Surrounded

alala_and_family

Termas romanas...💙

#termasnaturales #termas #relax #termasromanas#spain#yesa#aragón#ruinas#naturaleza #naturephoto #vanlifestyle #vanlife #vanlove#landscape #landscapephotos #

Spain, Spain, Spain and Spain. North, south, south and northwest. To start off this posting that is. 

the.wander.year

“Which is more important,”

asked big panda “the journey or the destination”?

“The company.” Said tiny dragon.

#bigpandaandtinydragon

It’s so important to surround yourself with people who believe in you, and mostly important to surround your ‘self’ with this believe…

How crazy your dreams get and whatever comes from the heart, should guide you to your only true journey…

destination happiness 😁✌️❤️

…on our way to wonderland…

#livingthedream #roadtothedream #camperfamily #nomadfamily #ontheroad #ontheroadagain #spaintravel #camperlife #hotsprings

manuma_fotografia

Baños de la Hedionda en invierno... Gracias @gianedale por la foto

la_puntilla_en_ruta

Termas de ourense.

Chavasqueira - muiño da veiga - outariz.

Buscabamos un plan huyendo del frío de los alpes sin nieve y ya que pedíamos con agua.

Casi no nos sacan de allí!

#ourense #riomiño #bañostermales #naturaleza #adiósalfrío #camperlife #viajarconperro #nomada #traveler #travel #vivirsobreruedas #viajarenfurgo

Useful

maja_koperwas

To byly przydatne dwa dni wymoczenia po tych dwoch miesiacach podrozy.

#travel #nature #travelphotography #love #photooftheday #instagood #travelgram #wanderlust #adventure #instatravel #explore #activelife #wondersoftheworld #backpacking #travelinspiration #travelideas #naturalhotsprings #bulgaria #podrozowanie #podrozemaleiduze #podrozniczka #thankyoumoreplease #notimelikenow #girltravel #thermalspringsbulgaria #thermalsprings #magicplace #gorąceźródła #hotsprings #spa

Assorted from southeast Europe. 

savikunterbunt

Wann haben wir in unserem Alltag Zeit für echte Sinnlichkeit?!

Nicht im erotischen Sinn, sondern die, die uns mit allen Sinnen uns selbst spüren lässt. Die uns hilft, unseren Körper wahrzunehmen und ihm zuzuhören.

Die uns wieder eins werden lässt, wenn wir aus dem Lot sind. Die Sinnlichkeit, die uns riechen, schmecken und fühlen lässt?

Die beste Zeit dafür ist jetzt ♥️

#zeitfürsinnlichkeit #zeitfürmich #zeitfürdich #zeitfüruns #savikunterbunt #selbstbestimmtleben #roadlife #lebenimwohnmobil #nomaden #nomadlife #daslebenistschön #naturwunder #homeiswhereyouparkit #heißequellen #weltenbummler #unterwegs #gipsylife #gipsysoul #hippiesoul #hippielife #hippielove #ichmachwasichwill #wirzwei

Legends

joonaslinkola

Tuscany mornings. One legend, according to the Etruscans and Romans, was that the Terme di Saturnia were formed by lightning bolts, thrown by Jupiter. During a violent quarrel between the two mythological deities, the bolts thrown towards Saturn had missed, causing the formations. The sulphurous spring water is at a temperature of around 37.5 °C. #tuscany #italy

Italy then, Tuscany, Sicily and Sardinia. 

_pozorsky

#tb #hotsprings

chris.gruff

Wintermode on! Raus aus dem Büro & Salve Sardinien! 🙌🏻Der perfekte Platz für ein paar Wochen Tapetenwechsel & feinster "Workation". 💻🏄🏻‍♂️⛰️😊

Zum Start gibt's erstmal ein paar Tage Erholung mit gutem Espresso, wandern & chillen in natürlichen Thermalbecken. 😍

#naturalhotsprings #workation #worklivebalance #digitalnomad

crshbrkr

Bon lundi a tous !!!

#renneslesbains #sourceeauchaude #love #sourcethermale #warmwater

And bowing out with France. 

edithtelllovenegas

Tu grandeza no es lo que tienes...

Es lo que das 💫

Que suerte...🍀

.

.

.

#termasnaturales #hotsprings #nature #naturista #girl #wildsoul #freespirit #lovemountains #lovenature #france #escapada #enpaz #enjoylife #campervan #vanlife #onteroad #outdoor #holidays #enjoylife ❣️

Plunge

vanlifeboys

Geen zwembroek?🩳🙅🏻‍♂️ Geen probleem! Net een heerlijke duik genomen in ons privé zwembad 😌 Hopelijk gaat dat zonder zwembroek even #Trefzeker als TONZON isolatie!

Would you dip with or without? 😏👙🩲

#EventrefzekeralsTONZON #Linkinbio #hotpool #hotsprings #hotspring #hotpools #hotpoolparty #relaxtime #thermalbaths #thermalbath #thermalbad #letsgetnaked #nakedheat #thermalwater #thermalspa #thermalsprings #freespace #thermalpool #nakedtruth #nakednature #nakedfeet #nakedtoes

A more serious post this time round. More on what's topical and basically what I have come accross and feel the need to share.

We're starting off in the lost and found section. A small discovery, The Guardian (Nov. 28) has an article about a Roman villa in Rutland (central UK) with a steamroom:

'Archaeologists at the site of a Roman villa complex in the east Midlands have discovered that its wealthy owners converted an agricultural timber barn into a dwelling featuring a bathing suite with a hot steam room, a warm room and a cold plunge pool.

...

The main feature of the dwelling was a Roman-style bath suite with sophisticated underfloor heating and heating ducts built into the walls. A tank outside the building may have been used to collect water from the roof'.

More significant though has been the extensive global attention given to the archeological dig in San Casciano dei Bagni and what it delved up from its past. Again the Guardian (Nov. 11):

'Since she was a child, Martina Canuti has been venturing down the steep hill flanking the Tuscan town of San Casciano dei Bagni, known by residents as “the sacred mountain”, to take a dip in the two ancient hot springs famed for their therapeutic benefits.

Little did she know that just a few metres away lay a sanctuary built by the Etruscans in the second century BC, containing a trove of treasures that could now reverse the fortunes of this relatively isolated town of 1,400 inhabitants near Siena.

