For many centuries people have been aware of the natural healing powers of geothermal spas. The natural minerals in these hot, thermal waters are believed by many people to soothe away aches and pains, leaving both the body and the spirit feeling refreshed and relaxed.
There are a large number of geothermal spas to choose from scattered all around the globe, and many of the most popular are situated in picturesque locations. What follows is a brief overview of five of the best geothermal spa destinations:
1 – New Zealand
New Zealand is famous for its stunning natural features, which includes an abundance of geothermal spas. There are literally hundreds of thermal hot pools to choose from here, including mud pools and bubbling mineral hot springs. The nation’s most popular geothermal spas are located at Whakarewarewa, which is situated near Rotorua. Visitors will find a collection of 500 pools here to relax and unwind in, and the surrounding scenery is simply stunning.
2 – Iceland
Iceland is another excellent destination for geothermal spa lovers to check out. While the country boasts some 250 thermal areas, by far the most popular is the Blue Lagoon, which is enormous natural spa where the waters are particularly rich in minerals.
3 – Turkey
Turkey is one of the world’s richest geothermal zones and there are more than 1,300 thermal springs to discover here. Visitors to Turkey will be able to take their pick from isolated natural geothermal springs and elegant spas, where the geothermal waters have been harnessed and utilized in luxurious spas where visitors are treated to plenty of pampering while they experience the health benefits of the nation’s waters.
4 – Costa Rica
If you fancy spending time in Costa Rica, make sure you take the time to wallow in the waters of the volcanic formations that are situated in the nation’s Pacific Ring Fire Circle. This is the perfect destination for people who enjoy the adventure of splashing around in thermal hot springs and mud baths surrounded by the natural beauty of jungles and rainforests. Costa Rica is a real nature lover’s paradise, and one of the most popular thermal retreat destinations here is the Miravalles Volcano, where visitors can soak up the sights and sounds of the jungle while they feels their cares melt away.
5 – Japan
The Japanese really know how to turn relaxation into an art form, and the country’s natural geothermal waters have been used to create special thermal baths that come in all shapes and sizes. The Japanese word for a geothermal spa is an onsen, and there are certainly plenty of onsens to choose from in the Land of the Rising Sun.
Onsens are so popular in Japan that each town in the country is blessed with its own fair share, and visitors can choose between private or communal baths. Unwinding in an outdoor onsen at the end of the evening is a popular activity in Japan and allows people the chance to bond while relaxing and enjoying the natural scenery.
About the author: This guide to Geothermal Spa resorts was written in association with Geotherm International, leading international experts in geothermal energy.
Credits: Photo courtesy of David Huang.