Hot springs that you shouldn’t miss

share | tweet | MORE |

 

Ever since ancient times hot springs have been known for their therapeutic purposes, and in addition to that they are tremendous fun as well. Hot springs are spread all around the globe, and they can always offer a moment of relaxation for the weary traveler.

Many hot and warm springs have developed bustling resorts around them, but the natural appeal and wilderness of many hot springs has been preserved for those who prefer a more authentic feel. Japan is the queen of hot springs, which are an important part of the culture, the world is full of beautiful and effective hot springs where you can have a moment of respite.

Hammam Meskoutine, Algeria

Hammam Meskoutine might not look like much from the outside, but the rather battered exterior of the town hides beautiful hot springs which have been used since Roman times. Although not much remains of the original baths (a few stones and an amphitheater which cannot be visited), the springs with their amazing stone waterfalls of Saint Couffin are really something.

What’s special about these springs (except the mineral waterfalls) is that they are among the hottest in the world – so be careful not to scald yourself.

Jigokudani Hot Springs, Japan

You’ve surely seen pictures of Japanese snow monkey taking a dip in a hot spring surrounded by snow. Among Japan’s thousands of hot springs, this one is unique in that you will be able to share a hot spring with not only your friends, but also some friendly monkeys.

Onsen, or Japanese hot springs, are special in that they also include the traditional bathing facilities as well, and there is a certain etiquette which must be respected by all guests (wearing a yukata, no swimsuits, etc.).

Hot water beach, New Zealand

Rather then a hot spring, this beach in Waikato is a place where you can build your own hot tub. All you have to do is take a shovel and dig a comfortable sized hole, then simply wait for it to fill with hot, mineral water two hours before and after the low tide.

The holes are infused with water from underground hot springs, and the phenomenon is perfectly natural. These hot springs are free (except for a backache if you’re not used to digging), so the beach will most likely be quite populous, especially in summer.

Chena Hot Springs, Alaska

The hot springs resort on Lake Rock has been functioning for over a century, and it’s easy so see why, once your there. The scenery is simply breath-taking, what with the surrounding forest which turns golden in autumn. At night, you can see the aurora borealis while you’re sitting in the pools, especially from September to March.

Thermae, Bath, England

Bath has been a hot springs resort since Roman times, and you can still see the ruins around the thermal pools. The beautiful Georgian architecture of the city is a great backdrop for a long, relaxing soak. Bath is the only hot spring in England, and the water surfaces scalding hot, but it is a comfortable 93°F in the Cross Bath, rooftop Royal Bath, Hot Bath and others.

You might also like

share | tweet | more |

 

Leave a comment on Hot springs that you shouldn’t miss

Enter your comment below, or Trackback from your own blog. You can also subscribe to these comments via RSS
 

Leave a comment:

* your name

* your email address (will not be published)

your website

 

*=required