...

Agnese Carletti, the town’s mayor, was curious too. Supported by funding from the government and private donors, she helped to set in motion an archaeological project that led to the discovery of 24 bronze statues, mostly dedicated to the gods, buried by mud and boiling water in the ruins of a network of thermal springs that had been a place of worship for both the Etruscans and Romans.

“It’s as if we found oil,” Carletti said. “Maybe all these gods are now bringing us some good fortune.” She said she hoped the find would trigger a tourism boost in a town facing economic challenges because of depopulation.

...

He [Dr Jacopo Tabolli, an assistant professor at the University for Foreigners in Siena] said the sanctuary, which was made more opulent during the Roman period, when it was frequented by emperors including Augustus, remained active until the 5th century AD, before being closed down, but not destroyed, during Christian times. The pools were sealed with heavy stone pillars while the divine statues were left in the water, which was rich in minerals, including calcium and magnesium.

“This water was considered great for the liver, for treating facial pain, for helping with fertility,” said Tabolli. “There was a lot of ritualistic practice connected to pregnancy, so the theme of natality was extremely important. But this was definitely not drinkable water, as it’s poisonous.”

Etruscan and Roman inscriptions have also been found at the site, and Tabolli said the artefacts uncovered so far represented an important testament to the transition between the two historical periods, with the baths being considered a haven of peace.

...

Bathing in the thermal springs under the light of a full moon on Thursday, the existence of the adjacent cordoned-off archaeological delight also came as a surprise to Sabrina Lepri, a visitor from Perugia.

“I was wondering what was behind the fence,” she said. “I’ve been coming here for 25 years, I love the springs for their natural wildness. Every time I emerge from the baths my skin feels incredible, as if I’ve had a massage. I hope the newfound fame doesn’t change things too much.”

Archaeology.wiki:

One of the findings of  San Casciano dei Bagni. Credit : Ministero della Cultura 

Prescription

A bit more explanation from the period as well as explaining why soaking is so enhancing. From SOS-SenseofSelf (Sep. 27):

'We can intuitively feel that bathing in hot water is good for us: whether a restorative two hours at the bathhouse or simply a long soak at home after work, it feels instinctual and somehow just right for our bodies and minds to be drawn to bathing. The idea of water being an ingredient of wellbeing is thought to have its origins in the word spa, or sanus per aquam in Latin, which beautifully translates as ‘health from water’ or ‘the health that comes from water.’

The hot springs of Europe have been associated with healing for centuries. The Ancient Greek and Roman spa cultures saw a connection between water and health. Some sources describe how the Ancient Greeks used clay and epsom salts, infused baths with bay laurel leaves and lavender-scented water, which doesn’t sound too different from many aromatherapy and spa treatments in the modern day. The Greeks also used thalassotherapy (saltwater bathing), while the Romans prescribed hydrotherapy that included not only immersing the whole body in water, but also drinking it in large quantities.

...

While it all sounds dreamy and magical, what draws many to spas and natural hot springs around the world is a wish to feel better. Rather than expecting miracles, the healing elements of bathing are one ingredient in a more holistic way of caring for the body and mind. This view can also recognise the fluid, changeable, cyclical nature of our bodies and that how we feel is bound to fluctuate. Challenging the idea of health being a singular destination, and notions of being ‘fixed’, we like to think about meeting the body where it is, connecting with it in some way, doing what feels good - a more natural and realistic concept of feeling well, and healing'.

chrisross.tnglg

THE PURIFICATION

From the L'ultimo Paleologo - Emanuele Rizzardi (Apr. 7), the answer to the question why we stopped using public hot springs and public baths during the Middle ages:

'Some say that it was Christianity, with its puritanical view, that forced citizens not to attend those places'.

Mention is made how once Roman empire imploded, the management costs of running public hot springs was simply unaffordable. A bit unclear.

Moving up the history ladder then. During my recent focus on soaking in Switserland I came accross info on the Büvetta Tarasp which was built in the 1860's. From Engadin.com came this:

'The two mineral springs Lucius and Emerita bubble up in the Büvetta Tarasp drinking hall. They are the richest mineral springs in the Lower Engadin and the Lucius spring is even considered the strongest mineral spring in Europe. Also the building itself that shelters both springs is a special feature'.

The beautiful drinking hall has fallen into disrepair though here too are activities to get it back up and running. In the milestones:

'2021Receipt of an NRP grant within the framework of the «Mountain Areas Programme Graubünden 2020-2023» in the amount of CHF 24,686.00 to develop the conceptual foundation'.

badekultur.ch

Büvetta Tarasp: Die Mineralablagerungen (Quelltuffe) an der Stelle, wo früher das Mineralwasser in den Inn geleitet wurde, sind gut sichtbar.

badekultur.ch - Badetücher für das Wasserschloss Schweiz#retro #swissdesign #swissdesigners #serviettedebain #segeln #rudern #societenautiquedegeneve #schweiztourismus🇨🇭 #tourismswitzerland #suissetourisme #regionaleprodukte #produitslocaux #regionduleman #vaudtourisme #badekultur #badekulturinundennetbaden #sommeramzuerisee #sommeramzuerisee #leaulairetmoi #rhiischwümme #basel #baselswitzerland #rhyschwimme #engadin #büvettatarasp

Not entirely to do with soaking, but still encouraging as we seem to be moving forward by heralding the past. The town of Bath has opened a two century old lido swimming pool. The Guardian (Sep. 30):

'Built in 1815, the Grade II-listed Cleveland Pools is the UK’s oldest public outdoor swimming pool. The country’s many revamped lidos were mainly built in the 1920s and 30s, so are whippersnappers compared with this one. Hidden from general view, the pools (there are two – a main 25m pool and a children’s splash pool) are set within a walled garden and reached via an unassuming footpath between two houses on a quiet residential street. The feeling of otherworldliness is enhanced by a caretaker’s cottage and changing cubicles shaped like Bath’s Royal Crescent in miniature, and the pools’ lagoon-like position along the River Avon'.

Unstable

A couple of shorter snippets of info. 

