Hot springs are thermal wonders that promise not only warmth but also breathtaking scenery that captivates the soul, and adds some magic to your feed. From the picturesque landscapes of Iceland to the serene valleys of Japan, here are some of the world’s most beautiful hot springs.
Kheerganga, India
A roughly four-hour hike from the village of Barsheni in India’s stunning Parvati Valley leads to the hot springs of Kheerganga. The trek is quite rewarding, considering you arrive at a meadow believed to be the site where the Hindu god Shiva meditated for 3,000 years. Here, immerse yourself in the pools (there are two separate areas for men and women) while enjoying panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Dunton Hot Springs, Colorado
Tucked away in the San Juan Mountains, Colorado’s Dunton Hot Springs is a log cabin town of sorts, blending rustic charm with top-notch amenities. With cross-country ski trails designed by an Olympic Nordic skier and saloon-style dining, the main draw at this exclusive resort is the namesake hot springs. Enjoy the steamy waters in a restored 19th-century bathhouse with various indoor and outdoor pools.
Chinoike Jigoku, Japan
Nestled in the scenic hot spring haven of Beppu in Japan, Chinoike Jigoku, or the “Blood Pond Hell,” stands as a captivating geological marvel. Renowned for its striking crimson-hued waters, the spring’s unique colouration is attributed to the high iron content in its mineral-rich composition. Surrounded by billowing steam vents and set against a backdrop of lush greenery, Chinoike Jigoku presents a surreal landscape fit for a sci-fi movie.
Pamukkale, Turkey
The stunning 17-tiered thermal pools of Pamukkale—which translates to “cotton castle” in Turkish—stand out as a stunning example of the beauty found in hot springs. These serene pools are encased within limestone formations that perfectly mirror the sky. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pamukkale shares its distinction with the nearby ancient spa town of Hierapolis, where hydrotherapy practices once accompanied religious ceremonies.
Chena Hot Springs, Alaska
About 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks is Chena Hot Springs, complemented by its own resort. Unearthed in 1905 by gold-mining siblings, the hot springs take center stage. Visitors can immerse themselves in its 104°F waters, with the added possibility of witnessing the northern lights. The resort offers various alternatives for some aquatic enjoyment, including indoor and outdoor tubs, hot tubs, and an indoor swimming pool.
Panamik, India
Panamik in Ladakh is a geothermal site renowned for its healing hot mineral waters. Found near the Nubra Valley enveloped by breathtaking Himalayan scenery, the hot springs are as serene as they can get. Visitors can immerse themselves in the warm waters, believed to possess therapeutic qualities. And the views can't be beat: The northernmost hot spring in Panamik, situated near the Siachen glacier, is a sulphur hot spring found at a height of 10,442 feet above sea level, roughly 500 feet from Leh.
Champagne Pool, New Zealand
Champagne Pool in Waiotapu, on New Zealand’s North Island, is sure to captivate you with its colorful allure. Named after the Māori term for sacred waters, the 213-foot-wide spring bubbles like Champagne due to high carbon dioxide levels. While its 167°F temperature prohibits swimming, visitors can admire the pool’s technicolor beauty that ranges from fluorescent blue-green waters to a neon orange ring of metalloid deposits. While you’re there, don’t miss other wonders nearby, including boiling mud pools and the erupting Lady Knox Geyser.
Banjar Hot Springs, Indonesia
Bali is famed for its beaches and surfs, but in the north lies a hidden gem: Banjar Hot Springs, less than a mile from Brahma Vihara Arama. It offers a unique experience with a private pool, spa, and a 50-seat outdoor restaurant. The main draw is the therapeutic waters with 26 percent sulphur content that helps rejuvenate the skin. Here, the emerald waters flow in a 6.5 foot-deep main pool, a three-foot children’s pool, and a dragon-shaped spout pool.
Blue Lagoon, Iceland
A 50-minute drive from Reykjavik, Grindavik’s Blue Lagoon boasts an otherworldly landscape of black lava rock and milky blue waters enveloped in billowing steam. Beyond its captivating visuals, the 98.6°F waters, originating from a nearby geothermal plant, offer a spa-like experience. Plus, the silica mud masks and mineral salts are great for your skin.
