A 15th-century palace with a spa in Jaén

Relax Like the Romans

• Step into a spa inspired by ancient Roman thermal baths — a peaceful space where relaxation begins the moment you walk in. Inside, you'll find two pools, water jets, and massage hammocks. (Please note: the sauna is not included in the circuit.)

Spa Circuit Details

• Each session lasts 60 minutes.
• Spa hours depend on the day of the week:

If you're visiting on Monday, Wednesday, or Thursday:

• Afternoon: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

If you're visiting on Tuesday, Friday, or the weekend:

• Morning: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
• Afternoon: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Planning Your Visit

• If you’re staying just one night, you can choose to access the spa either on your arrival or departure day. Just make sure to contact the accommodation in advance to reserve your time slot.

Good News for Families

• Kids are welcome too! The spa is open to little ones, so everyone gets to enjoy the experience.

What to Bring

• Don’t forget your swimsuit, swim cap, and flip-flops. If you don’t have a towel, the hotel will happily provide one at no extra cost.

Hotel Palacio de Mengíbar: history, charm and relaxation in Jaén

Discover the pleasure of staying in an authentic 15th century palace, a hotel full of history that perfectly combines heritage, comfort and warm hospitality. Its arcaded courtyards, the remains of Roman baths and the Arab cistern create a unique atmosphere that transports you to another era.

Its 56 rooms offer a comfortable and modern retreat, featuring air conditioning, minibar, private bathroom, free WiFi and a décor that blends history and wellbeing for a truly special stay.

For moments of relaxation, the hotel features a spa located on ancient Roman baths, with heated pools, water circuit, sauna and massage treatments. Its restaurant, set in the former stables, serves carefully prepared Mediterranean cuisine, perfect for ending the day on a high note.

Located in the heart of Mengíbar, the hotel is ideal for exploring its charming streets and enjoying easy access to Jaén, Úbeda and Baeza.

If you are looking for a different kind of getaway, full of character and tranquillity, the Hotel Palacio de Mengíbar is ready to captivate all your senses.

Mengíbar: medieval towers, Iberian secrets and the birthplace of olive oil

Mengíbar is an ideal destination for lovers of archaeology, frontier history and, of course, authentic olive oil tourism.

What you can’t miss:

• The Torre del Homenaje: the town’s greatest landmark. This imposing 14th-century Mudejar tower, nearly 30 metres tall, was once part of the old Moorish castle. Today, it houses a visitor centre, and climbing to the top offers spectacular panoramic views over Jaén’s sea of olive trees.
• The mystery of Iliturgi: within the municipality of Mengíbar, on Maquiz Hill, lies the fascinating archaeological site of the Iberian-Roman city of Iliturgi. It played an important role in the Punic Wars and was linked to sieges led by Scipio Africanus himself.
• The Church of St Peter the Apostle: a 16th-century gem with a beautiful Renaissance façade attributed to the school of Andrés de Vandelvira. Inside, its altarpiece is well worth seeing.
• The legendary Battle of Mengíbar: before the famous Battle of Bailén, Mengíbar was the scene of one of the first Spanish victories over Napoleon’s army in 1808. Every year, the town brings this historic event back to life with period costumes and reenactments.

Our recommendation: Mengíbar forms part of Jaén’s Castles and Battles Route. If you’re passing through, visit one of the local olive oil mills and taste freshly pressed Picual extra virgin olive oil straight from the cooperative.

Jaén is one of Andalusia’s best-kept secrets, a destination where history, nature, and gastronomy come together in a truly authentic way. Known as the world capital of olive oil, this charming city offers a slower pace of travel, perfect for couples and families looking to explore inland Spain beyond the usual coastal hotspots.

Make sure you visit:

• The impressive Jaén Cathedral, a Renaissance masterpiece and one of the most important in Andalusia.
• Santa Catalina Castle, perched above the city with stunning panoramic views.
• The old town, full of narrow streets, hidden squares, and historic buildings.
• Arab Baths of Jaén, among the largest and best-preserved in Spain.
• The Provincial Museum, ideal for understanding the region’s rich Iberian and Roman heritage.

Family-friendly activities:

• Enjoy a scenic walk through Parque del Bulevar, perfect for relaxing with children.
• Visit an olive oil mill and learn how this “liquid gold” is produced, often with tastings included.
• Take a short drive to Sierra de Cazorla Natural Park for hiking, wildlife spotting, and fresh air.
• Explore local markets and try traditional sweets and products.
• Discover interactive exhibits in local museums adapted for younger visitors.

Make sure you try these local delicacies:

• Extra virgin olive oil, the star ingredient in almost every dish.
• Pipirrana, a refreshing tomato-based salad typical of Jaén.
• Andrajos, a hearty stew with game meat or fish.
• Flamenquín, a crispy rolled meat dish popular across the region.
• Traditional sweets like ochíos, often flavoured with paprika and olive oil.

Make the most of your visit and go to...

• Úbeda (30 min): a UNESCO World Heritage city filled with Renaissance architecture.
• Baeza (35 min): equally stunning, with a quieter and more intimate atmosphere.
• Sierra de Andújar Natural Park (1h): one of the best places in Spain to spot the Iberian lynx.
• Granada (1h 15 min): home to the iconic Alhambra and a must-see if you’re nearby.