The Best Bathing Spaces Around the World
Bathing isn’t just about relaxation—it’s a ritual, a tradition, and a connection to the natural world. Here are some of the most beautiful, soul-nourishing places to soak around the globe
1. Nozawa Onsen Village – Japan
Tucked away in the Japanese Alps, Nozawa Onsen is a traditional hot spring village famous for its 13 free public baths ("soto-yu") fed by natural, mineral-rich thermal waters. Wander the cobblestone streets, soak in centuries-old baths, and experience authentic Japanese bathing culture at its purest.
2. The Istana – Bali, Indonesia
Perched on the cliffs of Uluwatu, The Istana is a luxurious wellness retreat blending ocean views with powerful healing therapies. Think infrared saunas, ocean-facing ice baths, contrast therapy rooms and meditation caves — all designed to reset your body and mind with nature as the backdrop.
Tip: ensure you head there for sunset and then spend the night bathing under the stars.
3. Peninsula Hot Springs – Mornington Peninsula, VIC, Australia
Less than two hours from Melbourne, Peninsula Hot Springs offers over 70 bathing and wellness experiences, from natural geothermal mineral pools to private hilltop tubs. It's the ultimate way to soak, slow down, and reconnect — especially during their twilight bathing sessions under the stars.
Tip: make sure you try the sulphur showers.
4. Blue Lagoon – Iceland
Set in an otherworldly volcanic landscape, the Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa where milky blue, mineral-rich waters are naturally heated. Rich in silica and algae, it’s famous for its healing benefits to the skin — and the contrast of hot water against Iceland’s cool air feels totally surreal.
5. Termas Geométricas – Chile
Hidden deep within the lush forest of the Chilean Andes, Termas Geométricas offers 20+ natural hot spring pools connected by bright red wooden walkways. Fed by volcanic springs and surrounded by misty cliffs and dense greenery, it’s one of the most magical places to completely immerse in nature.
6. Hells Gate Geothermal Spa – Rotorua, New Zealand
A sacred Māori site, Hells Gate offers volcanic mud baths and sulphur spas naturally heated by the earth. It's raw, earthy, and completely unforgettable — one of the most powerful nature bathing experiences in the world.
7. Eringer Hotel Thermal Baths – Val d’Hérens, Switzerland
At 2,000 meters high in the Swiss Alps, the Eringer Hotel features spectacular outdoor thermal pools fed by pure alpine springs. Soak in steaming water surrounded by panoramic snowy peaks — it's luxurious, serene, and deeply grounding.
8. Heaven & Hell – Dolomites, Italy
Located at an altitude of 2,100 meters, this unique spa concept at Alpe di Siusi brings you into "Heaven" (relaxing saunas and wellness zones) and "Hell" (intense heat experiences) — all overlooking the jagged peaks of the Dolomites. It's a raw, powerful, and stunning experience of bathing with nature’s drama all around you.
