The natural pools of Málaga one by one: the coldest, the refreshing, the secret, the family-friendly...

Málaga is not only synonymous with beaches and hidden coves. The province treasures an endless array of natural corners where you can cool off in the mountains. From river canyons to pools hidden among mountain ranges, the natural pools of Málaga form a landscape of crystal-clear waters and cool nooks that traverse its various river basins. Below, a detailed review of some of the most unique ones and how to get to them.

Vado de los Patos, the hidden treasure of the Chíllar river

In Nerja, along the route that follows the gorges of the Chíllar river, you find Vado de los Patos. To access it, start from Pescia Avenue and follow the Almanchares path. After passing the old quarry and the Salto Grande power plant, the river narrows and the gorges appear. Vado de los Patos emerges after nearly 8 kilometers, offering a spectacular river environment.

Pools of the Sábar river, among olive trees and bridges

Located between Periana and Riogordo, these pools are next to the bridge that crosses the Sábar river, on the A-7204 road. After descending a path among olive trees, you reach the riverbank, from which the bridge is visible. This spot is one of the most accessible in the interior of the Axarquía.

Charco del Infierno, at the tail of the Casasola reservoir

Charco del Infierno, from above.

Located near km 18 of the A-7075 road between Málaga and Antequera, the Charco del Infierno is a long pool with an attractive natural environment. Access is via a lane that starts from the marked kilometer point. The place is located in the area known as the tail of the Casasola reservoir.

The Jorox gorge: Charco de la Caldera and Charco del Pontón Alto

In the Sierra de las Nieves, the hamlet of Jorox (Alozaina) offers two river sites: the Charco de la Caldera, with its 22-meter waterfall, and the Charco del Pontón Alto. The former is reached after descending a path hidden by vegetation, while the latter requires following a track that passes by the San Augusto power plant.

Tolox and El Burgo: Charco de la Virgen and Largo del Dique

From Tolox, a trail leads to the Charco de la Virgen, 2.3 km from the Fuente Amargosa spa. Meanwhile, from El Burgo, you can reach the Charco Largo del Dique, after traveling a lane that delves into the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park.

El Turón and the Charco de la Olla