Terme di Casteldoria
Free, natural thermal springs and mud baths by the Coghinas River, with a nearby medieval castle tower.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Terme di Casteldoria
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Free, natural thermal springs and mud baths by the Coghinas River, with a nearby medieval castle tower.
"A beautiful spot with natural thermal springs, shame the derelict hotel is there."
Free Natural Baths
Enjoy the thermal springs for free! The water is naturally heated, offering a unique spa experience.
Hot Water Alert!
Some pools can be very hot (up to 70°C). Test the water carefully and explore to find your ideal temperature.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Natural Thermal Pools
Coghinas River banks
Soak in naturally heated, mineral-rich waters flowing directly from the earth. A truly rejuvenating experience.
Mud Baths
Along the river
Indulge in therapeutic mud treatments, a natural spa experience surrounded by lush greenery.
Castello di Casteldoria Tower
Hilltop overlooking the springs
Explore the ruins of a medieval tower for historical insights and stunning views of the valley.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Natural Springs
History Meets Nature
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Natural Baths
Enjoy the thermal springs for free! The water is naturally heated, offering a unique spa experience.
Hot Water Alert!
Some pools can be very hot (up to 70°C). Test the water carefully and explore to find your ideal temperature.
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The paths can be slippery, especially after rain. Sneakers or hiking shoes are recommended for exploring.
Pack Accordingly
Bring swimwear, towels, and water. Consider a waterproof bag for your belongings.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Natural Baths
Enjoy the thermal springs for free! The water is naturally heated, offering a unique spa experience.
Hot Water Alert!
Some pools can be very hot (up to 70°C). Test the water carefully and explore to find your ideal temperature.
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The paths can be slippery, especially after rain. Sneakers or hiking shoes are recommended for exploring.
Pack Accordingly
Bring swimwear, towels, and water. Consider a waterproof bag for your belongings.
Explore the Castle Tower
Hike up to the medieval tower for historical context and scenic vistas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the free, natural thermal springs at Terme di Casteldoria, praising the beautiful setting and therapeutic waters. While the abandoned hotel is seen as an eyesore, the natural bathing experience and the nearby historical castle tower are significant draws for those seeking a unique, off-the-beaten-path destination.
"The Hotel/SPA is closed and has been a while, but the river below it has Thermal Springs which are available for a natural bathing experience.
You can cross the bridge and that was OK even whilst the seemingly permanent security was present.
The area is beautiful and the experience is really lovely, the depth is quite shallow and the water can be quite hot, but you can find a nice sport to relax and find a rock pool with a temperature which is to your taste.
Its really a beautiful spot, shame the derelict hotel is there, it should either be renovated or removed."
Nicholas Whyman
"A nice five sided castle/tower in the middle of the forest. It gazes with pride toward the sky and makes you envision the people living there. It has 5 levels, but as it is in renovation, you can't enter. Still, the place offers some great views towards the coast and the small lake below. The road and the parking are well maintained. The path is a bit step, recommend sneakers or other shoes with firm grip as the grawel gets slippery."
Alek Hojnik
"Abandoned castle on a neat ridge. About a 15 minute hike up a gravel road. Nothing much around except the tower, and it doesn't seem to be a popular place for tourist, which is nice if you like getting of the beaten path."
Timothy Black
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Terme di Casteldoria is located in Santa Maria Coghinas, Sardinia. You can reach it by car, and there's usually parking available near the bridge. The natural springs are a short walk from the road. 
Public transport options might be limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car for easier access to this natural site. Check local bus schedules for Santa Maria Coghinas or Viddalba.
You can typically access the springs by crossing the bridge and walking a short distance along the riverbanks. The area is quite accessible, though some paths can be uneven.
Terme di Casteldoria is located in the northern part of Sardinia. It's a bit of a drive from major cities like Cagliari or Olbia, so plan your journey accordingly.
Look for signs directing you towards Santa Maria Coghinas or Viddalba. Once in the vicinity, follow local directions or use GPS to find the access point near the river.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the natural thermal springs at Terme di Casteldoria are completely free to access and enjoy. It's a wonderful natural spa experience without any entry fees.
As natural springs, they are accessible year-round, 24/7. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entrance fee for the natural thermal springs. This is a public, natural site where you can relax and bathe freely.
The hotel itself is closed and has been for some time. Access to the hotel building is not permitted, but the natural springs nearby are open.
No booking is required as the natural springs are a free, open-access area. You can visit anytime.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The thermal waters can range from 40°C to 70°C, meaning some pools are very hot. It's advised to test the water temperature before entering and to explore to find a comfortable spot. +1
As a natural site, there are no dedicated facilities like changing rooms or toilets. It's best to come prepared and change discreetly or use facilities elsewhere if needed.
Definitely bring your swimwear, towels, and water. Some visitors also bring snacks, a mat to sit on, and perhaps a waterproof bag for valuables.
The water can be very hot, so exercise caution. The depth varies, and it's generally shallow. Always supervise children closely.
Yes, the waters are rich in minerals, and you can find natural mud for therapeutic treatments along the riverbanks.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique landscape where the hot springs meet the river, the surrounding lush nature, and the distant medieval tower. The contrast of the water and greenery is very photogenic.
Some visitors have used drones to capture aerial views of the thermal springs and the surrounding valley, showcasing the natural beauty.
You can get shots of people relaxing in the hot springs, close-ups of the mineral-rich water, and wider scenic views of the river and landscape.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography. However, always be respectful of other visitors' privacy.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting for your photos, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing the natural colors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during cooler parts of the day to make the experience more comfortable for younger ones. While the mud baths are a unique aspect, ensure children are comfortable with the texture and temperature. The free access makes it a budget-friendly outing for families looking to enjoy Sardinia's natural wonders.
🌿 Nature Lovers & Hikers
+1Wear appropriate footwear for the gravel paths leading to both the springs and the tower. The area is perfect for a day trip focused on relaxation and gentle exploration. Bring your camera to capture the unique landscape where hot springs meet the river.
🧘♀️ Wellness Seekers
+1This is a place to disconnect and immerse yourself in the healing power of nature. The free access allows for extended relaxation sessions, making it an ideal spot for a mindful escape. Remember to stay hydrated and listen to your body, especially with the high water temperatures.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Natural Thermal Springs
+2While the abandoned hotel nearby is a stark reminder of past grandeur, the true allure of Casteldoria lies in these free, accessible thermal waters. It's a place where you can truly connect with nature and enjoy a natural spa experience. Remember to explore the riverbanks to find the pools with your preferred temperature, as they can vary significantly.
Key features include the salsobromoiodic waters and the opportunity for natural mud therapy. The setting is idyllic, offering a peaceful escape from the everyday. It's a testament to Sardinia's natural wonders, providing a unique bathing experience that's both relaxing and invigorating.
History and Surroundings
The castle tower offers a glimpse into Sardinia's past, and a hike up to it provides rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Coghinas River and the distant coast. The path to the tower is described as a bit steep and gravelly, making sturdy footwear essential.
Beyond the castle, the broader region is characterized by its natural beauty, with the Coghinas River winding through the landscape. This combination of historical ruins and natural thermal activity makes Terme di Casteldoria a destination that appeals to both history buffs and nature lovers.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit