Top 5 Destinations For Thermal Baths And Spas In Europe

The healing properties of water have been known since ancient times. The first spa towns were created around thermal springs during Roman and Byzantine times. Today, most successful thermal tourist centers are located in areas with remarkable natural landscapes, such as the Austrian and Swiss Alps. In them, extensive health and leisure activities are offered in combination with modern and comfortable accommodations and high-quality nutrition. These areas also have a residential and cultural environment. So in this article, we will travel and relax in Europe’s best destinations with spas.

1. Spa Belgium, Belgium

   Spa Belgium is a traditional European spa town located in a valley in the Ardennes mountains southeast of Liege and southwest of Aachen. The Spa is one of Belgium’s most popular tourist destinations, known for its natural thermal springs and the production of Mineral Water. The springs have become popular since the 16th century. The Spa reached its zenith in the 18th century when the European royal family visited it. It was the general headquarters of the German army in 1918. It was the site of the Allied Supreme Council conference in 1920. Now the health center of the Belgian state is also a winter sports center and a tourist resort with entertainment facilities, including horse and racing cars.

2. Aix-les-Bains Riviera of the Alps, France

   Aix-les-Bains is in the Department of Savoy in the southeastern French region of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. Nowadays, it is known for its hydrotherapy. Indeed it is the 4th thermal city in France that welcomes patients for medical treatments. But Aix-les-Bains also has its lake, Lake Bourget, the Alps, and the Jura mountains around it providing an incredible choice of activities. You can go hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, canyoning, kite surfing, fishing, canoeing, and boat rental. You can, of course, enjoy moments of relaxation on the beach and walks along the beach. Do not forget to walk along the pedestrian street of the city center to discover shops and many restaurants. You will also be able to visit the palaces, the Hippodrome, the casino, the thermal baths, and the romantic theater of the city. Here health professionals practice ancestral techniques, improved with modern techniques that produce more intense therapeutic effects for the organism. Aix-les-Bains became a famous resort town where all the celebrities go.

3. Thermae Bath Spa, Bath, England

   Thermae Bath Spa is an award-winning Natural Spa. They are the only naturally warm, mineral-rich waters in Britain. So, imagine taking a bath as the Celts and Romans did 2,000 years ago. Guests can relax inside the bath and at the rooftop outdoor pool with stunning views of the city of Bath. In addition, you can refresh your senses in the aroma steam rooms and choose from over 40 spa treatments and packages. Thermae Bath Spa is the best place to go for a spa break while visiting Bath. The city of Bath has been a World Heritage site since 1987 due to the city’s approximately 500 buildings that are considered of historical and architectural significance. Don’t miss out on some of its great attractions, such as the Royal Crescent, Bath Abbey, Cross Bath, Holburne Museum, Herschel Museum of Astronomy, and Jane Austen Centre.

4. The Blue Lagoon, Iceland

   In Iceland, the Blue Lagoon is undoubtedly an experience not to be missed. It is located near Keflavík International Airport, a short drive from Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik. The Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s top tourist attraction, becoming more popular in recent years. This man-made geothermal pool attracts people from all over the world who want to enjoy the warm, milky blue water. The Lagoon is open all year and maintains a temperature of 39°C. The Spa was originally created for people with psoriasis or other skin diseases, as hot water proved extremely beneficial in treating skin problems. Iceland is known for its freezing sub-zero temperatures. But amid all the snow, glaciers, and ice caves, you can relax in the healing waters of the Blue Lagoon.

5. Budapest, Hungary

   Budapest is a city of spas because it is located in a place with 120 hot springs throughout the city. Enjoying the water has been a part of everyday life since the colonists first moved in. Most are also open late on weekends for an evening swim. There are dozens of different options to choose from. Try the sparkling Gellert baths at Szechenyi Spa, Rudas Spa, or Lukacs baths. Today you can enjoy pampering treatments of all kinds in the most popular spas like the above, so take advantage of that opportunity.