Discover the Healing Power of Lo Pagan Mud Baths
Nestled on the northern shore of the Mar Menor in Spain’s Murcia region lies one of the best-kept wellness secrets in Europe — the Lo Pagan Mud Baths, also known as Las Charcas de las Salinas or Baños de Lodo. Located just beyond the charming town of San Pedro del Pinatar, this unique destination combines natural beauty, health benefits, and an unforgettable experience — all for FREE.
What Makes Lo Pagan Mud Baths So Special?
Set within the Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar Regional Park, a protected wetland famous for its salt flats and flamingos, these therapeutic mud baths are found in shallow lagoons enriched with high levels of salt and minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium. These elements are renowned for their healing properties, particularly for skin conditions, joint pain, and stress relief.
A narrow strip of land separates the mud baths from the rest of the Mar Menor, and a series of wooden jetties make accessing the baths easy and safe.
Lo Pagan Mud Baths
Benefits of the Mud Baths
Visitors from all over the world come to Lo Pagan to indulge in the natural exfoliating and detoxifying effects of the mineral-rich mud. The benefits include:
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Skin rejuvenation and reduction of acne, eczema, and psoriasis symptoms
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Joint and muscle pain relief, especially for conditions like arthritis
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Natural stress relief thanks to the soothing warmth of the mud
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Anti-aging effects — as the mud dries, it tightens the skin, acting like a natural facelift
Pro Tip: Be aware that the mud has a sulfuric smell (like rotten eggs), but most visitors quickly get used to it.
How to Use the Mud Baths
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Walk the Promenade and choose a jetty to enter the lagoon. You may need to wade in a little before you reach the mud zone.
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Bring a plastic bucket or container to scoop up the mud and a sponge to help remove it later.
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Apply a small patch first to check for skin sensitivity.
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Cover your body in mud and let it dry for 20–30 minutes while basking in the sun or walking along the mud paths.
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Rinse off thoroughly in the lagoon — you’ll need to scrub to get the mud off.
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Finish with a dip in the Mar Menor on the opposite side for a refreshing swim.
📸 Mud Tip: Designate one mud-free person in your group to snap those unforgettable photos!
Warning: Wear old swimwear — the mud can stain your clothes.
The Local Legend
Legend has it that walking the full 3-kilometre route to the Molino de la Calcetera Lighthouse after applying the mud boosts its healing powers. While many enjoy lounging and soaking up the views instead, the walk is a beautiful way to experience the full effect of nature’s spa.
When to Visit Lo Pagan Mud Baths
Lo Pagan enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it accessible year-round. However, the best months to visit are:
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Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–October) — enjoy perfect weather without the peak summer crowds.
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Winter is still pleasant, as the mud retains warmth even when the surface water cools slightly.
More to Explore in San Pedro del Pinatar
Beyond the mud baths, the Salinas Regional Park offers scenic walking and cycling trails, information centers, and birdwatching, especially during migration seasons when flamingos and other species flock to the lagoons.
How to Get to Lo Pagan Mud Baths from Benidorm
Getting there takes a little effort, but it's worth it!
🚗 By Car
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Distance: 133 km (Approx. 1.5 hours)
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Route: Via AP-7 (Exit for San Pedro del Pinatar) or N-332
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Parking: Free but fills up early in summer
🚌 By Bus
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Benidorm to Murcia: 1 hr 45 mins (€12–€28)
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Murcia to Lo Pagan: 1 hr 20 mins (€4–€13)
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Then a 16-minute walk to the baths
OR
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Benidorm to Alicante: 45 mins (€7–€11)
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Alicante to Pilar de la Horadada: 2 hrs 35 mins (€5–€7)
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Pilar to Lo Pagan: 10 mins (€1)
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Short walk from there
🚆 Tram + Train + Bus
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Tram: Benidorm to Alicante (Luceros) – 1 hr 16 mins (€3–€6)
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Train: Alicante to Balsicas-San Javier (€11–€16)
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Bus: Balsicas to Lo Pagan – 29 mins (€1–€3)
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Walk 16 mins to the baths
Final Tips Before You Go
✅ Entry is FREE
✅ Parking available, especially if you arrive early
✅ Bring water, snacks, and sun protection
✅ Be prepared to get messy — that’s part of the fun!
About the Mar Menor
The Mar Menor is Europe’s largest saltwater lagoon, covering 170 km². Its shallow, warm, highly saline waters create an ideal environment for natural wellness, swimming, and water sports. The surrounding coastline features beautiful beaches and is lined with resorts, hotels, and restaurants.
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Have You Been to Lo Pagan Mud Baths?
We’d love to hear from you! 🌿💬
Have you tried the Lo Pagan Mud Baths? Did you feel the difference in your skin or joints?
Whether you walked to the lighthouse covered in mud, spotted flamingos, or simply soaked in the sun —
share your experience in the comments section below!
Your tips and stories might help other travelers plan their perfect wellness getaway. 👇
