Roc del Metge Spring, Andorra

A real thermal spring in town, too hot to soak

Roc del Metge is a natural thermal spring in Escaldes-Engordany, presented as a public fountain stop on the town’s Water Route. The water emerges extremely hot at the source, so this is a look-and-leave kind of visit, not a bathing spot. It works well as a five-minute detour when you’re already in Escaldes for Caldea, shopping, or a walk by the river.

Why it matters in Andorra’s hot springs story

Escaldes exists where it does because of thermal water, and Roc del Metge is one of the springs tied to that history. Local information highlights the spring as a starting point for understanding how hot water shaped domestic life, early hotel culture, and eventually modern thermal tourism in the parish.

Think of it as a source point, not an attraction with facilities

You won’t find changing rooms, tubs, or a “soaking area” here. What you get is the simple proof of concept: steam, mineral-smelling water, and a sense of how hot the water is before it is cooled for spa use elsewhere in town.

Where it is
The Roc del Metge spring is in Escaldes-Engordany on Pont de la Tosca avenue, and it is described as the starting point of the parish’s Water Route. It’s an urban stop, not a mountain hike.

Getting there
Most visitors reach it on foot from central Escaldes-Engordany. If you are already headed to Caldea, you can pair the two in the same outing and treat the spring as a quick stop before or after your soak. If you arrive by car, park once, then walk rather than trying to pull up directly beside it.

What to bring
You do not need swim gear because you are not bathing. Bring normal walking clothes, and in winter add gloves, the water may be hot, but the air can be cold. If you want a photo, keep your phone secure, sidewalks can be wet around hot water features.

Seasonality
This is a year-round stop. In winter the steam can look dramatic, while in summer it is more of a quick curiosity. After rain or snowmelt, expect damp surfaces and slower footing.

Before you go
Plan to keep the visit brief and respectful. This is part of a living town, so look, learn, then move on without blocking the sidewalk.

Roc del Metge is best for travelers who like seeing the “source” behind a spa town. It’s a quick stop that adds context to Escaldes-Engordany’s thermal culture, and it pairs well with a proper soak at Caldea or a thermal pool elsewhere in town.

Families
Family friendly as a short, supervised visit. Kids usually find it fascinating, but the water is extremely hot, so keep hands, bottles, and curiosity at a safe distance. Treat it like a hot kettle, interesting to look at, not something to play with.

Expectations vs reality
This is not a bath. There are no tubs, no changing rooms, and no “soaking area.” If your plan is to get in warm water, schedule a spa or pool visit and use Roc del Metge as a fast add-on.

Mobility realities
Because it’s in town, access is simpler than backcountry springs, but expect normal urban constraints: curbs, wet patches, and tight space if other visitors are present. Move slowly if surfaces are damp.

Wheelchair expectations
I’m not claiming step-free curb cuts or an accessible viewing platform without verified details. If wheelchair access is essential, confirm the exact approach from the street and whether the viewing area has any steps or tight turns.

Scald risk is the whole story
This spring is hot enough to hurt you quickly. Local information describes Roc del Metge flowing at roughly 68 to 71°C, which is well beyond “testing with a toe.” Keep kids close, keep your hands away from the outlet, and don’t treat the water like something you can safely bottle or splash.

Watch your footing
Hot water features often mean wet stone and algae-friendly dampness. Walk slowly, especially in winter when runoff can freeze. If you’re taking photos, step to the side first, then lift your phone, it’s easy to lose balance when you’re looking at a screen.

Respect that this is a town space
Roc del Metge sits on an urban street, so the best etiquette is simple: take turns, keep the visit brief, and don’t block the sidewalk. If a group arrives, give them room, then come back for your look.

Leave it as you found it
Avoid adding soap, oils, or anything else to the water. Don’t toss coins or trash into the fountain area. Pack out what you bring, and keep the space easy for locals who walk by every day.

If you want a soak, choose a real facility
The kindest safety move is not trying to turn this into a bath. Use it as a “source point” visit, then go to Caldea or another managed thermal venue for actual bathing conditions.

Can you bathe at Roc del Metge?

No. This is a spring fountain stop, not a soaking pool. The water is far too hot at the source, and there are no bathing facilities.

How hot is the water?

Local information describes the Roc del Metge spring flowing at about 68 to 71°C. Treat it as scalding water, not “nice and warm.”

Where is it?

It’s in Escaldes-Engordany on Pont de la Tosca avenue, and it’s described as the starting point of the parish’s Water Route.

Is it worth visiting if I’m going to Caldea?

Yes, as a quick add-on. It gives you context for where Escaldes’ thermal water comes from, then you can do your actual soaking in a managed facility. Plan it as a five-minute stop, not a long hangout.

Is it safe with kids?

Yes with close supervision. The main risk is scalding, so keep children at arm’s length, and don’t let them lean over the outlet or play near wet edges.

Do I need special gear?

No swim gear is needed, since you are not bathing. Wear normal walking clothes and footwear with decent grip, especially in winter when damp areas can freeze.