Soothe your ailments in a naturally occurring hot spring
With much of Australia battling with one of its coldest winters on record, the thought of submerging ourselves into a hot spring sounds irresistible. Hot springs are the result of geothermal water emerging from the Earth’s crust at extremely high temperatures. Some of course are too hot to bathe in, but those that are safe for soaking offer both therapeutic and medicinal benefits thanks to their mineral-rich properties. And they’re damn photogenic too.
If you’re planning your next overseas adventure, be sure to add these destinations to your itinerary and experience the relaxation and myriad of benefits that come from a hot spring soak.
The Blue Lagoon, Iceland
With milky blue waters framed by black lava rock and steam billowing up and around like clouds, you’d be forgiven for thinking this was on another planet. However, just a 50-minute drive from the capital of Reykjavik will take you to the picturesque Blue Lagoon.
The temperatures of the Blue Lagoon sit at a toasty 38 degrees celsius thanks to a nearby geothermal power plant and promise more than just a pleasant plunge. Thanks to a unique combination of lava rock, minerals, and algae, the water has skin-soothing benefits proven to boost collagen production..
Las Grutas Tolantongo, Mexico
Hidden in the Sierra de Hidalgo mountains at 1,280 meters above sea level sits Las Grutas Tolantongo. Derived from the Aztec word tonaltonko, meaning “where it feels warm”, the turquoise waters at Las Grutas Tolantongo live up to their name and promise a warm plunge year round.
Tolantongo is a large site consisting of four distinct natural areas: the pools, the river, the tunnel, and the cave. There is also a zip line, suspension bridge, swimming pools, hotels and campsites plus a handful of restaurants, meaning there is plenty to explore.
Banjar Hot Springs, Indonesia
Bali is an island dotted with volcanoes. Because of this, there are some incredible hot springs to discover. Of these is the Banjar Hot Springs, or Air Panas Banjar as the locals call it, in a northern pocket of the tropical island of Bali.
Set in a lush tropical garden, the Banjar Hot Springs consists of three pools with an average temperature of 38 degrees Celsius, with a sulfur content of 26 percent. While the sulfur does emit a slight ‘eggy’ odor, it’s said to be perfect for healing all of your ailments. The two main pools are one to two meters deep and make the perfect place for swimming and bathing, while the third pool is small with three spouts offering a natural massage.
Terme di Saturnia, Italy
Terme di Saturnia is located at the foot of the medieval town of Saturnia in Tuscany and is surrounded by a beautiful park. The warm and sulfur-rich waters of Saturnia were first popular with the Etruscans and later the Romans who believed them to be a gift from the gods.
Now, a luxury spa and resort has been built on-site with a swimming pool set in a volcanic crater. There are, however, two outdoor waterfalls off-site that can be accessed for free if you’d prefer.
Peninsula Hot Springs, Australia
Peninsula Hot Springs is a natural geothermal mineral spring and day spa located less than 90 minutes from Melbourne. From the mineral-rich geothermal water which fills the pools to the clean, filtered drinking waters available throughout the hot springs, this mineral-rich water detoxifies the body and rejuvenates the spirit.
Enjoy your soak while gazing out at the rolling hills and pristine landscape of the Mornington Peninsula for the ultimate relaxation.
Arenal Hot Springs, Costa Rica
Thanks to the region’s geothermal activity, there are a number of natural hot springs around the Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica. With 12 different thermal pools to choose from, there’s something for to suit whatever getaway you’re looking for, from romance to family-friendly.
The Springs Resort Hot Springs is a luxury thermal pool and hotel offering incredible views of the Arenal Volcano.
Warm Mineral Springs, USA
Down a dirt road in North Port, Florida, lies one of the Sunshine State’s most historical, relaxing, and rejuvenating experiences – Warm Mineral Springs.
There are no canoes, glass-bottom boats, or extreme water sports at this spring. It’s simply a peaceful location to recharge and connect with nature.
Florida is home to more than 1,000 springs, but Warm Mineral Springs is the sole naturally occurring warm mineral spring in the state.
This article originally appeared on Fancy and do not necessarily represent the views of australiaexploring.com