Széchenyi, Hungary
The Szechenyi baths stand out as a highly frequented destination in Budapest, celebrated for their serene and romantic ambience, particularly post sundown. Built in 1913, the way geothermal waters are utilised here goes back to Roman times. Set amid stunning Neo-baroque structures, these baths are situated within Budapest’s largest green park. Here, visitors can partake in an array of offerings, including massages and spa treatments in over 10 steam cabins.
Huanglong National Park, China
Situated in the northwest of Sichuan province, the entire Huanglong Valley has earned UNESCO World Heritage status. With its sizable panda population, snow-capped mountains, travertine landscapes, and hot springs, the valley is an enchanting destination. The terraced pools hold exceptionally clear water, and collectively resemble a colossal dragon winding through the mountains. Although access to the electric blue waters is restricted, visitors can enjoy a view from above by trekking a paved path or opting for a brief cable car ride.
Uunartoq Island, Greenland
South Greenland boasts numerous hot springs, but Uunartoq, an uninhabited island, is unique for having the only ones warm enough for year-round bathing. The temperatures remain inviting even in winter’s freezing months. The spring is accessible by boat from the mainland towns of Qaqortoq and Nanortalik, which cruise lines like Royal Caribbean include in their itineraries. Expect stunning views of icebergs and mountain peaks that make for an exceptional experience.
Hot Springs Cove, Canada
If you seek a private escapade coupled with a rejuvenating soak, Hot Springs Cove is the ideal place to go. Situated within Maquinna Marine Provincial Park, access to this hot spring is limited to boat or plane. Along the way, you may encounter various marine life such as sea otters, sea lions, and whales. Unwind on the rocks as the warm waterfall cascades over you. Tailor your experience by opting for cooler pools near the ocean or warmer ones closer to the waterfall for a truly delightful adventure.
Terme di Saturnia, Italy
This thermal spa is located in southern Tuscany and is famous for its Cascate del Mulino waterfalls. The site features natural hot springs with therapeutic properties. The spring water, with a temperature of nearly 98.6°C, is believed to offer health benefits. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rejuvenating experience and enhance their stay by considering accommodations at the on-site resort, which includes amenities like a sprawling golf course and spa facilities.
Kurokawa Onsen, Japan
Japan’s onsens, or natural hot springs, include a picturesque gem in Kurokawa, Kyushu’s quaint town. Offering overnight stays or day passes, visitors can access three of the 24 participating baths of their choice. The diverse options range from pools in caves to springs nestled beside snowy riverbanks. Nearby notable spots like Yamamizuki, with riverside views, and Iyashi-no-Sato Kiyashiki, featuring wooden tubs, also serve as ryokans (traditional Japanese inns)—it's a completely immersive experience.
Yumthang, India
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The geothermal attractions in Sikkim’s Yumthang Valley are known for their warm, mineral-rich waters. Nestled in the picturesque Himalayas, these hot springs offer a serene experience amid natural beauty. Visitors can soak in the soothing waters, believed to have therapeutic properties. Also known as the Valley of Flowers, Yumthang is a popular destination for those seeking both relaxation and the scenic splendor of Northeast India.
Termas Geométricas, Chile
In Chile’s Villarrica National Park, this spa boasts 17 pools, red walkways, and waterfalls. Fed by natural hot springs, the pools maintain temperatures from 95°F to 113°F all year round. Designed by architect Germán del Sol, the spa offers a visually stunning place for relaxation. Its Japanese-inspired architecture and tropical environment make it a stunning place to soothe yourself. There’s also an onsite restaurant, El Quicho, where you can fill up after your treatments.
Grand Prismatic Spring, USA
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Yellowstone’s largest and the world’s third-largest hot spring, Grand Prismatic spans about 370 feet in width and 120 feet in depth. The piercing blue and colourful rings of green, yellow and orange—the result of the thriving bacteria in the mineral-rich waters—might call out to you, but swimming here is prohibited due to the extremely high temperatures. Despite this ban, it’s still the most photographed thermal feature in the park.
A version of this article originally appeared in Condé Nast Traveller India.