25 Years of Indoor Comfort: Looking Back at the 1996 Opening of Our Heated Pool
If you love swimming whatever the weather, the 1996 opening of our heated pool marked a turning point for easy, year‑round relaxation at Camping Les Medes. Since that first festive dip at Christmas 1996, our indoor heated pool has given guests a warm, unhurried space to unwind from autumn through spring—perfect after coastal walks, bike rides, or a day exploring L’Estartit and the Medes Islands.
In this retrospective, we revisit how the pool came to life, what makes it so comfortable today, and how to plan the perfect swim during your stay.
A milestone in 1996: how the indoor heated pool came to be
The story begins with a clear purpose: extend the joy of swimming beyond summer. Construction started in September 1996, and the pool was inaugurated at Christmas the same year. This investment reflected a broader philosophy of continuous improvement and guest comfort that still guides us today.
Over the decades since the 1996 opening of our heated pool, we’ve complemented the experience with thoughtful details—nearby relaxation spaces, practical amenities, and seasonal programming—so you enjoy consistent comfort from one season to the next.
What makes the indoor heated pool so comfortable today
Consistent water temperature, convenient facilities, and adjacent wellness services are what guests appreciate most.
Indoor Heated Pool: At a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Inauguration | Christmas 1996 |
| Operating period | 15 September – 15 June |
| Water temperature (avg.) | 28 °C |
| Dimensions | 11.5 × 4 m |
| Access | Free for campsite guests |
| Changing room | Locker room with lockers |
| Adjacent spaces | Solarium area; sauna and professional massages (additional fee) |
| Swim cap | Compulsory in the indoor pool |
A few highlights worth calling out:
- Comfortable, stable warmth: The pool is kept at an average of 28 °C, so you can count on a soothing swim in cooler months.
- Right‑sized for relaxed laps: At 11.5 × 4 meters, the pool balances ease of movement with a calm, intimate feel.
- Practical convenience: A changing room with lockers lets you store personal items securely while you swim.
- Wellness next door: Slip from the water to a solarium for quiet downtime or book the on‑site sauna and professional massages for an added dose of relaxation (services available for an additional fee).
- Simple swim etiquette: In line with regional rules, swim caps are compulsory in the indoor pool—pack one so you’re ready to go.
Your year‑round aquatic hub
Our indoor heated pool is open from 15 September to 15 June, making it your off‑season sanctuary. When the weather warms, you can switch to our two outdoor pools (one for adults and one for children), typically open from 1 May to 15 September weather permitting. The large outdoor pool includes a crane to assist guests with reduced mobility.
Together, these facilities ensure there’s always a refreshing way to cool off—or warm up—whenever you visit.
Practical questions, answered
When was the indoor heated pool inaugurated?
Christmas 1996.
When is the indoor heated pool open?
From 15 September to 15 June.
What are the pool’s temperature and size?
It averages 28 °C and measures 11.5 × 4 meters.
Is the indoor pool free for campsite guests?
Yes. Access is free during its operating period.
Do I need a swim cap?
Yes. Wearing a swim cap is compulsory in the indoor pool.
Are there lockers?
Yes. The changing room is fitted with lockers for safe storage.
Are there wellness services nearby?
Yes. A solarium is adjacent to the pool, and there’s an on‑site sauna plus professional massage treatments for an additional fee.
Beyond the pool: make the most of your stay
A great swim is even better when the rest of your day flows smoothly. Here are nearby services and activities to round out your itinerary.
Eat, sip, relax
- Snack bar‑pizzeria (all year): Large terrace, cosy indoor seating, a small library corner, and billiards.
- Restaurant (01/04–31/10): Choose from set menus or à‑la‑carte. Take‑away meals are available on request.
- Shop (all year): Daily press, freshly baked bread, and essentials for your stay.
Family time and activities
- Children’s entertainment: For ages 4+, a mix of water and land activities mainly in the Bona Festa room and Vessana Mini‑club; occasional evening activities for adults.
