1. Kusatsu Onsen
Located in the Japanese Alps, Kusatsu Onsen is a natural hot spring resort town that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The hot springs are believed to have healing properties and are said to have been used by samurai warriors for centuries. The town has over 20 hot spring resorts, with many offering traditional ryokans and relaxing baths. Kusatsu Onsen is also known for its beautiful cherry blossom trees, which bloom in the spring. The town's unique charm lies in its traditional architecture, where old and new coexist seamlessly. For comparison, Kusatsu Onsen is often compared to the famous Japanese hot spring resort of Koyasan.
2. Terma Verde
Located in Chile, Terma Verde is a natural hot spring resort that offers breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains. The hot springs are believed to have healing properties and are said to have been used by indigenous communities for centuries. The resort features 16 hot spring pools with temperatures ranging from 28-38 degrees Celsius, as well as a stunning scenic railway that takes visitors on a thrilling ride through the mountains. Terma Verde is also known for its beautiful gardens and wildlife, including pumas, eagles, and condors. The resort's unique feature lies in its eco-friendly architecture, designed to blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings.
3. Polynesian Spa
Located in Rotorua, New Zealand, Polynesian Spa is a world-renowned natural hot spring resort that offers stunning views of Lake Rotorua. The hot springs are believed to have healing properties and are said to have been used by Maori warriors for centuries. The spa features several thermal pools with temperatures ranging from 38-45 degrees Celsius, as well as a stunning scenic walkway along the lake's shore. Polynesian Spa is also known for its traditional Māori cultural performances and relaxation treatments. The resort's unique feature lies in its geothermal hot spring water, which is rich in minerals and said to have healing properties.
4. Orvieto Thermal Baths
Located in Italy, Orvieto Thermal Baths is a natural hot spring resort that offers stunning views of the Umbrian countryside. The hot springs are believed to have healing properties and are said to have been used by ancient Etruscan warriors for centuries. The baths feature several thermal pools with temperatures ranging from 32-40 degrees Celsius, as well as a stunning scenic walkway through the town's historic center. Orvieto Thermal Baths is also known for its beautiful art nouveau architecture and traditional Italian cuisine. The resort's unique feature lies in its underground tunnels, where visitors can stroll through ancient aqueducts and Roman ruins.
5. Glenfall House Spa
Located in Scotland, Glenfall House Spa is a natural hot spring resort that offers stunning views of the Cairngorms National Park. The hot springs are believed to have healing properties and are said to have been used by Scottish warriors for centuries. The spa features several thermal pools with temperatures ranging from 30-38 degrees Celsius, as well as a stunning scenic walkway through the forest. Glenfall House Spa is also known for its traditional Scottish cuisine and relaxation treatments. The resort's unique feature lies in its geothermal hot spring water, which is rich in minerals and said to have healing properties, making it one of the most natural and authentic hot spring experiences in Europe.