Caldes De Montbui: Thermal History and Culture
Accommodation in Caldes De Montbui
Caldes De Montbui brings together thermal waters, art and trails through the surrounding area. If you are looking for a hotel for your stay, you can choose your focus based on whether you are most interested in the history of thermal water, the collections or spending time outdoors. These different themes give your visit a clear framework—from a tour of the thermal sites to a longer hike or bike ride.
Thermal Waters and the City's History
The thermal springs of Caldes De Montbui emerge at temperatures above 74 °C. When thermal activity resumed in the 19th century, the town became Spain's second most important spa town. Banys Termals El Safareig was established in March 2015 by converting an existing thermal washhouse into the first public baths in Caldes De Montbui. The complex includes a balcony overlooking the vegetable gardens and the natural surroundings along the Riera promenade. El Safareig is part of a tour of three sites that showcases two different public uses of thermal water. This theme highlights both the temperature of the springs and the different ways the water is used.
Museums and Architectural Heritage
The Mas Manolo collection is on permanent display at the Museu Thermalia. It includes the most significant public display of sculptor and painter Manolo Hugué's work, as well as a remarkable series of ceramics, lithographs and drawings by his friend Pablo Picasso. Can Delger preserves objects and furniture from a stately home belonging to the rural bourgeoisie. The Safareig de la Portalera on Carrer de la Muralla offers another perspective on the architectural heritage: it is included in the catalogue of the old town's architectural heritage and offers views of the Riera's vegetable gardens. The art collection, domestic furnishings and architectural heritage thus provide different cultural points of interest during your stay.
Hiking and Cycling Routes
Caldes De Montbui offers eight different hiking routes. Easy routes, such as the Route del Remei or the trail to the Iberian settlement of Torre Roja, take no more than an hour. At the other end of the spectrum is the more challenging five-hour Route dels Ermitans. This difference in duration and difficulty can help you distinguish a shorter outing from a longer hike. The Can Rius meeting point also offers ten mountain-biking routes: distances range from 28 kilometres around Caldes De Montbui to 64 kilometres on the Caldes–Castellterçol–Sant Julià d'Uxols route. There are also eight family-friendly routes through the surrounding area. As route conditions can change, check the conditions for your chosen route before setting out.
Thermal Cuisine and Event Dates
The Mercat de l'Olla showcases thermal cuisine and promotes quality regional products. The fair is held regularly; in 2025, it took place for the 13th time. A 1,600-litre cauldron was used for that edition, in which the traditional thermal broth was slowly cooked over a wood fire. More than 6,000 portions were prepared and distributed over the weekend. The Festa del Foc i l'Aigua is also part of the events calendar: it is celebrated on the second Saturday of July each year, and the EscaldĂ rium takes place as part of the festivities. If a festival is the reason for your trip, check the specific event dates in advance.
Getting There by Bus
Regular, express and night intercity buses operate from the Caldes De Montbui bus station. Timetables and routes may change, so check the connections you need before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Vilanova del Vallès, Guardiola De Font-RubĂ, Prats de Lluçanès, Montseny, Sant Llorenç d'Hortons, Santa Margarida de Montbui, TeiĂ , Can Trabal.
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