Les Bains de Taccana (southern Corsica) are receiving a long overdue renovation, considering they have been closed for 15 years. Ongoings easy to keep up to date with on Instagram.

e_.r_.w_.a_.n_.n

Petit bain dans une source thermale à 38 degrés pour se détendre de cette journée éreintante 😉😉😉 #caldane #sourcethermalecaldane #vacances #corsica #detente #sourcethermale. @sourcethermalecaldane

More faded glory though with a bright spot for soakers. The low levels of the various artificial lakes in Spain, leave excess to forgotten hot springs. 

El Cado do Chorche (Nov. 21, 2021, but only recently updated) on the termas of Tiermas (Navarra / Alto Aragon) has the last word. Translated:

'Although most of the time it lies under the waters of the Pyrenees Sea, as it is known due to its colossal dimensions, in times of great drought the ruins that mark the place where it was located are discovered. Then the miracle arises and the hot springs spring from the rubble'.

He notes that for centuries bathing was possible, up unto WWII, when fire wrecked havoc on the bathing facilities which eventually became submerged when the hydropower lake came about in last century's fifties.

Recent levels have brought back a Medieval bridge:

'Currently the Yesa regrowth expansion works are being carried out, controversial due to the administration's commitment to carry them out with the justification that it is the expansion and consolidation of irrigation as well as the water supply to Zaragoza capital. However, its cost is very high, and it increases day by day due to the technical difficulties of building the dam on unstable slopes that create an unaffordable security risk. With the work finished, the level of the reservoir would rise and the remains of the spa would possibly be submerged ta cutio*'.

chaverocampanom (at Tiermas):

Esculpiendo M❤️More Spain.

The ever excellent Tierras sin Fronteras provides (Oct. 22) it readers of all the ins and outs concerning Termas de Arnedillo, Rioja country, again northern Spain. Their tips (translated):

'The first and most important piece of advice: I recommend visiting the Arnedillo pools during the week or at unusual times, at dawn or at night. On weekends this is a place very frequented by people and what should be a relaxing and quiet activity can become the complete opposite. This does not happen on weekdays or non-holidays.

...

It is important to respect the atmosphere of tranquility and relaxation that is created in these natural baths. Avoid talking loudly, making noises, eating or drinking inside the Arnedillo bathrooms, smoking, leaving garbage.

... 

If you are not capable of behaving in this way, it is better not to visit them. People will thank you!'

HolyandHealingwells has travelled abroad for the summer. There's an entry (Aug. 19) on Catalunya's Caldes de Malavela. Again lots of ancient history.

'All around the town can be found three natural hot mineral-medicinal fountains: La Mina or Raig d’en Mel, Sant Narcís and Bullidors. In some cases such as La Mina these waters were utilised for safareigs or municipal cloth washing areas and indeed I was informed at the museum that people still use them although generally it was around the 1960s that they generally fell out of favour. However, the Font Raig d’en Mel arises at the base of a large wall of rubble and feeds quite modern looking washing areas'.

The Malavela located Balneari Prats still has thermal wellness on the menu, as does the Vichy Catalan.

coralie_lopez_

Summer 2022

#auvergne #tourisme #thermes #nature🍃 #sourceeauchaude #detente #chill

Green

Back to Italy with bathing news from Viterbo. 

In early summer 2022 (Jun. 23), Tusciaweb reported on that the court case which sees the indefinite closure of the Bagnaccio thermal park. The article sets out to clarify why the appeal was knocked down. Either the case is very difficult or we have literally lost the giss of the story in translation.

Still on Viterbo, relevant or not to this everlasting tug of war concerning public access to the local hot spring water. Tusciaweb (Nov. 9) and translated:

'The judge ruled definitively declaring: “The cessation of the matter of the dispute between Free Time and the Le Masse di San Sisto association – reports the sentence – with full compensation of the costs of the litigation.

It partially accepts the request proposed by Free Time and therefore prohibits the Antiche Terme Romane from any form of cultivation, pumping, capture, collection or use of the hydrothermal waters from the San Sisto well and condemns the removal of all works connected to the direct use of such waters".

Fulfillment already carried out: "Acknowledges that the execution has been carried out".

It is the final chapter, even if the story has yet to be written in the area, with Freetime engaged in the construction of a spa facility in Paliano, with the modified project in progress also due to the constraint imposed by the Superintendence.

So the closure of the San Sisto bathing facilities has been formally approved'.

Earlier in the month (Nov. 2) Tuscia Times noted how many visitors the Viterbo (and mostly free) hot springs were attracting. Translated snippet:

'The clear sky and the pleasant sun have invited many bathers, eager for relaxation and well-being, to immerse themselves in the monumental swimming pool and in the other Viterbo thermal baths that have always been appreciated by the inhabitants of the City of Popes'.

sebastiancolnaghi

Mi consiglieresti di visitare i Bagni San Filippo? 😊

Se ti va di dare un’occhiata o seguire la mia pagina ne sarei felice! 🤙🏻

Then something different. ThinkGeoenergy concerns (Sep. 2) itself with Italian geopower generation, Green Power versus environment:

'Italy Prime Minister Mario Draghi has given the green light for a 10-MW binary geothermal power plant in the industrial area of Val di Paglia at the foot of Mount Amiata in the Abbadia San Salvatore (Siena) municipality, Tuscany. The project was proposed by Sorgenia and will be the first geothermal power plant in Italy that is not operated by Enel Green Power.

The decision of the PM overturns the rejection of the project by the Superintendencies for environmental reasons. After unsuccessful mediation between the Superintendencies via the Ministry of Culture and the Tuscany Region, the decision fell at the hands of the Council of Ministers who ultimately decided in the affirmative.

The proposed power plant will also be the first in Italy to use binary cycle technology. Those who support the project have highlighted the lack of emissions of this type of power plant. It is expected to go online not earlier than 2027. According to the forecasts of the project, it will supply the power needs of 32,000 families and will help avoid emissions of up to 40,000 tons of CO2.

According to the regional regulations, Sorgenia will need to conduct geological investigations with focus on the subject of subsistence. The company will also need to provide a report on the compensatory reforestation effort including details on the choice of plant species, density, plant spacing, and care'.

Rubbed

A couple of various country specific finds.

