Lake Negratin: A Hidden Gem in Southern Spain

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Lake Negratin is a true hidden gem in Andalusia, southern Spain. It’s a beautiful lake perfect for swimming, scenic hikes, and even relaxing in natural hot springs—all without the crowds!

I was lucky enough to have discovered this amazing lake while I was housesitting nearby for 5 weeks. It quickly became my favorite spot to escape the summer heat and enjoy some peace and quiet.

a turquoise lake surrounded by greenery, a tree is in the front of the picture

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Where Is Lake Negratin?

Lake Negratin is located in the province of Granada, in the southern region of Andalusia, Spain. It’s nestled between the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Sierra de Baza national park.

The lake is just over an hour’s drive northeast of Granada and about 35 minutes from Guadix, where, by the way, I highly recommend visiting the cave houses.

It’s not possible to visit Lake Negratin by public transport, you need your own car. Some parts of the road are narrow, and the route to the hot springs has many potholes, so be sure to drive slowly and carefully.

How to Visit the Lake

Swimming and Beach Areas

There are a few different spots where you can access the lake for swimming and sunbathing. My favorite was the Playa De Freila near the Camping Rural La Cabañuela. Simply drive past the camping site, there’s a parking lot right at the edge of the lake.

The water of the lake is very clear, you have stunning surroundings and the beach is usually very quiet. Perfect for a relaxing day at the lake.

In summer there’s a small kiosk at the beach selling drinks, ice cream, and a few snacks, but I wouldn’t count on it to be open. It’s best to bring enough drinking water with you.

A path leading into Lake Negratin in Spain with some mountains in the background — Playa De Freila

Water Sports

If you’re into water sports, you can rent kayaks and paddleboards from the Nautical club. Be sure to contact them beforehand about the opening times and availability. They have a phone number on their website which you can either call or send a WhatsApp message.

Next to the water sport equipment rental place is also a restaurant, and you can even rent some cabins there.

A blue lake with mountains reflecting in the lake

Hot Springs

One of the most unusual things to do in Andalusia is to soak in some natural hot springs and you can do so at Lake Negratin. At Manantial Baños de Zújar there’s a small natural pool with hot water you can visit for free, or you can pay to soak in the artificial pool with the same water.

I visited on a sunny day in June and the water of the natural pool was really warm, but I’m not sure how warm it would be on a cold winter day.

Be careful driving there as the road has many potholes, but it’s worth it. It’s a secluded, amazing experience with hardly any people. Note that the water smells a bit like sulfur, so you might wait to wash your bathing stuff until after the hot springs.

A small pond in the nature in the south of Spain — The free pool at the natural hot springs

A pool with a little bit of a roof over it, a terrace with chairs and tables and a lot of greenery in the surroundings — The free pool at the natural hot springs

Hiking Trails

I have to admit, I didn’t get the change for hiking near Lake Negratin as it was just too hot for that in summer, but there are beautiful hiking trails around the lake with many picnic spots along the way.

Viewpoints

You can get beautiful views of the lake from different viewpoints in the surrounding areas. One of my favorites was Mirador Del Negratin, a scenic lookout point high above the lake with many picnic tables. It’s a great spot to watch the sunset over the lake.

View of Lake Negratin from the mountains surrounding the lake — View from Mirador Del Negratin

Dam of Negratin

The lake is actually one of the largest freshwater reservoirs in Andalusia, formed by the construction of the Negratin Dam along the Guadiana Menor River.

You can visit the dam and even walk or drive across it. I makes for a great view and chances are that you have to drive across it anyway when you explore the lake.

Final Thoughts: Negratin Lake Spain

Lake Negratin may not be as famous as other lakes in Spain, but it’s worth a visit for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Whether you want to swim, hike, or relax in hot springs, this hidden gem has got you covered.

So next time you’re in Andalusia and you want to experience something unique, away from the tourist crowds, add Lake Negratin to your itinerary!

Lake Negratin: A Hidden Gem in Southern Spain

Where Is Lake Negratin?