Best lakes around Muíños, a municipality in Ourense, Galicia, Spain, are primarily artificial lakes formed by dams. The region is home to the Embalse de Salas and Embalse de As Conchas, both significant reservoirs that shape the landscape. Located within the Gerês-Xurés Biosphere Reserve, these lakes offer a blend of natural beauty and historical interest. The area is characterized by its protected natural spaces and hydrological infrastructure.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
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An excellent place to end the tour, as we can always get a hot shower.
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Hello, I would like to do this trail but I would like to know if you make stops among the points where you took photos and to know how many minutes you stayed at the points. Thank you for your feedback 😊
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Known for their hot waters and therapeutic properties, the waters emerge at a temperature of around 77ºC, although the thermal pools are regulated to offer bathing at more comfortable temperatures, around 40ºC. These hot springs are rich in minerals such as sodium, calcium and bicarbonate, and are believed to help in the treatment of rheumatic and skin conditions.
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The bridge stands out for its integration into the natural environment, crossing the reservoir that is fed by the Salas River. It is an important route for both local traffic and visitors moving around the Encoro de Salas Park, facilitating access to the hiking trails and recreational areas surrounding the reservoir. The combination of the bridge with the reservoir and the surrounding mountainous landscape makes it a visually attractive spot for nature and photography lovers.
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The Encoro de Salas Park, located in the province of Ourense, Galicia, surrounds the Salas Reservoir, a dam built on the Salas River, in a mountainous natural environment full of biodiversity. The reservoir, with a storage capacity of 21 million cubic meters, was built primarily for the production of hydroelectric energy. Its length is approximately 3 km, and the area of the reservoir occupies about 126 hectares.
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The Roman Baths of Bande, or Aquis Querquennis, in Ourense, are part of an ancient Roman military camp from the 1st century AD, located next to the As Conchas reservoir. This archaeological complex includes ruins of barracks and walls, along with thermal baths fed by 50ºC thermal waters known for their medicinal properties. It is a site of great historical and tourist interest, combining nature and history in a unique setting.
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Great routes bordering the Las Conchas reservoir.
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The region around Muíños is rich in history, particularly with Roman heritage. You can visit the Aquis Querquennis Roman Camp, an archaeological complex located on the shores of the As Conchas reservoir. This site, once crossed by the Roman Vía Nova, is sometimes submerged when water levels are high. Additionally, the Roman Baths of Bande, also near the As Conchas dam, offer another glimpse into Roman times, becoming visible when water levels drop.
Yes, there are numerous hiking opportunities. You can find trails that border the As Conchas reservoir, offering scenic views. For more detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Muíños guide, which includes routes like "As Mice by the Moorish Cottage – Salas Dam" and various loops from Pitões das Junias.
The lakes are primarily reservoirs within the Baixa Limia – Serra do Xurés natural park, a World Biosphere Reserve. You'll encounter diverse biodiversity around the Salas Reservoir Park, which collects rainwater and snowmelt from the Salas River. The area is characterized by mountainous landscapes and protected natural spaces.
Many areas around the lakes are family-friendly. For instance, the Río Caldo Hot Springs are a natural monument with thermal pools regulated for comfortable bathing, making them a great option for all ages. The Salas Reservoir Park also offers recreational areas suitable for families.
Yes, swimming is possible in certain areas. The As Conchas Reservoir is suitable for water activities, including swimming, particularly near the Roman ruins of Aquis Querquennis. Additionally, the Río Caldo Hot Springs offer thermal pools for bathing, with waters regulated to around 40ºC.
The best time to visit often depends on your interests. For viewing historical sites like the Roman Camp and Baths, lower water levels, typically in drier seasons, are ideal. For hiking and general outdoor activities, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures. The thermal springs are enjoyable year-round.
Absolutely. The region offers various cycling routes. You can find road cycling options in the Road Cycling Routes around Muíños guide, including routes that take you past the As Conchas Dam and Roman ruins, or through the scenic areas near the Río Caldo Hot Springs.
The Rio Salas Bridge offers amazing views over the Embalse de Salas, especially with the surrounding mountainous landscape, making it a visually attractive spot for photography. The Salas Reservoir Park also provides excellent viewpoints.
The Río Caldo Hot Springs are known for their therapeutic properties, with waters emerging at around 77ºC, then regulated to about 40ºC for bathing. These mineral-rich waters are believed to aid in treating rheumatic and skin conditions, and the site has historical ties to Roman settlements.
The Baixa Limia-Serra do Xurés Natural Park generally welcomes dogs on trails, provided they are kept under control, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock. Always check specific local regulations for protected areas and ensure responsible pet ownership, including waste disposal.
As part of the Baixa Limia – Serra do Xurés natural park, a World Biosphere Reserve, the area around the lakes is rich in biodiversity. You can expect to observe various bird species, especially waterfowl around the reservoirs, and potentially other local fauna within the surrounding natural landscapes.


Still not found your perfect lake around Muíños? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.