There’s something wonderfully grounding about soaking in thermal waters, surrounded by nature, steam curling into the air, and time slowing to an unhurried trickle. But how do you turn that dreamy hot spring vision into a real-life holiday? Whether you’re a long-time thermal enthusiast or simply craving some well-earned self-care, here’s how to plan the perfect hot spring escape — with a little help from us, of course.
1. Choose your perfect destination
Start by asking yourself: What kind of hot spring holiday are you after?
- Craving adventure and jungles? Costa Rica’s steamy volcanic springs near Arenal Volcano are ideal, with lush rainforest, zip-lining, and wildlife on your doorstep.
- Longing for snowy mountain views? Japan’s onsens pair perfectly with ski resorts and traditional ryokan hospitality.
- Want European elegance? Think Roman baths in Italy, chic thermal retreats in France, or Austria’s alpine spa hotels.
- Need something dramatic? Iceland's geothermal landscapes are unmatched for raw, untamed beauty.
- Fancy a road trip with soaks? The USA — especially states like Colorado, California, and Utah — is full of wild springs, desert spas, and scenic routes that connect them all.
If you're unsure which destination suits you best, don't worry — that's our speciality.
2. Pick the right time of year
Hot spring holidays are a year-round joy, but the feel changes with the seasons:
- Winter: Ideal for snowy settings — think steamy soaks under a frost-covered forest canopy.
- Spring/Autumn: Best for balance — fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures, and beautiful scenery.
- Summer: Avoid peak heat unless your destination has cooler mountain air (or cold plunge pools!)
We’ll help you time it right so you’re not melting in midsummer or missing out in the off-season.
3. Find your travel rhythm
Are you the "daily dip and slow afternoons" type, or do you want to combine bathing with activities like hiking, wine-tasting, or cultural day trips?
A well-balanced itinerary makes all the difference. We’ll help you decide how often you want to soak, and what to do in between, so you get the rejuvenating effects without overpacking your schedule.
4. Choose the right kind of spa
Not all hot springs are created equal — and that’s a good thing!
- Love luxury? Go for a thermal hotel with private soaking tubs, saunas, and massage options.
- Prefer nature? Wild springs and mountain pools might be your style.
- Like history with your healing waters? Look for traditional bathhouses and ancient springs with stories to tell.
We know just the places — and the secret gems that don’t show up in the first five pages of Google.
5. Pack with purpose
There’s more to packing than just a swimsuit (though yes, bring a good one!). Other essentials:
- Quick-drying towel or robe
- Flip-flops or water shoes
- A waterproof bag for wet items
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
- A book or journal for the slower moments
Oh, and don’t forget your sense of wonder — hot spring travel tends to bring that out.
We’re here to help.
Whether you're dreaming of Costa Rica’s jungle baths, Japan’s snowy onsen towns, or somewhere you’ve never heard of yet, we’re here to craft a journey around the kind of hot spring holiday you need.
Every trip we design is completely bespoke — carefully curated to match your pace, your passions, and your budget. If you’re ready to explore the world one soak at a time, we’d love to help.
👉 Get in touch with Portrait Travel to start planning your perfect bathing escape.