There’s something undeniably magical about slipping into a steaming hot spring — the sensation of warm, mineral-rich water embracing your body, steam rising against the backdrop of mountains, forests, or stars. It’s travel at its most nourishing: immersive, sensory, slow.
For those of us drawn to mindful travel and well-being, hot springs aren’t just a stop on the itinerary — they are the itinerary. But where in the world offers the best soaking experiences? Here’s our guide to the most unforgettable destinations for a hot spring holiday, each chosen for its unique combination of natural beauty, cultural depth, and soul-soothing soakability.
Japan: The Soul of Soaking
Japan lives and breathes hot spring culture. With over 3,000 onsen spread across volcanic terrain, it’s the global capital of bathing bliss. From snow-dusted rotenburo (outdoor baths) in the mountains of Nagano, to seaside soaks in Kyushu or traditional ryokans in Hakone, bathing in Japan is a ritual of purification and deep relaxation. Expect serene landscapes, quiet etiquette, and a centuries-old reverence for water’s healing power.
🧳 Best for: Culture seekers, solo travellers, and winter wanderers.
Iceland: Wild and Otherworldly
Iceland’s geothermal waters bubble up through lava fields and glaciers, offering dramatic outdoor bathing like nowhere else. The famous Blue Lagoon near Reykjavik is just the beginning — head to the Secret Lagoon, Myvatn Nature Baths, or the brand-new Sky Lagoon for fewer crowds and more magic. It’s a place where nature hums just beneath the surface, and soaking feels both primal and luxurious.
🧳 Best for: Adventurous spirits, nature lovers, and wellness escapists.
Italy: La Dolce Soak
Think Italy’s just for pasta and piazzas? Think again. From Tuscany’s wild and free Saturnia springs to the glamorous spa towns of Ischia and the Dolomites, Italy’s thermal waters have been drawing bathers since Roman times. Soaking here is about slowing down, indulging, and embracing la dolce vita — usually followed by a long lunch and a glass of local wine.
🧳 Best for: Romantic getaways, foodies, and culture lovers.
New Zealand: The Soothing South
Home to some of the world’s most scenic landscapes, New Zealand’s hot springs are tucked into misty forests, lakesides, and alpine valleys. The Rotorua region is bubbling with geothermal activity, while the South Island offers more remote, mineral-rich soaks like Hanmer Springs or the stunning pools at Maruia.
🧳 Best for: Outdoor adventurers, road trippers, and wellness-focused families.
Chile: High Altitude Healing
If you like your hot springs with a side of drama, head to Chile. From the high-altitude Atacama to the lush forests of the Lake District, this long, volcanic country delivers rugged natural pools surrounded by soaring peaks, waterfalls, and rainforest. Termas Geométricas might just be the most beautiful bathing experience on Earth.
🧳 Best for: Off-the-beaten-track travellers, hikers, and photographers.
Türkiye: Ancient Waters, Modern Magic
Thermal bathing in Türkiye is part of a rich spa heritage that dates back to Roman times. Pamukkale’s surreal travertine terraces are world-famous, but dig a little deeper and you’ll find local hammams, natural springs, and healing waters scattered across the country — often paired with warm hospitality and ancient ruins.
🧳 Best for: History buffs, spa lovers, and seekers of something different.
Costa Rica: Jungle Baths and Volcanic Views
Costa Rica’s hot springs are all about harmony with nature. Many are tucked into tropical rainforests, heated by active volcanoes like Arenal and Rincon de la Vieja. Imagine soaking beneath a canopy of howler monkeys and hummingbirds, waterfalls rushing nearby. These springs often come paired with wellness retreats, yoga decks, and spa treatments — a perfect match for slow, restorative travel.
🧳 Best for: Eco-conscious travellers, honeymooners, and wellness retreat fans.
USA: Soaking in the Wild
The US might surprise you with its hot spring variety — from rustic, remote tubs in the wilds of Colorado and Oregon to curated spa experiences in California and Arizona. Don’t miss the mineral pools of Hot Springs, Arkansas, or the scenic wonder of Yellowstone’s geothermal basin. Whether you want an off-grid adventure or desert luxury, the USA delivers.
🧳 Best for: Road-trippers, wild bathers, and lovers of wide-open spaces.
So… Where Will You Soak?
Whether you’re craving solitude in Iceland, a cultural deep-dive in Japan, or rustic wellness in rural New Zealand, there’s a hot spring destination with your name on it.
At Feel Good Bathing, we do more than just recommend places to soak — we help you build an entire holiday around bathing. Every traveller is different. Maybe you want mountain hikes and cold plunges, or luxury spas and gentle culture. We listen, guide, and curate a tailor-made itinerary that fits your rhythm.
👉 Ready to start planning your perfect thermal getaway? Let’s find your ideal soak spot — just drop us a message or fill in the enquiry form. Your blissful bathing journey begins here. ✨