Looking for a unique and rejuvenating vacation experience? Hot springs offer the perfect opportunity to unwind and recharge while surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Europe is home to numerous hot springs, each offering its own unique features and benefits. I will guide you through some of the Best Hot springs I know in Europe for a truly relaxing getaway.
As a real hot spring lover, I couldn’t wait to write this blog post. To give you some ideas of the best places to visit. And experience the real nourishing power of a Hot spring for Body, Soul & Mind. I visited places in The Balkan, South of France, Andorra and some more. There are also still a few on my list to visit. I will share them with you in this blog as well.
The Best Hot springs in Europe I Know
Pamukkale, Turkey
My first visit to a hot spring was in Pamukkale. Pamukkale, which means “cotton castle” in Turkish, is a natural wonder located in southwestern Turkey. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its terraces of white mineral-rich hot spring waters, formed over thousands of years. The stunning travertine pools are not only a sight to behold, but visitors can also bathe in the warm waters and reap the therapeutic benefits as they immerse themselves in this extraordinary setting. It almost looks like ice. But the mud in the water is also very rich in minerals to create a mask from on your body. Besides this view there is a hot spring on top of this beautiful white stairs of hotsprings. They call it the Cleopatra pool.
Izgreva, Banya, Bulgaria
Close by the village Bansko, where I used to come as a Digital Nomad, you will find the Hotspring Izgreva in a small village called Banya. Banya is around 5 kilometres from Bansko. In The Netherlands, I always loved to go to the spa centers. But this experience in nature got me fully. Especially in the evenings after a long day of work behind the laptop, this was a lovely place to relax and nourish myself.
The “Izgreva” complex is situated in the enchanting village of Banya, known as a prominent balneological center nestled in the picturesque Razlog valley. Surrounded by the majestic Pirin, Rila, and Rhodope mountains, this location offers a unique and tranquil experience. It’s conveniently located just 5 km from Bansko, renowned as one of the most modern ski resorts in the Balkan Peninsula, and only 6 km from Razlog. Furthermore, it’s a mere 160 km away from the capital city of Bulgaria, Sofia, and the Sofia Airport, making it easily accessible for visitors.
A visit to this center can be in your benefit for prevention of chronic inflammatory diseases of the musculoskeletal system, as well as for old injuries – bone fractures, sprains, bruises, rheumatism, sciatica, lumbago, discopathy, spinal inflammation, chronic gynecological diseases, chronic gynecological diseases inflammatory diseases of the nervous system, kidney stones, liver, stomach, urological and skin diseases – acne, psoriasis, gonorrhea, syphilis, airway inflammation, neurosis, and chronic poisoning with certain heavy metals (radioactive strontium, cerium, etc.).
Some hotels in Bansko I can recommend:
- Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena Bansko (visited this place many times when I was staying in an apartment close by while I was volunteering at Coworking Bansko)
- Four Seasons Apartment Bansko (friends of me stayed here)
- Grand Hotel Bansko – Fitness & Spa (I stayed here for 2 weeks, few years later)
Well. Many more places. And I know some people who rent out their apartments as well.
Some hidden spots in nature in Bulgaria
During my stay in Bulgaria there we’re some hidden spots, where I can actually not tell you anything about. Because the people who live in Bansko keep it secret. I was taken in a Van to a place and they told me we could meet bears. Whaa… It felt exciting.
If you want to visit one, I can recommend you to visit Coworking Bansko and I am sure some of the members or the owner Matthias will take you on a journey into the forest where the hidden hot springs can be found.
Ax-Les-Thermes, Southern France
Since I live in the South of France, I went on in my search for natural hot springs. I feel super connected to nature, so going on a trip to find some hot springs here in the surrounding was a must-do for me. Ax-Les-Thermes is a spa town in the South of France. And even a place where people go to ski. You will find hot springs in the town where you can sit and paddle with your feet in. But there are also a few thermal centers. Take some time to relax in Ax-les-Thermes to fully relax and connect back with your body. It is very good to visit places like this when you suffer from
At Ax-les-Thermes, the spa treatment is enriched by the healing powers of the surrounding mountains. The pure and fresh air, along with the restorative waters, provide relief for rheumatological and ENT-respiratory ailments, owing to their analgesic and decongestant properties.
Embark on a journey to Ax-les-Thermes and indulge in a curative experience, surrounded by an exceptional environment that allows you to disconnect and find tranquility.
If you are on your way to Ax-Les-Thermes you can combine your wellness trip with a Private Back to Nature Retreat at my place in the Lot Department. From Ax-Les-Thermes you can continue to Andorra!
Caldea Andorra
Andorra is a small country between France and Spain. We visited this country in 2022 for my Birthday. Besides visiting the hot springs it is also a great adventure with a lot of beautiful landscapes to drive through this small country.
There are many hot springs to be found in this country. But one of the well-known spa centers is Caldea.
There are many Spa Hotels in Andorra and depending on the location you are staying, you can find your best spa hotel. But Andorra isn’t that big, so it is easy to drive through the country and visit several places.
Blue Lagoon, Iceland
Located in the breathtaking landscape of Iceland, the Blue Lagoon is a world-renowned geothermal spa known for its milky-blue waters. High in minerals, this hot spring is believed to have healing properties for the skin. Imagine soaking in warm waters surrounded by cool air and snow-covered mountains. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Terme di Saturnia, Italy
Nestled in the picturesque Tuscan countryside, the Terme di Saturnia is known for its natural hot springs and thermal baths. The mineral-rich waters are said to have therapeutic benefits and have been enjoyed for centuries. Here, you can soak in the warm pools, surrounded by lush greenery and cascading waterfalls, creating a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere.
Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Hungary
For a touch of grandeur, head to Budapest’s Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of the largest medicinal bath complexes in Europe. Its elegant architecture, including impressive neo-baroque buildings, adds to the charm of the experience. With a variety of indoor and outdoor pools, temperatures ranging from warm to hot, and stunning surroundings, this hot spring delivers an unforgettable experience.
Therme Vals, Switzerland
Designed by renowned architect Peter Zumthor, Therme Vals in Switzerland is a masterpiece of thermal spa design. The baths are built with local quartzite stone, creating an ambiance of tranquility and harmony. With its minimalist aesthetics, natural light, and serene pools, this hot spring provides a unique space for relaxation and rejuvenation.
So this was the list of best hot springs of Europe I know. If I may add one, please get in touch with me!
Conclusion
Europe boasts an array of breathtaking hot springs that offer the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind amidst stunning natural surroundings. Whether you’re interested in mineral-rich waters, unique designs, or simply experiencing the healing benefits of these geothermal delights, there’s a hot spring in Europe waiting to provide you with a truly remarkable getaway. So take a break from your routine, immerse yourself in the soothing waters of one of the Best Hot springs in Europe. Embrace the tranquility that the Best Hot springs of Europe have to offer. Your mind, body, and soul will thank you for it.