Over on medium.com an article (Nov. 6) on a visit to the Kaiser Friedrich Therme in Wiesbaden (central Germany):

'When in Germany, do as the Germans do. Did anyone recoil at seeing my naked body? A little disappointingly, no one even looked.

...

So, what was the price he [author's partner] paid for not coming into the therme with me?

Well, he missed out on meeting two lovely American girls but more than that, he was so upset at me going naked in front of other people that he walked into a solid glass door, almost concussing himself. He developed a massive headache that lasted all the way back to England'.

huete6

No porque una persona se muestre fría significa que no siente nada.

Wanderingcarol (Nov. 1) has a look at Fairytale Czech spa towns:

'Spa towns in the Czech Republic have history, style and water in abundance. Even if you’re not interested in spa treatments, the spa culture here is so much more: grand architecture, tradition, scenic locations and incredible hikes'.

A very thorough intro to the subject. Some more:

'Don’t Be Scared of Medical spas in Europe. They’re Not What You Think

What’s a European Spa Cure?

It’s a spa package that is several days long, and generally includes treatments that are traditional and organic in nature such as thermal water baths, mud or peat wraps, and massages.

When you take a ‘spa cure’ in a Czech spa town you start out with a visit to the spa doctor in either your hotel or at a central spa.

Seeing a Spa Doctor

Seeing a spa doctor is common in other European countries too, including France, Italy and Hungary. While the thought of seeing a doctor on my holiday used to fill me with fear, now I look forward to working with the doctor to plan a custom-made medical spa holiday.

What are Medical Spa Treatments in Europe?

In North America we might refer to medical spa treatments as ‘wellness’ treatments. They’re more focused on healing than pampering.

In general, Czech medical-based spa treatments (medical wellness) revolve around organic therapies based on natural resources. Think spring water, mud, and natural CO2. They include things like mud packs, massage and mineral-water baths.

So when we’re talking medical spa therapies, we’re not talking plastic surgery – though in some expensive high brow spas that might be an option.

This traditional type of medical wellness goes back hundreds of years in Europe, and the area of Bohemia in the Czech Republic is one of the best places in Europe to dive in.

...

Here’s something that may surprise you. Franzensbad is also famous for treating gynaecological disorders, including infertility.

In fact it’s such a well-known Czech spa for treating infertility that one of its main attractions is the bronze statue of a boy named František in the main park. It’s said that rubbing either the statue’s private bits or the nose (I’m not sure which, because I don’t dare go near it) will give you a leg up (pardon the pun) on bearing children'.

Akbartravels.com poses (Nov. 25) the question of whether there are natural hot springs in Georgia. A.:

'Natural Hot Springs in Georgia have been part of life and culture since the fifth century, and the bath houses gained prominence in the 13th century. They were mostly for everything, not just beating. Georgians would love to socialise and debate the day’s issues, and mothers would even use these to assess the bride’s suitability for their son. Workers from the different unions would travel to Georgia to visit the thermal bath during the Soviet era. They are exercising their rights to rest as afforded by the constitution'.

From the above you'll already note that the English language is set to expand with new expressions. On Tiblisi:

'The majority of the bathhouses offer public and private options and kissy scrubs besides massages'. 

With the query answered comes a detailed list of where. Though I stick with our own recommendations on this blog.

Youcouldtravel has an updated (Dec. 2) guide to Caciulata (Romania).

'Caciulata is a mountain town in Romania in the country of Valcea. It is located by the Olt River, by the Southern Carpathians. Caciulata has several thermal springs, hence it is mostly known by locals as a spa town'.

baablebrox

Bains Naturels Sauvages de Prats Balaguer #bath #hotwater #nature #mist #pyrenees

Blue

The second medley overview of the past sauna experiences, chapter two: Netherlands. Following some of the experiences had (and still remembered) which haven't been published elsewhere on the site (such as Thermae 2000).

Our visits to wellness / sauna resorts in the Netherlands are usually unplanned, more a whim of thing. There's also no plan to visit all or try to be complete. As you will notice you'll see that most are in the south; most convenient to where we live, though still quite far away.

So our choice of where to go is mostly based on convenience, curiosity and /or budget friendliness of the resorts; sometimes I'm just a sucker for economical options.

Let's start this overview with a real oddity. 

In the Brabant town of Mill, near their inland harbour lies a 40m luxury ship which has been retrofitted as a wellness complex. With saunas inside and on the shore. Aptly named Blue Wellnessboot Mill, it consists of 5 different saunas, an outdoor and indoor swimming pool, a number of jacuzzi's. 

Blue Wellness is a Netherlands based chain of wellness resorts, dare I say working near the bottom of the market. That makes it prone to persons seeking a cheap alternative, though in Mill the ship theme limits both the number of guests allowed while simultaneously encouraging others likewise curious.

My impression from a visit in 2020 was quite good, the setting of course surprising, it's also on board quite narrowish, but outside are also a sauna and hammam. Good overall, let's say eight, which in my world seems quite elaborate. 

Note the reviewers who seem to believe that the experience is getting less.

Google notes 4.1 stars (1300+ (!) reviews), most in Dutch, the odd German review. Recent reviews fluctuate, good and poor experiences I suppose.

Tripadvisor similar with 4 stars (260 reviews), most in Dutch with the past year showing very few positive reviews ...

Facebook more positive with 4.4 stars (500+ reviews), again not so positive concerning the last year; someone remarked that overall the place is not getting any better; many complaints concerning catering and maintenance.

Jouw sauna gids, a Dutch website, also has many reviews (without a note) who also have little positives to mention concerning recent experiences.

Blootgewoon, again solely Dutch and operating under the pretext of unclothed recreation is best (it is!) rates it an 8.5.

Staying with the Blue Wellness company, they also operate a smaller complex in the Trivium hotel cellar (also in Brabant) on the outskirts of the town of Etten Leur. With the same name Blue Spa Trivium.

Back in 2020, the sauna and steam room were ok, the coolish pool and the only jacuzzi were hardly sufficient for the number of hotel guests as well as guests from outside. Thus a 6.5.

Following our que possibly, Google indicates 3.7 stars (from 50 reviews), most in Dutch with remarks concerning small size of sauna. On Facebook, only 1 reviewer who wasn't very happy. Jouwsaunagids also with very little mentioned. Tripadvisor doesn't discern between hotel and wellness, so insignificant dealing with ratings.

