Imagine sinking into nature’s jacuzzi and feeling your stress melt away. Now, add in the sight of stunning landscapes, and the experience becomes even more therapeutic. There’s nothing quite like the relaxation you get from soaking in natural geothermal springs. So, why not set off on a journey to explore the world’s best hot springs? From natural streams nestled in lush wilderness to luxurious manmade pools, these places promise total relaxation.
### Best Hot Spring Destinations in the World – At a Glance:
– Blue Lagoon, Iceland
– Thermae Bath Spa, Bath, UK
– Szechenyi Baths, Budapest, Hungary
– Pamukkale, Turkey
– Sao Miguel, Azores
– Terme di Saturnia, Italy
– Benja Thermal Baths, Albania
– Kheerganga, India
– Banjar Hot Springs, Bali
– Hakone, Japan
– South Island, New Zealand
– Travertine, California, USA
– Spencer Hot Springs, Nevada, USA
– Idaho, USA
#### Blue Lagoon, Iceland
Immerse yourself in the mineral-rich waters of this renowned lagoon, surrounded by breathtaking mountains. The Blue Lagoon invites visitors for a therapeutic retreat. Its light blue waters and rising vapors are a visual treat, indicative of its high mineral content, particularly silica and salt. With temperatures between 37-39°C, it’s perfect year-round. This warm, mineral-rich water is celebrated for its health and beauty benefits, making the Blue Lagoon a must-visit hot spring.
#### Thermae Bath Spa, Bath, UK
Located in the historic town of Bath, the Thermae Bath Spa offers more than just hot springs. It boasts a rich history dating back to around 8,000 B.C. This spa features various pools, including the Roman-themed steam baths and a rooftop pool offering panoramic views of Bath’s historic buildings. The Roman Baths are also nearby, adding to the allure. These combined attractions make Thermae Bath Spa one of the top hot springs globally.
#### Szechenyi Baths, Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, and Szechenyi Baths stands out. Set in a magnificent Neo-Baroque plaza, it attracts visitors with its expansive pools, relaxing waters, and Instagrammable architecture. With 18 indoor and outdoor pools, spa facilities, and wellness treatments, Szechenyi Baths serves as a wellness center, making it one of the most popular hot springs in the world.
#### Pamukkale, Turkey
Pamukkale in Turkey looks like something from another planet. Known as ‘Cotton Castle,’ its white limestone walls form asymmetric, ladder-like travertines filled with mineral-rich hot waters that shine in a beautiful blue. The waters, rich in calcium, are beneficial for muscle and skin health. The area boasts 17 thermal pools with temperatures between 35°C and 100°C. When you soak in these waters, you can enjoy the stunning backdrop of Pamukkale’s meadows and a historic town.
#### Sao Miguel, Azores
The Azores, dotted with active volcanoes, are naturally rich in geothermal sources. Sao Miguel is particularly famous for its numerous hot springs warmed by volcanic vents and filled with mineral-rich waters. The lush green surroundings and small waterfalls enhance the experience. Furnas village, in particular, is home to some of the best hot springs in the world, such as the forest-veiled pools at Parque Terra Nostra.
#### Terme di Saturnia, Italy
Tuscany offers much more than wine, food, and culture; it also has spectacular geothermal springs. Terme di Saturnia, in southern Tuscany, captivates visitors with its bright-blue travertines. The water, rich in sulfur and calcium carbonate and hovering around 37.5°C, is beneficial for health and wellness. This hot spring is part of the luxurious Terme di Saturnia Resort, perfect for a relaxing Italian getaway.
#### Benja Thermal Baths, Albania
Benja Thermal Baths, nestled in Albania’s mountain ranges, is a true gem. The pools, with turquoise-blue waters at 30°C, offer stunning views of mountains and lush forests. Long cherished since the Ottoman Empire, these baths provide a natural beauty that makes them one of the best hot springs worldwide.
#### Kheerganga, India
Kheerganga, surrounded by towering mountains and lush valleys, is a hidden gem in India. Known for its excellent hiking trails and natural beauty, it also features hot springs with healing powers. Though you’ll need to hike for 3-4 hours to reach them, the therapeutic waters more than compensate, making it among the world’s top hot springs.
#### Banjar Hot Springs, Bali
Bali is renowned for wellness getaways, and its hot springs are no exception. Located in the Buleleng Regency, Banjar Hot Springs feature milky-aquamarine waters at 38°C. The pools are framed by manmade structures with hot water flowing from dragon statues on the walls. Rich in sulfur, these springs are often used in traditional healing practices, making them among Asia’s must-visit hot springs.
#### Hakone, Japan
Japanese onsens are legendary, and Hakone is home to some of the best. Known for its natural landscapes and theme parks, Hakone offers fantastic hot springs. Whether you prefer an open-air onsen or a hot pool in a ryokan, Hakone has it all. The prefecture also features numerous luxury hot spring resorts, making it a top destination for hot spring aficionados.
#### South Island, New Zealand
New Zealand’s South Island is rich in amazing hot springs, thanks to its geothermal activity. The island’s thermal pools, heated by geothermal energy, offer relaxing experiences with stunning views of mountains, valleys, and forests. Some of the best hot springs here include Hammer Springs, Tekapo Springs, and Onsen Queenstown.
#### Travertine, California, USA
California’s Travertine hot springs are an iconic spot. Located off Jack Sawyer Road, these quaint pools are popular among road trippers. Free and accessible, the small pools, surrounded by jagged rocks, are filled with soothing geothermal waters, making Travertine one of the best hot springs in the US and the world.
#### Spencer Hot Springs, Nevada, USA
Located in Nevada’s wilderness, Spencer Hot Springs offer a unique escape. These tub-like pools, made from metal cattle troughs, are filled with hot spring water. Ideal for mornings or evenings due to the desert heat, they provide year-round relief for sore muscles. However, finding them can be a bit challenging as they are not easily visible on maps.
#### Idaho, USA
Idaho is perhaps the best hot spring destination in the US, offering a variety of pristine landscapes. From natural streams to plush manmade spas, Idaho’s hot springs are ideal in any season. Some of the best include Miracle Hot Springs, Kirkham Hot Springs, and Boat Box Hot Springs.
Looking for a relaxing getaway that soothes both mind and body? Or planning a hot spring vacation? We’ve got you covered! Join group trips with JoinMyTrip, led by experienced trip leaders who will take you to fantastic geothermal baths worldwide, from Budapest to Japan!