The Mysterious Springs of Rennes-les-Bains

The Mysterious Springs of Rennes-les-Bains

Rennes-les-Bains is very close to Rennes-le-Château, and the two villages are connected by mysterious ties. Some come to the area in search of treasures—the treasure of the Cathars, the Templar treasure, or the treasure of the Visigoths. Others seek less tangible treasures, like the tomb of Christ, the tomb of Mary Magdalene, or even the Holy Grail... But one can also visit Rennes-les-Bains for its true treasure, and that is its healing waters: the Sals River, whose salinity is twice that of the Mediterranean, and the nine springs within the village—four cold and five hot, with some reaching temperatures as high as 47 degrees Celsius. The Fontaine des Amours, a particularly charming cold spring, stands out among them. In the gentle baths, you can enjoy water at 37 degrees, while the hot baths reach up to 47 degrees. All these springs are freely accessible; you simply need to find the right spot in the village and its surroundings to enjoy them.

The Romans were already aware of the healing virtues of Rennes’ waters, which is why they built thermal baths, the remains of which stand majestically along the only road leading into the village. Further along, more modern thermal facilities offer a full range of wellness services—massages, mud wraps, and hydrotherapy. Legend has it that Rennes-les-Bains takes its name from the "Queen’s Baths," a hot spring that supposedly healed Queen Blanche of Bourbon in the 14th century after she contracted leprosy.

Come and discover it all for yourself!