Contrasts

Moving to the north of Netherlands, basically in a quiet and relative empty part of the country is the sauna of Het Friese Woud. Near the village of Boijl, it has five saunas, a hammam, an outdoor pool, an indoor pool.

As could be expected for this less centrally located sauna complex, all reviews are in Dutch. Google gives it 4.4 stars from 380+ reviews, all seem quite satisfied. Facebook 4.8 stars from 65+ reviews, again all positive. Tripadvisor: 4 stars from 20 reviews, not many recent. Jouwsaunagids is also positive. Blootgewoon similar with a very good rate of 9.1.

Our 2020 visit notes are a 7.5, noting the small rather dark catering area, good outdoor pool, good aufguss / infusion session.

Back to the south of the country, one of Netherlands new and shiny sauna paradises lies in a sparsely forested area north of the city of Breda. SpaOne opened its doors in 2019. Quite a few saunas (eight?) some with some very nice and original architecture. An indoor pool, outdoor pool. Steambaths, a saltwater pool, etc. Too much to experience within a single visit.

Google raves with 4.7 stars, 1000+ reviews. Again virtually all Dutch reviews, most very positive though some mention is made concerning the other more vocal guests, which I also tend to agree with; maybe the Dutch are less reserved.

Facebook likewise a 4.9  (from 350 reviews), while Tripadvisor a more modest 4.5 stars (19 reviews; are Dutch people yet to use Tripadvisor?).

Jouwsaunagids publishes a Top 10 for 2022, and 4 is the position awarded to SpaOne, while Blootgewoon believes it to be the best sauna of 2022 and rates it with a hefty 9.4.

Visited 2019, a nine, despite the mention above concerning other guests; maybe they were simply exuberant / enthusiastic.

Slightly different to the above examples is the sauna which stands on Athena Ossendrecht campsite. Small and rustic and it's slightly old, the single sauna offers a charm to the campsite, but maybe not as a one off experience.

Reviews on solely the sauna are unavailable, though the campsite garners good votes.

Visited early 2022, I would note a seven based on the sauna only. A stay here though is excellent, good catering, good facilities, nice surroundings.

Central in the sunny province of Zeeland, Sauna & Wellnessresort Goes has a rather unimaginative name for what they note as a luxury wellness facility. I wouldn't describe it that but it does do it's best. A sweat sauna, 3 different saunas, an outdoor / indoor pool, a couple of jacuzzi's and a large area for it's restaurant. Often good entrance-only deals are to be had.

Google reviews note a mellow 4.3 stars (527 reviews), the descriptions though tend to be more positive. Apparently if you don't expect first class, you charmed in by the other visitors / staff, while the facilities are adequate.

Facebook seems very much similar, 4.5 stars, 200 plus reviewers. Jouwsaunagids also likes this sauna complex. Blootgewoon notes 8.6.

Tripadvisor has only 4 stars to share, less reviewers too (80+).

We would give our 2022 visit an eight; not bad, but not exceptionally good either. Pity that some guests tend to stay as long as possible in the hotter baths / jacuzzi's. The aufguss / infusion was good, the system with cards handed out half an hour on forehand works better (aufguss sessions are so in demand that people will line up on forehand, 20 minutes), but now it's a run for cards! Maybe just ensure more aufguss sessions?

Apologies for the above, it does ramble on a bit. And no photo's to break the monotony; all photo's nowadays are all management / social media approved, thus added virtually nothing. Just close your eyes and imagine.

Shrivel

piplo90

Is there anything better on a cool evening than coming across a natural hot spring? The water was is the temperature of a perfect bath. We stayed in until we shrivelled and the sun was almost down. It was perfect. Now it's time for a morning dip. 🩱🩳

#hotsprings #turkey #travelturkey #vanlifeturkey #coupletravel #traveldiaries #bathtime

A quickfire photographic overview, starting with a couple of springs beyond the geograpical borders of Europe.

robinou.on.the.road

Vani Sulfur Spring 🇬🇪🐳😄

#camperlife #campingcarlife #naturelovers #adventurelovers #homeiswhereyouparkit #homeonwheels

#everywhereathome #worldismygarden #familytravel #takeyourkidseverywhere #roadtrip #exploringgeorgia #hotsprings #happiness

sam_mysweetescapes

The Ma'in Hot Springs also known as Hammamat Ma'in are a series of hot mineral springs and waterfalls located between Madaba and the Dead Sea.

🇯🇴🇯🇴 J O R D A N 🇯🇴🇯🇴

M A ‘ I N 💦⛰🌳🌿

#worldshotz

#worldtraveler #hotsprings #jordan #jordanie #landscapephotography #igtravel #wonderfuldestinations #voyageuse #globbetrotter #exploratravel #travelphotography #igersjordan #igerstravel #travelblogger #photooftheday #earthfocus #explorejordan #wonderful_places #hammamat #capturethemoment #voyageursdumonde #visitjordan #traveladdicted #thermalbaths #naturalspa #bienêtre #dreamtravel #adventure #enjoylife

Rush

benedettastaffulani

Italy then. Cental, north and south.

lolakrol

Góry nigdy nie przestaną mnie zaskakiwać🤩

Taka perełka we włoskich Alpach.

Trochę wspinaczki🧗🏻‍♀️ i przeprawy przez rwący potok🌊, ale warto. Gorące źródełko🔥 i to z jakim widokiem wow😍

Ktoś widział, ktoś był?

