The natural pool in Málaga with the coldest water in all of Andalusia:

In the heart of the Serranía de Ronda, one of the most unique and refreshing spots in the province of Málaga is hidden. This is the Cueva del Gato, a natural site that combines a cave, waterfall, and pool in the same environment, creating a landscape that seems taken from a postcard. This enclave, located in the municipality of Benaoján, is known for the extreme coldness of its waters, which remain practically frozen even on the hottest days of the Andalusian summer, hence it is called the Charco Frío.

The Cueva del Gato is part of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, a protected area that includes canyons, caves, and mountains of great scenic and environmental value. Its main attraction is the natural pool of crystal-clear waters that originates right at the exit of the cave, where the Guadares river reappears after a subterranean journey.

The interior of the Cueva del Gato houses the Hundidero-Gato system, one of the most extensive underground networks in Andalusia. Its chambers reach impressive heights of up to 70 meters, equivalent to a twenty-story building. This space also serves as a refuge for one of the largest bat colonies in Spain, with an estimated population of over 100,000 specimens.

During its journey of about four kilometers underground, the Guadares river flows through galleries and lakes until it emerges outside, where it forms a waterfall that flows into the natural pool. This phenomenon explains the temperature of its waters: the underground flow keeps the water at freezing levels all year round, making it one of the coldest bathing areas in Andalusia.

An environment of nature and biodiversity

The site not only stands out for the spectacular nature of the cave and its Charco Frío. The entire environment is surrounded by abundant vegetation and wildlife, which reinforces its natural character and scenic appeal. The presence of birds of different species is constant in the area, making the Cueva del Gato particularly valued by nature observation enthusiasts as well.

Visitors find themselves in a space where the force of water, the shade of vegetation, and the richness of the ecosystem of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park coexist.

How to get to Cueva del Gato

Access to this enclave is from the municipality of Benaoján, a small white village in the Serranía de Ronda located a few kilometers from the city of Ronda. From the hamlet of Estación de Benaoján, on the banks of the Guadiaro river, a simple hiking trail of approximately two kilometers leads to the Cueva del Gato.

The trail runs along an ancient livestock route and allows you to discover along the way points of interest such as the Charco de la Barranca, with its small waterfall, or the remains of ancient flour mills that recall the historical importance of the area. The last stretch of the route coincides with a medieval trail built over a Roman road that linked the ancient cities of Carteia and Acinipo.

Regulated access in summer season

During the summer months, the Benaoján City Council regulates access to the pond to preserve the environment and ensure the safety of bathers. A symbolic entry fee is established: 2 euros for adults and 1 euro for children under 12 from Monday to Friday, while on weekends and holidays the price rises to 2.5 euros for adults and 1.5 euros for children. Additionally, a lifeguard service remains active during the summer season.