Visiting a natural hot spring is a great way to relax and enjoy mother nature’s gifts, knowing you are doing something sustainable too. Hot springs are heated by geothermal heat, which is heat coming from the earth’s core. This is why you tend to find hot springs in volcanic areas, as water can come into contact with very hot rock heated by magma.
Bathing in a hot spring is cleansing for the body and mind, boasting restorative qualities such as recovery from stress, mood enhancement and replenishment of attention. What’s more, the water found in these natural hot springs contains minerals that are beneficial to our health. While immersed in the waters our bodies soak up these minerals, which increase circulation and oxygen flow.
Every hot spring is different in its mineral composition, depending on the location and the type of rock surrounding it. Below are my top 5 hot spring destinations, all in different corners of the world with their own unique characteristics.
1) Arenal hot springs - Costa Rica
Located in the La Fortuna area of Costa Rica, there are 12 Arenal hot springs to choose from. These warm waters are rich in mineral salts such as Calcium, Magnesium and Chloride which will leave your skin moisturised and refreshed. The largest and most luxurious experience is the well known Springs Resort Hot Springs. With 25 thermal water pools, a jacuzzi, restaurants and bars you won't be looking much further than this place.
2) Sky Lagoon - Iceland
The Sky Lagoon is a newly opened geothermal spa, located just a few minutes away from the capital Reykjavik. With an infinity pool overlooking the ocean views, you almost can't believe it's real. Swim up to the champagne- stocked bar and take part in the traditional spa ritual, you will not regret it.
3) Ojo Caliente - New Mexico
This secluded oasis, named sacred by Native Americans, is one of the oldest natural health resorts in the USA. Soak in the private outdoor pool and mud area by fire at night, and in the day take long hikes, or bike around before attending a relaxing yoga class. They even have puppies if you weren't already sold!
4) Termas de Puritama - Chile
Find these hot springs at the bottom of a canyon in the Atacama desert in Chile. With 8 large pools in ascending order of temperature, you can start at the bottom and work your way up to the warmest pool. Mini waterfalls and pampas plants gives this spa a very natural and lush ambience. With the presence of calcium, magnesium, sodium and boron, these waters bring a multitude of health benefits.
5) Forsthofgut Naturhotel- Austria
This family- owned resort hotel, voted the most beautiful spa in Europe, can be found in between the Leogang mountains in Austria. Choose to go during your winter ski holiday or as part of your summer exploration, you are guaranteed to feel relaxed and rejuvenated at this 5* spa hotel. Using the Alpine water, clear mountain air, strong earth and warming fire as part of the experience there is no doubt you will feel at one with nature again. Their new 42° Onsen (hot spring) pool opened in May 2021, and is rich with beneficial minerals.
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