- High‑season program (July & August): Scheduled entertainment, activities, and excursions.
- Aquàtica diving centre (on site): Diving trips, training courses and introductory dives, plus guided snorkelling around the Medes Islands and Montgrí Natural Park. On‑site facilities include a spacious preparation area for rinsing and storing gear, an SSI‑equipped classroom, and a dedicated pool for first in‑water practice.
Outdoors, your way
- Bicycle hire on site: 20 bikes, including two electric models (first‑come, first‑served; not reservable in advance). Secure indoor bicycle storage is available.
- Close to the sea: The beach is about 800 m away; L’Estartit is roughly 2 km from the campsite. A public boat‑launch point is located nearby.
- Green rest area: Landscaped space with benches, open 08:00–23:00 for quiet downtime between activities.
Practical comforts and safety
- Wi‑Fi: Available for an extra cost (one device at a time; free in high season for bungalows). Coverage is partial site.
- Pitch services: Pitches (70–80 m²) accept up to 6 people and include 6 or 10 A electricity, water inlet, and drainage (drainage excepted on 10 even‑numbered plots in Street K). Electrical connection uses CEE three‑phase sockets; water uses a Gardena ½" or ¾" connector (or equivalent).
- Pets: Welcome on camping plots until 5 July and after 22 August; not allowed in bungalows. In July and August, we work with Canisapiens in Ventalló for dedicated dog leisure and care.
- Guest services: Safe‑deposit for valuables, self‑service car‑wash, indoor bicycle storage, and an on‑site AED (defibrillator).
- Barbecues: Only portable barbecues, and only on non‑windy days.
Sustainability then and now
Our indoor heated pool is part of a broader, long‑term commitment to quality and environmental stewardship. We have operated an ISO 14001 environmental‑management system since 1999 and participate in the European Charter of Sustainable Tourism.
As part of our transition to renewable energy, in January 2023 we installed 270 photovoltaic panels expected to generate about 130,000 kWh per year—roughly 25–30% of our electricity demand. Our goals are to reach 50% solar coverage by 2030 and 100% by 2050. These steps help us reduce our footprint while continuing to offer comfortable, well‑maintained facilities.
Tips for a perfect swim
Use these quick, practical pointers to maximise your time in and around the pool:
- Check the dates: Plan your indoor swims between 15 September and 15 June; switch to the outdoor pools from 1 May to 15 September, weather permitting.
- Pack a swim cap: It’s mandatory in the indoor pool.
- Use the lockers: Keep your essentials safe in the changing‑room lockers.
- Make it a wellness moment: Pair your swim with the sauna or a professional massage (additional fee) and unwind in the adjacent solarium.
- Time your meals: Refuel at the snack bar‑pizzeria (open all year) or plan a sit‑down meal at the restaurant (01/04–31/10). Take‑away is available.
- Plan for kids’ activities: In July and August, check the daily program at the Bona Festa room and Vessana Mini‑club.
- Explore the coast: Balance pool time with a short stroll to the beach (800 m) or a visit to L’Estartit (2 km).
- Think active: Rent a bike on site, store it safely indoors when you’re done, or ask reception about diving and snorkelling with Aquàtica.
Conclusion: the legacy of the 1996 opening of our heated pool
More than a facility, our indoor heated pool is a promise of comfort, consistency, and care—from its Christmas 1996 inauguration to every relaxing swim you enjoy today. Whether you’re seeking a quiet morning stretch, a family splash, or a post‑hike unwind, the pool—and the wellness spaces around it—add a warm signature to every stay at Camping Les Medes.
Ready to plan your break? We’re open all year with bungalows and pitches to suit different travel styles. For reservations and questions, contact us at +34 972 75 18 05 or info@campinglesmedes.com. You’ll find us at Paratge Camp de l’Arbre, Apartat de correus 140, 17258 L’Estartit (Girona – Spain).
Looking for more? Explore our restaurant and snack bar, children’s entertainment, Aquàtica diving experiences, and our sustainability roadmap—all great companions to your next swim.