Take it from a Canadian- winter is awesome, but it can also be a major pain in butt. With this major polar vortex that many of us in North America are feeling, we think it’s time to heat things up. It’s the perfect time for a winter vacation to indulge in a relaxing hot spring. We’ve put together a list of the top 10 hot springs from around the world for your next winter getaway.
#1: Blue Lagoon
Reykjavik, Iceland
Treat yourself with a trip to famed Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa in Reykjavik, Iceland. One of the most visited attractions in Iceland, Blue Lagoon is known for its vibrant blue waters ranging from temperatures of 37-40 degrees. Use the Blue Lagoon mud mask (your skin will thank you for it) and unwind surrounded by lush wilderness and a stunning waterfall.
#2: Volando Urai Hot Spring Spa & Resort
Taipei, Taiwan
Head to Wulai, just outside of Taipei, Taiwan and relax at Volando Urai Hot Spring Spa & Resort. Enjoy a moment of solitude with a private room or opt to take in views of the forest from the open-air hot spring. Soak away the stress in mineral-rich warm waters before delighting in an afternoon tea.
#3: Hue Thanh Tan Hot Spring
Hue, Vietnam
Escape the snow and head out on a winter vacation in Vietnam. Spend a day at Thanh Tan Hot Springs, just outside of Hue and immerse yourself in a jungle paradise. Soak away in hot waters, boasting sulfur and calcium, while tropical plants surround you.
#4: Kurokawa Onsen
Kumamoto, Japan
Visit one of Japan’s most scenic hot spring towns, Kurokawa Onsen in Kumamoto. Walk through this picturesque village located in a forested valley and see old style houses and onsens. Enter historic, public baths or take a break at one of the many private bath houses.
#5: Pamukkale Hot Springs
Antalya, Turkey
Behold Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Antalya, Turkey. This surreal landmark is a travertine terrace formed of limestone with pools of mineral spring water. Take a dip in these stunning baths of around 36 degrees and marvel at the breathtaking sights.
#6: Saturnia Thermal Springs
Tuscany, Italy
Stop by Saturnia Thermal Springs, historical hot springs in Tuscany, Italy. Do as the Romans did (and still do!) and bathe in these striking thermal springs. Take advantage of the free entrance free and waters that reach about 38 degrees. The sulfuric water is known locally, to have therapeutic properties.
#7: Kobe Arima Hot Springs
Kobe, Japan
Journey to the hot springs village of Arima in Kobe, Japan. Chill out and warm up in the signature red-gold waters at Gekkoen Korokan Onsen. Take in the beauty of Arima from the open-air bath, abundant in iron, and ease your sore muscles in the healing waters.
#8: Termas Geometricas
Pucon, Chile
Hidden in a forest, you can take a dip in these warm waters entirely surrounded by lush jungle. Walk along bridges that lead to 17 different hot spring pools.
#9: Emerald Pool and Tiger Cave
Krabi, Thailand
Dive into vibrant, crystal-clear waters at the Emerald Pool before getting cozy in the nearby hot springs. Let the minerals work magic on your skin before trekking to the Tiger Cave Temple where you can scale a staircase to the top of a mountain to see a golden pagoda.
#10: Chena Hot Springs
Alaska, United States
Experience the northern lights phenomenon from the warmth and comfort of a hot spring. Marvel at the rocky peaks and wilderness around the hot spring and look up to appreciate the vibrant aurora borealis lights.
