13 Incredible Hot Springs Around the World You’ll Want to Dive Into  

Picture this: you’re soaking in steamy, mineral-rich waters, surrounded by the stunning beauty of nature. Hot springs help you unwind and offer several wellness advantages, including stress reduction and better circulation while flushing out toxins. According to the International Spa Association, more than 51% of spa visits in the U.S. are focused on wellness therapies, including soaking in hot springs—a testament to their growing popularity.  

Hot springs, also known as geothermal pools, form when underground water is heated by Earth’s geothermal energy and surfaces enriched with minerals. These naturally heated baths have fascinated humans for centuries, acting as places of healing, relaxation, and cultural significance. Here is a curated list of 13 hot springs worldwide that deserve a spot on your bucket list.

Rotorua Hot Springs – North Island, New Zealand  

Rotorua, often dubbed the “Sulfur City,” is New Zealand’s geothermal capital. It has an incredible array of hot springs, geysers, and bubbling mud pools.  

The Polynesian Spa at Rotorua combines Māori cultural traditions with therapeutic geothermal waters enriched in minerals like sulfur and silica. According to the spa, the water enhances skin health and offers unparalleled relaxation.

Manikaran Hot Springs – Himachal Pradesh, India  

Located in the serene Parvati Valley, the Manikaran Hot Springs are spiritual and culturally significant in Hinduism and Sikhism. The hot springs maintain a high temperature, often described as almost boiling, providing a warm contrast to the cooler outside temperatures, especially during winter.  

The high sulfur content promotes healing, addressing arthritis and muscle pain. The springs are adjacent to temples and gurudwaras so that you can combine a therapeutic soak with fascinating cultural exploration.  

Glenwood Springs – Colorado, USA  

Glenwood Springs in Colorado is home to one of the world’s largest mineral hot springs pools, spanning over two city blocks. With its array of therapeutic features, including an “iron spring,” it attracts around 400,000 visitors annually, as reported by the City of Glenwood Springs, Colorado. 

The waters here are naturally rich in minerals like boron and potassium, believed to boost energy levels and improve mood. It’s a family-friendly getaway with a scenic backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.

Hot Water Beach – Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand  

A beach that acts as its geothermal spa? Welcome to Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your hot tub in the sand! Here, underground geothermal activity creates pools of warm water as high as 147°F, as confirmed by Discover New Zealand.  

The best time to experience this natural phenomenon is within two hours on either side of low tide. Bring a shovel, and enjoy the novelty of building your beachside spa.  

Saturnia – Tuscany, Italy  

Since Roman times, people have enjoyed Saturnia’s thermal waters, which stay at a steady temperature of 99.5°F. At Saturnia, you can enjoy thermal soaking in limestone basins surrounded by Tuscan rolling hills.

The water contains sulfur, carbon dioxide, and bicarbonate—minerals believed to enhance skin health and detoxify the body. It’s a tranquil retreat for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.  

Lake Hévíz – Hungary  

Located in Hungary, Lake Hévíz is the largest natural thermal lake in Europe, suitable for swimming. Its 4.4-acre surface area is fed by a spring that completely replenishes the water every 85 hours, ensuring pristine conditions.  

Rich in minerals, the water is reputed for its anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxing properties. Locals and tourists alike enjoy floating in the warm waters amid tree-lined surroundings.  

Termas Geométricas – Pucon, Chile  

Hidden in the heart of Villarica National Park, Termas Geométricas features 17 thermal pools of varying temperatures, all connected by bright red wooden walkways.  

Surrounded by lush forests and natural steam vents, this set of springs is celebrated for its design and tranquil atmosphere. The 42°C water provides the perfect setting for recharging the mind and body.

Grutas Tolantongo – Hidalgo, Mexico  

Grutas Tolantongo is a hidden gem in Mexico, with thermal pools carved into the side of a mountain. Large artificial pools stand over cliffs and valleys to create fantastic landscape views.  

This destination is perfect for adventurers. The canyon features waterfalls of hot springs for relaxing and multiple caves, plus a thrilling zip line experience. It’s an all-in-one experience unlike any other.  

Huanglong – Sichuan Province, China  

Within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Huanglong’s colorful travertine pools form a staircase ascending pristine mountains. The naturally occurring turquoise and yellow hues create a breathtaking sight, paired with waters believed to improve digestion and skin health.  

The site is roughly 11,000 feet, so visitors are advised to pace themselves as they enjoy its otherworldly beauty.  

Hakone National Park – Japan  

Famed for its onsens (hot springs), Hakone National Park offers a quintessential Japanese hot spring experience. These naturally occurring geothermal baths are heated by the Hakone volcano, offering a meditative escape with views of Mount Fuji in the distance.  

Popular onsens like Tenzan and Yunessun cater to traditionalists and modern bathers, offering everything from minimalist open-air baths to family-friendly water parks. Visitors often report improved circulation and detoxification after their soak.  

Pamukkale – Denizli, Türkiye  

Translated to “cotton castle” in Turkish, Pamukkale is renowned for its stunning white travertine terraces formed by calcium carbonate deposits. The thermal springs, rich in carbonated minerals, have attracted visitors as far back as the Roman Empire.  

A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pamukkale is also home to the ancient city of Hierapolis, where visitors can explore preserved ruins after bathing in the therapeutic thermal waters.  

Banff Upper Hot Springs – Alberta, Canada  

The Canadian Rockies are home to Banff Upper Hot Springs, where visitors can relax in sustainably heated, mineral-rich waters surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery.  

Reaching a balmy 98–104°F, this facility is particularly popular among hikers and skiers looking to unwind their muscles. The site has existed since 1886, consistently attracting wellness seekers year after year.  

Blue Lagoon – Grindavík, Iceland  

Nestled in the rugged landscapes of Iceland, the Blue Lagoon is a man-made geothermal wonder created in the 1970s from the wastewater of the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power plant. With its striking milky-blue water rich in silica and algae, the lagoon maintains a toasty temperature of 98–102°F year-round.  

This unique attraction welcomes over 1 million visitors annually and offers blissful soak and skincare benefits that rejuvenate and nourish the skin. Located just 40 minutes from Keflavik Airport, it’s easily accessible for travelers looking to relax before or after their Icelandic adventures.  

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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