#passostelvio #italia #alps #training #snowboarding #snowboardgirl #hotspring #hotsprings #smilegirl #smileeveryday #natureisamazing #polishgirl #powergirl #beautiful #natureisbeautiful #smilealways #mountaingirls #mountains #smilegirl #mountainlovers #mountainview #secretspot #uśmiech #usmiechnijsie #natura #polskadziewczyna #trening #widok #góry #alpy

JM & K2

Thermal Beach | Baia di Sorgeto, Ischia Italy

Drenched

alala_and_family

Sentimendutan bustia ❤

#yesa#termasnaturales #aguasulfurosa #termas#naturaleza

#terapia#terapianatural#landscape#viviendoelmomento

South and north of the Pyrenees. 

paul.poulain

Pour arriver enfin à ces rêves d'enfants

Qui n'ont pas de limites comme on a maintenant

J'ai vu des dauphins nager dans un ciel de coton

Où des fleurs volaient, caressant l'horizon

Vu des arbres pousser, remplaçant les gratte-ciels

J'ai vu au fond de l'eau une nuée d'hirondelles

Fountain 

zuzanna.drzy

Hot Springs, Banja Luka #banjaluka #hotsprings #summer #travel #travelphotography #nature #bosniaandherzegovina #wanderlust #bluewater #traveling #spot #purenature #happiness #watercolor#calm#naturephotography#naturelovers

Central Europe, Switzerland, Bosnia and Albania.  

beadventurerinswitzerland

As fontes termais Cambioula são uma das muitas curiosidades geológica do Val D'Hérens. Ela é uma das fontes de água quente mais importantes da Suíça. Cerca de 81 nascentes emergem das rochas com temperaturas que podem chegar a 25 a 29°C. O gradiente geotérmico do nosso planeta faz com que a temperatura aumente em média de 30 graus por km de profundidade. As águas que se infiltram as falhas irão, portanto, aquecer e ficar carregadas de minerais. De todas as águas termais listadas nos Alpes suíços, segundo o centro de pesquisa geotérmica de Neuchâtel, as águas de Cambioula são, com as de Pro San Gian em St-Moritz, as mais ricas em sulfatos, cloretos, magnésio e sódio. O cheiro característico de ovo podre que se nota próximo as termas é o de sulfeto de hidrogênio. As fontes estão localizadas ao nível do rio Borgne, no município de Saint-Martin. A água sai do solo a uma temperatura de cerca de 28 graus mesmo junto ao rio e permite dar um mergulho graças às pequenas piscinas formadas por pedras e que podem atingir os 50 à 70 centímetros de profundidade.

😊Este será a surpresa da nossa próxima trilha! Sábado dia 26.03.22

#valdherens #valais #termas #termasgeometricas #aguaquente #curiosidadessuíças #suiça #alpessuiços #myswitzerland #myswitzerlan #swissalps #suiçabrasileira #brasileirospelomundo #brasileirosnaeuropa #brasileirosnasuiça #brasileirassemfronteiras #turismo #turismonasuica #turistandonasuica #turistando #valais #valaisgravedansmoncoeur #valaisactif #beadventurer #beadventurerinswitzerland #myvaldherens

vanlife.balkan

Follow @vanlife.balkan for more about the Balkans and Van Life

📍Albania 🇦🇱 Bënja Hot Springs

🏔🏔🏔🚐🚐🚐🌊🌊🌊

Credits: @laraandlaurenz

🏔🏔🏔🚐🚐🚐🌊🌊🌊

#vanlife #vanlifebalkan #travel #wanderlust #camper #vanlifeeurope #naturelovers #homeonwheels #vanlifemoments #homeiswhereyouparkit #camping #vanlifegoals #vanlifemontenegro #vanlifealbania #albania #benja #greece #balkan #hot #hotsprings #hotspringsalbania

Coloured

sarit_davidovsky

#greekpic #aday

מעיינות פוזאר. מעיינות טבעיים של מים חמים (הכי כייף בחורף כשקר). שעה וחצי נסיעה מסלוניקי. מעיין פתוח לציבור, עם מפל של מים חמים נטורל. זה הצבע!

#loutraki #pozar #hotsprings #crazyblue #unrealblue #naturalhotsprings #loutrapozar #greecestagram #travelblogger #travelgram #mysisters #greece_travel #itsallgreektome #יוון

Greece to round this posting off.

deniaa_pap

🌿🍃

Stunned

lusi_jir

Another ice adventure right next to a canyon with incredibly blue water. There are still many hidden places like this around our home

Další ledové dobrodružství hned vedle kaňonu s neuvěřitelně modrou vodou. Kolem našeho domova je stále mnoho skrytých míst jako je toto

An Icelandic themed entry. 

Where shall we start? Topical I hear you say.

New on the block? Inspired by Iceland (Aug. 9): 

'Welcome to Hvammsvík - Nature Resort & Hot Springs, a newly opened nature resort located in the middle of Hvalfjörður in Visit West Iceland, which is only 45 minutes drive from Reykjavik. This stunning resort offers eight natural hot springs situated along the shoreline, allowing guests to enjoy this magnificent view of the ocean and the surrounding mountains  #inspiredbyiceland'

From the Hvammsvík website:

'Eight natural hot springs that evolve into the ocean; temperatures range from ocean temperatures (around 10°C) to 42°C in the old original hot spring'.

Google has 44 reviews, all but one are 5 star reviews. While Tripadvisor's 18 reviews come to 5 stars as well. Consistency across the board.

The price? Slightly more than 50 euros!

Travel and Leisure (Sep. 14) also mention the Hvammsvík hot springs:

'There’s now a new way to experience the Icelandic waters at the recently opened Hvammsvík Hot Springs. Located in ​​Hvalfjörður, just about an hour northeast of Reykjavik, the 1,200-acre family-owned estate is home to eight hot springs that pull from the property’s own geothermal source 4,593 feet underground'.

If you google Hvammsvík, you will receive a great number of hits concerning a recent soaking experience. Do note that some seem not to have headed out there at all it seems. For instance Thetravel.com (Sep. 22) went to experience Hvammsvík. At least that's what the article implies. Reality: I don't think so. Why then leave this impression? The place must have a good PR person.

sandra_arteaga_castro

Despidiéndome de Islandia con el viaje en grupo por la isla😍

Pedazo de foto que me ha hecho @mari_jose_aranguren en @hvammsvik

Actually looking at the many current photos and one such as above, I do believe it does look similar to what may have been in the past: a free hot spring.

Proof? Reykjavik Grapevine (Dec. 29, 2012) has a list of hot springs in south Iceland. It also has geo details of what they note as Hvalfjarðarlaug hot spring:

'This pool is in Hvalfjörður near Hvammsvík. Driving along route 1 from Reykjavik, turn right on road 47. Follow this road until you can turn left near Hvammsvik'.

The GPS numbers used in the article are also identical to those of the new resort ...

