Some of my greatest travel experiences have included some time at a thermal spa. These have been anything from small natural thermal pools to large man-made thermal baths–heck, even just a hot tub in the middle of a trip is a nice escape! For relaxing and rejuvenating, a hot spring of some sort or another just can’t be beat. Pair it with a massage, and put it in a beautiful setting, and it can be darn near heavenly.
Exploring the world of wellness, there are several exceptional spas around the globe renowned for their thermal offerings that I’ve pulled together here for you to consider as you plan your next adventure. These havens provide not just relaxation and rejuvenation but also a touch of adventure, cultural immersion, and natural healing. Whether nestled in serene landscapes, within architectural marvels or perched atop ancient thermal springs, each spa offers a unique experience—and will likely become an unforgettable part of your wellness journey:
- Blue Lagoon, Iceland
Nestled in a lava field near Grindavík, the Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most famous geothermal spas. The milky-blue water is rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, known to nourish the skin. Bathing in this surreal landscape, with steam rising around you and the Northern Lights dancing overhead during the winter months, is an experience like no other.
- Therme Vals, Switzerland
Designed by the renowned architect Peter Zumthor, Therme Vals is a minimalist masterpiece built over the only thermal springs in the Graubünden Canton. This spa combines the therapeutic properties of the thermal waters with stunning architecture to create a tranquil and aesthetically pleasing wellness retreat. Built from layers of locally quarried Valser quartzite, the spa’s structure seems to emerge from the earth itself, harmonizing with the landscape in an almost mystical manner.
Visitors can meander through a labyrinth of pools, each offering a different temperature and sensory experience. From the serene outdoor pool that offers breathtaking views of the Alpine scenery to the sound bath room where you can immerse in acoustic relaxation, every corner of Therme Vals promises a unique journey of rejuvenation. Whether you’re exploring the steam baths, relaxing in the flower-infused pools, or enjoying a massage that employs local herbs and minerals, Therme Vals offers a holistic approach to wellness that is deeply rooted in the Alpine culture and landscape.
- Bath Thermae Spa, England
In the historic city of Bath, the Thermae Bath Spa taps into the ancient Roman Baths’ thermal springs. This modern facility blends historical elements with contemporary design, offering a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills. The naturally warm, mineral-rich waters make for a perfect retreat in the heart of Somerset.
- Terme di Saturnia, Italy
Located in Tuscany, Terme di Saturnia is a spa resort built around an ancient crater that pours out sulfurous thermal water, maintaining a constant temperature of 37.5°C. According to legend, the pools were formed by lightning bolts during a mythological battle between Jupiter and Saturn. The springs stretch from Mount Amiata to the Maremma grossetana area with water that is rich in sulfur, carbon, sulfate, bicarbonate-alkaline, earth, hydrogen sulfide gas, and carbon dioxide. The therapeutic properties of the water, along with the idyllic Tuscan landscape, make for a truly healing and restorative experience. The resort also offers a range of wellness treatments, each harnessing the power of the thermal waters.
- Széchenyi Thermal Bath & Gellert Baths; both in Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, known as the “City of Spas”, is home to over 100 thermal springs, and several have thermal baths perched above them. One of the largest spa complexes in Europe, Széchenyi Thermal Bath is famous for its grandiose architecture and extensive thermal offerings. The spa’s water is supplied by two thermal springs and is said to aid in various health issues. With outdoor and indoor pools, saunas, and steam rooms, it’s a place where one can experience the traditional Hungarian bath culture. On Saturday nights this space converts into a wild party with music and dancing.
While Széchenyi is a popular spot for Instagram posts, I personally believe that Gellert baths, located across the river, is more beautiful and a bit calmer. It is housed in the remains of an Art Nouveau palace which is an architectural masterpiece. Its stained glass roofs allow sunlight to pour down onto the pools below–dancing off the colorful tiles. The grand columns and sweeping bathrooms are detailed with turquoise Zsolnay mosaics, and there are ornately-carved sculptures and ceramics dotted everywhere. It is truly a divine experience. Just keep in mind that the palace is on multiple floors, so you will need to climb a few stairs along the way. 
Both of these thermal facilities offer baths at various temperatures ranging from 30 to 40 degrees Celsius (86 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit) in different sized pools, some inside and some outdoors (as well as traditional swimming pools). Both also have spa treatments, refreshments and private lockers. They also both offer cold plunges if that’s more your “temperature.”
- Takaragawa Onsen, Japan
About an hour outside Tokyo, in the heart of Gunma Prefecture, Takaragawa Onsen is a traditional Japanese hot spring resort known for its stunning riverside hot springs (outdoor onsens) nestled among the rocks, the property’s temple-style buildings, (some of which date back to 1923), and scenic mountain-view and riverside surroundings. Everyone is equalized here–with each guest being provided a kimono-like robe (Yukata) and slippers for the duration of your stay. The springs are open to guests 24/7 so you can enjoy the waters anytime that suits you.
Surrounded by nature, the thermal waters offer a tranquil retreat, perfect for relaxation and meditation. The experience is complemented by traditional Japanese hospitality, tatami guest rooms, and spectacular cuisine.
- Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa, New Mexico, USA
Just north of Santa Fe, you’ll find Ojo’s secluded oasis. Deemed sacred by Native Americans of Northern New Mexico, Ojo’s legendary waters have been soothing body, mind and spirit naturally for thousands of years.
Ojo is one of the oldest natural health resorts in the US and the only hot springs in the world with four different sulfur-free, healing mineral waters: lithium, iron, soda, and arsenic, each with its own healing properties. The resort features various pools, mud baths, and a range of spa treatments set against the stunning backdrop of the New Mexico landscape. If you’d like to add a bit of activity, there are over 1100 acres of hiking and biking trails plus daily yoga classes.
Each of these spas provides a sanctuary for those seeking to unwind, detoxify, and rejuvenate in the embrace of nature’s thermal wonders. Whether you’re drawn to the icy vistas of Iceland, the historic baths of England, beautiful architecture of Budapest, or the traditional onsens of Japan, there’s a thermal spa experience waiting to transform your wellness journey.