Hot springs are some of the most amazing natural wonders in the world. They are formed when hot water emerges through cracks in the earth’s surface, producing extremely high temperatures at the centre of the spring.
Often surrounded by beautiful landscapes, travelers are encouraged to bathe in the warm, mineral-rich waters believed to have restorative powers. In other cases, the springs are so hot that they create some of earths greatest phenomena.
Here, we teamed up with the experts at Property Turkey who have narrowed it down to the top 7 most beautiful hot springs in the world so you can plan your next peaceful, luxury getaway.
1) Pamukkale, Turkey
Based in Denizili Province, Pamukkale is one of the most stunning sights in Turkey. Truly magical in effect, this hot spring is formed of terraced pools created by pure white travertine. Pamukkale, translated to ‘cotton castle’, refers to the shimmering cotton-like limestone that towers over the hot calcium– filled mineral pools. This natural wonder was so admired by the Ancient Greeks and Romans that they constructed the city of Hierapolis at the top of the mountain. Alongside allowing tourists to bathe in designated areas, there are plenty of well-preserved Roman ruins to take a look at during your visit.
2) The Blue Lagoon, Iceland
The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal seawater pool complex set amongst a striking black volcanic landscape. Whilst this luxury spa is not a natural wonder of the world, as it was formed via accidental drilling next to a geothermal power plant, it has created incredible 40c waters for travelers worldwide to soak in. Bathe in the same thermal waters as Beyoncé with a drink in hand, a free silica-rich face mask and beautiful scenery.
3) Chinoike Jigoku, Japan (Bloody Hell Pond)
This hot spring is spectacular due to its uniqueness and striking differences to the typical spring. The main noticeable difference is its dark orange and red colour which gave Chinoike Jigoku its alternative nickname- The Bloody Hell Pond. Formed of nine steaming springs (each approximately 78c each), they are not for swimming in but rather for guests to experience iron oxide rich red waters. Instead, travelers can be stunned by the sheer amount of steam drifting in the air and the bubbling boiling red water.
4) The Grand Prismatic Spring, USA
Not only is this the third largest hot spring in the world after Frying Pan Lake in New Zealand and Boiling Lake in Dominica, but it is also one of the most Instagrammable locations for its unique kaleidoscope of natural colour. With a diameter of 370ft, the centre of the pool is a boiling 87c surrounded by rings of colour created by microbial mats (multilayered sheets of bacteria and archaea) around the edges of the thermal spring.
5) Szechenyi, Budapest
Built in 1913, the Szechenyi Baths are one of the most visited attractions in Budapest for its relaxing and romantic atmosphere, especially at night. Whilst being the biggest green park in Budapest, it is surrounded by gorgeous Neo-baroque architecture created for hosting Szechenyi baths since the Roman era. As well as soaking in these rich waters and getting to know the friendly Hungarian locals, you can also enjoy 18 pools, massages, spa treatments, and over 10 steam cabins.
6) Cascate del Mulino, Italy
Located on the grounds of an old mill, Cascate del Mulino is a dreamlike thermal spring where you can bathe in clean and comfortable warm water with a temperature of 37c. It is rare for such a gorgeous geological phenomenon to be open throughout the year and absolutely free to enjoy. Luckily, Cascate del Mulino is both and access to the pools is public and doesn’t cost a penny. Also, the waterfall at the top opens up to form natural pools on different levels, making for an unforgettable experience as you bathe in your own space.
7) Hot Springs Cove, Canada
Fancy a secluded adventure as well as a dip in restorative geothermal springs? Then Hot Springs Cove is for you. Based within Maquinna Marine Provincial Park, this hot spring is only accessible by boat or plane. Not only can you relax on the rocks as warm water from the waterfall drops over you, but on your journey, you can see a range of sea life including sea otters, sea lions and even whales. Choose your temperature of desire as you can bathe in lower temperature pools closer to the ocean or higher temperature pools closer to the waterfall. The incredible enchanted atmosphere will make for one of the best experiences in one of the best locations ever.