Then there are a couple of Iceland Monitor articles. Nov. 25, 2019:

'There are plans to build sea baths in Hvammsvík cove in Hvalfjörður fjord, West Iceland - a 40-minute drive from Reykjavík. The plans, which require changes to the current land-use, have been posted by the Kjósarhreppur district, Morgunblaðið reports.

...

The sea baths are to be located at the site of the cove’s natural pool. A parking lot for 50 cars is planned, in addition to parking spots for 2-3 buses. The service building will measure 500 m2 (5,400 sq ft). Efforts will be made to use Icelandic material and Icelandic art as much as possible for the project. All the pools will be built of stones from the beach or the vicinity'.

So much for the neighbourhood. Then Sep 17, 2021:

'Further development of a recreational area and sea baths in Hvammsvík cove in Hvalfjörður fjord, West Iceland, will be partly financed with proceeds from the sale of 30 lots in the area, Morgunblaðið reports.

Hvammsvík, located only a 40-minute drive north of Reykjavík, was purchased in 2011 by former WOW Air CEO Skúli Mogensen'.

So the hot spring hype continues, another free accessible hot spring to be off-listed ...

Connect

But is Hvammsvík something for you? I don't have the foggiest. Nowadays, there is literally too much info out there, making a choice of hot pots is mind-blowing. Unless you decide to visit them all.

But maybe there's a shortcut. The Iceland Hot Pot Guide, a recent (?, Sep. 13 updated) app on Android:

'Iceland Hot Pot Guide - app with all hot springs and pools over the Iceland'.

Quite a few of the most popular hot springs and hot pools from near Reykjavik are included, this info for free. Want more? For (just) €5,49 they claim info on 160 hot springs / pools on the island. 

Roughly 1000 downloads of the app currently, no reviews however on the app itself? 

I must say it looks pretty slick, it might be a good alternative to other websites or guidebooks, though the former of course require no wifi ...

Directly in competition is the EpicIceland list of all hot springs:

'Enjoy our unique and detailed list of all Icelandic hot springs! Currently 59 hot springs. Note: the page is still a “work in progress” and we are adding new and new info every day. If you think some info should be updated, feel free to contact us! Also, please, if you know of any hot spring not listed here, let us know and we will give you all the credit for that one! 

Comes with some descriptions and an interactive map!

Then there are a couple of websites which deem themselves invaluable when concerning soaking info.

Reykjavik Excursions (Aug. 9) has a guide to hot springs and geothermal pools in Iceland. Mostly though of the constructed variety.

With this in mind, Tosomeplacenew informs of the alternatives to the Blue Lagoon (Jun. 3). They list 23 alternatives:

'We have been to the Blue Lagoon twice, and although quite liked it (but have a new favorite now), we do understand many don’t wish to visit this hot pool.

When we spoke to travelers, these are some of the reasons they shared:

Too expensive (it is expensive as compared to some of the other geothermal pools listed in this guide)

Too crowded (it is not super crowded at the pool as the lagoon is big enough to accommodate a large crowd and tickets are time-stamped)

Difficult to find a time slot that works for your itinerary (we have been there. Because the Blue Lagoon is located near the airport it is suggested that people visit before flying in and out of the country, and sometimes tickets are sold out in advance!)

Too popular (and you want to visit something offbeat)'.

Readers might be interested in this small soaking side note (and in itself quite a step in noting how mainstream soaking has become).  IcelandMonitor (Nov. 14):

'The board of directors of the Blue Lagoon has made a decision to begin preparing for the registration of the company on the Nasdaq Iceland Main Market'.

Anyroad. Hey Iceland (Nov. 11) has compiled an overview of possibly 30 soaks. The intro is catchy:

'Hot tubs and natural hot springs have been a part of Iceland's culture since the settlement era. The love for swimming and bathing is engraved in our DNA. For centuries we have known the health benefits of bathing in the oh-so-wonderful warm mineral water and de-stressing and relaxing every muscle in your body after a hard day at work. Almost all Icelandic swimming pools are geothermally heated so they are warm and cosy all year round. Most of the facilities also sport a hot tub or two. Swimming pools are even considered one of the most important places to socialize, work out and unwind'.

A very varied overview

Campervaniceland (Aug. 12) has their own overview of course:

'Iceland is notorious [not] for its natural hot springs all over the island, and one of the things visitors love to do is sit in the warm water and watch over the chilly, majestic Iceland landscape. In this article, we reveal which Iceland hot springs are worth a dip during your next visit'.

One of their of what is to believed to be the benefits of a soak on Iceland:

'Feeling Connected

This is an interesting benefit that we all discovered first-hand during the Covid pandemic. We all have an incredible need to feel connected with one another (no matter how big of an introvert you think you are). And you don’t need to stock up on your social engagements to do so – even just being around people will give you that connected feeling and lift your spirits. All over the world community baths have served that purpose all over the world and the Iceland thermal baths are no different'.

With a best of springs and a best of pools.

Heading more locally, Beyondthemoments (Jun. 9) has a best secret hot springs of Southern Iceland. It actually means just one (secret) and goes at lengths to reveal the secret which results in quite a lot of feedback from other tourists who have consequently done likewise rendering the secret quite useless.

Less of a secret (depending on your definition I suppose), but yes south Iceland. And that all important connection feeling:

ionnalee

from one of our magical @twimclabel expeditions in Ísland. blistering cold, sea sickness and salt. just like home. looking forward to our next adventure ❄️

Fear

And then we delve into Icelandic soaking culture. 

First up a recent (Sep. 22) lengthy Reykjavik Grapevine article on the most controversial soaking related habit of Icelandic pools:

'Many tourists in Iceland try to avoid bathing before going to swimming pools, reports Fréttablaðið. The staff at the swimming pools say that the problem is a fear of being watched.

...

They all say that there are no special penalties for not taking a shower without a swimsuit before going to the pool.

“This is a problem and has always been a problem,” says Aðalheiður. “We’ve done what we can to avoid this, for example, by being in the changing rooms during the busiest times,” she adds.

Visitors to Vök Baths who book in advance receive a video sent by email 24 hours before arriving at the pool, where the local rules are reviewed, including the fact that everyone must take a shower.

...

Elín, Karen and Brá agree that there is nothing to fear, even if one and all go to the pool without bathing. The pool’s chlorine level increases in line with its dirtiness.

