burgo, creating several stretches of calm water that have traditionally been used for swimming during the summer.

One of the most notable is Charco Largo del Dique, located within the protected surroundings of the Sierra de las Nieves. Its landscape combines clear water, riverside vegetation and pine-covered mountains.

Access from El Burgo is classified as easy, and the location has a high rating for swimming.

Visitors must nevertheless respect the rules of the protected area, remain on authorised paths and avoid any activity that could cause a forest fire.

Official information about Charco Largo del Dique

River Sábar pools, a natural alternative in the Axarquía

Visitors staying in the Axarquía can travel to Alfarnatejo to discover the natural pools of the River Sábar.

The site consists of two calm stretches of water located beside the El Río recreational area and connected by small artificial waterfalls.

The surrounding landscape is different from the river pools of the Serranía de Ronda, with limestone formations dominating this inland part of the Axarquía.

Access is from the road linking Periana and Riogordo, taking the turn towards Alfarnatejo. The Málaga Provincial Council classifies the route as easy, making the pools an appealing addition to a day trip through the inland villages of the Axarquía.

Official information about the River Sábar pools

Advice for visiting Málaga’s natural swimming pools

Natural pools and river bathing areas are not the same as conventional swimming pools. Their flow, depth, temperature and general condition can change quickly.

Before travelling, visitors should check the advice issued by the corresponding local council and confirm whether there are any temporary restrictions on access or swimming.

The following precautions are also recommended:

• Wear suitable footwear for walking over rocks and wet surfaces.
• Never jump from rocks when the depth of the water is unknown.
• Supervise children at all times.
• Do not use soap, shampoo or other products in the water.
• Take all rubbish away and avoid leaving food waste behind.
• Never light fires or use barbecues in forest areas.
• Park only in authorised spaces without blocking paths or access roads.
• Avoid swimming after heavy rain or when the river has a strong current.

Visitors should not assume that these locations have lifeguards, toilets, bins or reliable mobile phone coverage.

Carrying drinking water, using sun protection and checking the weather forecast can help prevent problems.

A refreshing alternative beyond Málaga’s beaches

Escaping the terral does not always mean heading towards the sea. Inland Málaga offers cool landscapes, white villages, walking routes and rivers where visitors can discover a less familiar side of the province.

Charco Frío, the River Genal and the pools of the Sierra de las Nieves provide the setting for a different kind of summer excursion, but their preservation depends directly on responsible visitor behaviour.

Information about these locations, their access routes and their suitability for swimming comes from the official Natural Pools and River Swimming Areas Guide published by the Málaga Provincial Council.