This Galician island has been known for its thermal baths for centuries, but its reputation as a place of healing began in the early 20th century. It was at this time that the Isla de La Toja Spa was founded and began to grow as a tourist attraction. Since then, La Toja has become one of Spain’s oldest and most famous health destinations. Read on to find out everything about this magnificent location!
A donkey, the first to feel the benefits of the hot springs
Characteristic of places like this, the origin of the resort is surrounded by legends and stories that are mixed with reality. To learn more about the origins of this temple of health and well-being, we must go back to the 19th century.
More than 175 years ago, the island of La Toja was nothing more than an inhospitable place that was difficult to access and covered in tojo bushes—hence its name. According to legend, a donkey was the key to discovering the island’s miraculous thermal benefits. The owner of the animal abandoned it there because it was suffering from ringworm and he wanted to avoid it spreading.
However, rather than dying, the donkey reappeared healthier and stronger than ever. The reason was none other than the medicinal properties of the water. In fact, Emilia Pardo Bazán, a key figure in Spanish literature, included this event in a text she wrote about La Toja.
This anecdote aroused the interest of the island’s owner, the Marquis of Riestra. Thanks to the research carried out by a botanist, in 1841 it was discovered that the island’s waters reached temperatures of between 30°C and 60°C, and were rich in calcium, iron, sodium and magnesium. This combination made them perfect for curing illnesses, and the Marquis had a brilliant idea for a business.
Early years of the spa
The spa eventually opened its doors in 1907. The building was revolutionary for the time, as it was the first time that reinforced concrete had been used in Galicia, which raised suspicions among the local residents. Even so, they soon realised that it was as safe a material as any other.
A tender was organised to decide on the facilities’ design, which was won by the architect Vázquez Gulías. This architect, native of Orense, was inspired by other renowned spa resorts, which resulted in a majestic building.
The first people to visit the island of La Toja and its spa were monarchs and aristocrats from all over Europe who, by the way, experienced a great deal of improvement during their stay. To prolong these effects, the Marquis had another great idea, to sell La Toja salts. At that time, the concept of personal hygiene was booming, which further boosted the island’s services and products.
However, this was put on hold due to the Spanish Civil War and the ensuing post-war period. After the Second World War, the spa underwent the first of many major refurbishments, in an effort to expand its facilities. Further refurbishments were then completed in the 1970s and 1990s.
Where is the La Toja Spa?
The La Toja Spa is located in the town of La Toja, in the Spanish province of Pontevedra. It’s located just off the Galician coast, on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, in the Pontevedra estuary. As you can guess, it is surrounded by a fascinating environment featuring the sea and beautiful white sand beaches.
The island is linked by a bridge to the town of O Grove, which is hugely popular thanks to its star product: seafood. And with only a ten-minute walk between them, it’s very easy to get to. Other charming places that are worth visiting are the towns of Cambados and Combarro, or Mount Santa Tecla, which is in the municipality of A Guarda.
There’s no doubt that it’s an ideal location to have the most relaxing holiday. There you’ll enjoy the healing properties of the hot springs, as well as the many charms of the area.
La Toja Spa and its prices
Do you want to know more about La Toja Spa and its prices? You should know that they vary depending on the type of visit, and the services you want. Therefore, you will find options ranging from €15 to €525. The best thing to do is to contact La Toja Spa by phone to find out about all its rates, discounts and offers.
Are you ready to experience for yourself all the benefits of this wonderful location’s hot springs? If so, make sure you have the best accommodation near the Isla de La Toja Spa. Remember that you can enjoy your premium accommodation with Villalia. Come on over! We can’t wait to see you!