“We also use this to get people to shower, saying that the more people who don’t, the more chlorine there will be in the water,” says Karen.

In Vök Baths, things are different because there is no chlorine in the water but a continuous flow.

...

“Most people take a shower, but the question is always whether people wash properly or take off their swimsuits, but we also have a changing room where people can take off their swimsuits privately and we just have to trust that people take off,” says Elín

“It varies depending on the nationality, but most people have a fear of being seen naked in common that’s why they avoid showering naked,” adds Elín'.

Is this really such a contentious issue?
Yes, delve a little deeper in the web and you'll hardly believe what you will find.
Dangerousbusiness has updated (Sep. 12) its 10 essential tips for visiting Icelandic hot springs:

'7. You have to shower – naked
There's no naked bathing at any of the organized hot springs in Iceland, though. 
Speaking of showering, you're expected to do it – sans swimsuit – before getting into any pool or hot tub in Iceland. There are signs all over every locker room, and sometimes locker room attendants around to remind you, too.
In some cases, there may be one private changing room, or a few shower stalls with doors in each locker room. But in most cases there's just one large open shower area that everyone is expected to use.
I know this part is often shocking and uncomfortable for some American women (I get it; naked people in locker rooms wasn't normal where I grew up either), but it's quite normal in Europe. It's very likely (in fact, I'd say it's guaranteed) that there will be women walking around in the locker room naked – and the same is true in the men's locker room.
Don't stress about it if there's no private area to shower. Avert your eyes if you want, shower quickly, put on your swimsuit, and then move on'.

Is showering not naked in Iceland a taboo? Apparently:

travel.taboos

ICELAND 🇮🇸

Don't enter geothermal baths without having a shower before.

#dondoo #discover #interestingfacts #aroundtheworld #travel #trip #iceland #island #icelandtrip #icelandroadtrip #geothermalbath #baths #shower #icelandthermalbaths #naturalbath #thermalbaths #perfectnature #exploreiceland

Then again they miss the naked part ...

On Reddit/visitingIceland there's even a recent (3 months old) posting concerning the showering possibilities at most of the paid soaking places:

'I am a very modest and self-conscious person, so one thing I was worried about is if any of the baths would offer private showering areas- so I will list that as well in my review of each place in case it helps anyone else'.

Well, that might just be a lifesaver for the more prudish soakers, possibly a sign how soaking culture is moving forward (or dare I say backwards ...).

Again a good comments section; comments sections usually never cease to be boring, often better than the article / question itself.

But we are not there yet. 

Things can get even weirder (in my eyes). Again Reddit (maybe I should ignore this as a reputable source of info), a month ago:

'I am a 24 year old girl , currently in Reykjavik and I want to go to a outside pool such as Blue Lagoon which I heard it is a turist trap.

In others pool I heard there is a communal shower thing I need to have completely naked. I am not used to this. My concern is if it is okay to wear nipple coverings so I will not get fully exposed.

Do you think I will stand out as weird by doing that?'

The answer by nearly all respondents was yes.

A sight for my sore eyes:

sleepymasquerade

Islandia Dzień 4 🧡 Pamiętajcie, że rzeka jest gorąca u góry. Na dole pizga. #iceland #reykjadalur #reykjadalurhotsprings #hotsprings #icelandhotsprings #rangarbingeystra #polishgirls #travelphotography #traveltheworld #travelgram #icelandroadtrip #icelandtravel #icelandadventure #icelandnature #icelandphotography

Luckily for the counterbalance, there's this from What a shame Mary Jane, a recent (Nov. 7) vlog. The author heads out to an underground hot spring (now that's a secret) which all genders enjoy naked. Why not?

This brings Mary Jane to discuss why we are so hung up on non-nudity. It's all thrown at us on a daily basis: naked equates sex, such is what advertising firms want us to believe. But of course it's not she discovers. And prefers.

More or less on the same subject. But a less recent find. Urvor (Mar. 17, 2020) has a post called Getting Naked. In the article author Ellen Wild reflects on the role the (mostly) geothermally fed swimming pools are playing both in city life as well as in Icelandic village life (the feeling connected maybe?). And how the author shuns swimming pools outside of Iceland but embraces these when on sojourn on the island:

'It doesn’t matter how small or remote the village, it will have a swimming pool. The origin of this social meeting habit lies in those amazing hot springs lying around in the Icelandic nature. It is the middle way between two Icelandic extremes, the weather and the searing hot volcanic activity. Now and then you find that sweet spot that is a hot spring with just the right temperature.

But what I love the most about this swimming pool culture is maybe not the pools in and of itself. It is the culture of body neutrality that is a direct consequence of it. The male and female dressing rooms are open and communal. The shower is also open and communal. On top of that, everyone is required to shower and wash thoroughly before entering the pool. Naked. Considering the frequency Icelandic people go to the pool, it means that they see each other naked a lot. Mother and daughter. Grandson and grandfather. Nieces. Schoolchildren and their teacher. Friends. They grew up with this being a normality. There is no shame. A body is a body, without any unnecessary connotation.

I love the confrontation this brings to tourists. A confrontation that hopefully makes them question their own belief systems and the cultural habits of their upbringing. There is no need to have shame for oneself. And a good starting point to practice this is with your own body.

The discomfort that is brought to said tourists is forcing them to come out of their comfort zone and face oneself. It is something to contemplate while enjoying the warm water. This is the personal growth that comes with a visit to an Icelandic swimming pool.

So, once in a while, skip a psychology session, come to Iceland and get naked'.

Right. Or not?

Ruth Schwartz / Idaho Hot Springs

For the sheer amount of geothermal in Iceland, naturism is frowned upon... we've only had the chance a couple of times.

Then on the opposite scale: a couple which fund their travelling by selling pictures of themselves clothesless. Yahoo (Sep. 7) note that their travails also include Iceland. A Patreon account -no less- for proof.

Finally for something totally different.

A swim-in cinema?

'SWIM-IN SCREENINGS

RIFFs popular SWIM-IN CINEMA took place in the pool of Sundhöll Reykjavíkur'.

Better views are to be had outside:

adamabellafontemartova

#thelittlethings #naturelovers #sunfollower