I recently visited two unique salt flat spas in the Algarve: Spa Salino in Castro Marim and Mar Morto at Salinas do Grelha in Olhão. Here’s a breakdown of my experience at each spa and what you can expect.
What to Expect:
Both places offer similar experiences but with some key differences. I’ll go over my experience at each spa separately.
Spa Salino – Castro Marim
When you arrive at Spa Salino, you’ll get a brief explanation of the process. First, you’re provided with a salt scrub to exfoliate your body, and you’re also given a container of mud. You can apply some mud to your face right away, but save the rest for later. Once scrubbed, you’ll step into one of the two salt pools, equipped with a neck pillow to help you float comfortably for at least 30 minutes. The floating is incredibly relaxing!
After floating, you can apply the mud to your body and relax on a lounge chair while it dries. Once dry, rinse off in the saltwater showers, and you’re done! Afterward, you can grab a snack or drink at the snack bar while enjoying the stunning views. Spa Salino also provides lockers, changing rooms, and bathrooms. The cost is €16 per person for floating and the mud. There’s also a treatment room for massages and yoga classes available.
Mar Morto – Salinas do Grelha, Olhão
Mar Morto (translates to Dead Sea,) offers a similar experience. Upon arrival, we were given instructions, but unlike Spa Salino, there was no salt scrub. We headed straight to the salt pool to float. There’s only one pool here, but it’s much larger. After floating, we applied the mud and rented lounge chairs for €5 to relax while it dried. Once dry, we were advised to float again to let the warm water loosen the mud, making it easier to rinse off in the fresh water showers.
At Mar Morto, there are cubby boxes for your belongings, and they recommend leaving valuables in your car. The staff can hold your keys and phone at the counter. Changing rooms and bathrooms are also available. The float costs €8, and the mud, which is enough for two people, is €3. A yoga class is also offered every Friday at 7 p.m.
A Brief History of the Algarve’s Salt Flats
The salt flats (salinas) of the Algarve have been central to the region’s history for over a thousand years. Found near towns like Tavira, Olhão, and Castro Marim, these salt flats have produced high-quality sea salt since Roman times. The Algarve’s sunny climate and flat coastal plains create the perfect conditions for salt production.
Historically, salt was a valuable commodity, essential for preserving fish and other foods before refrigeration. During the Middle Ages, salt production was one of the Algarve’s main economic activities and was traded across the Mediterranean. The Flor de Sal (flower of salt) harvested here is particularly prized for its purity and delicate texture.
Though salt production declined with industrialization in the 20th century, there has been a resurgence in traditional hand-harvesting methods due to increased demand for artisanal, high-quality salt. Today, the Algarve’s salt flats are not only economically important but are also home to diverse wildlife, making them a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
You can buy salt at both of the spas. Both regular and artisinal.
Benefits of Salt Baths and Mud Treatments
The salt baths at both spas are rich in natural salts and minerals, which cause you to float effortlessly in the warm water, offering deep relaxation. Salt baths using sea salts like those from the Algarve offer several health benefits, including:
- Skin Health: Salt baths exfoliate dead skin and cleanse pores, leaving your skin smoother and healthier. The minerals (magnesium, calcium, potassium) help with skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne.
- Muscle Relaxation: Magnesium in the salt soothes sore muscles and cramps, making these baths ideal for athletes.
- Detoxification: Salt draws out toxins from the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting a deep cleanse.
- Improved Circulation: Soaking in salt water stimulates circulation, benefiting cardiovascular health and reducing swelling.
- Stress Relief: The minerals absorbed through the skin reduce stress and anxiety, improving sleep quality.
- Joint Pain Relief: The anti-inflammatory properties of sea salt minerals can relieve joint pain and stiffness.
- Hydration: Salt helps the skin retain moisture, making salt baths a great option for maintaining hydration, especially in dry climates.
The mud, sourced directly from the salt flats, is also mineral-rich. After letting it dry on your skin, you’ll be amazed at how soft and smooth your skin feels post-rinse!
Which Spa Did I Prefer?
Honestly, both Spa Salino and Mar Moto were fantastic. While I enjoyed the salt scrub at Spa Salino, Mar Moto was more affordable. No matter which one you visit, I’m sure you’ll have a relaxing, enjoyable experience at these Algarve salt flat spas.
Thank you for reading! Be sure to follow my Instagram @vegas.to.portugal for more content on these spas and my daily adventures as an expat in Portugal 💙.
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