From minimalist Nordic spas to remote volcanic pools, hot springs are bubbling up as one of the biggest travel trends in wellness. Once considered niche or traditional, thermal bathing is now at the forefront of modern self-care — and it's reshaping the way we travel.
In this article, we explore why thermal travel is on the rise, who it appeals to, and where to experience this rejuvenating ritual around the world.
What Is Thermal Travel?
Thermal travel refers to wellness-focused trips built around natural hot springs, geothermal spas, or therapeutic bathing rituals. While thermal bathing has ancient roots — from Roman thermae to Japanese onsen — today’s travellers are embracing it in fresh, innovative ways.
Rather than rushing from one tourist site to another, thermal travel invites you to slow down, soak, and restore.
Why Hot Springs Are Trending in Wellness Travel
Nature Meets Nurture
Hot springs offer a direct connection to the natural world. Whether tucked into mountain valleys or perched on ocean cliffs, these mineral-rich waters offer physical and mental benefits — often without the need for screens, schedules, or stimulation.
A Return to Ritual
In a fast-paced world, the simple act of bathing has become a powerful ritual. From Icelandic steam baths to Japanese rotenburo, travellers are seeking meaningful, sensory experiences rooted in culture and healing traditions.
Digital Detox in Disguise
Unlike gym hotels or urban spas, many hot spring destinations offer a true retreat from digital overload. Thermal resorts in rural or remote settings naturally encourage rest, reflection, and reconnection — with yourself and with others.
Low-Impact, High-Reward
Thermal travel aligns with the values of modern conscious travellers. It’s often more sustainable, slower-paced, and rooted in local culture and community — making it an ideal choice for eco-minded explorers.
It’s Not Just About the Bath
Today’s thermal destinations pair hot springs with gourmet dining, forest bathing, wine tasting, massage, hiking, and even cold plunges and saunas — transforming a simple soak into a full-spectrum wellness journey.
Who Is Embracing Thermal Travel?
Solo travellers looking for restorative getaways
Couples after romantic spa breaks in nature
Wellness seekers focused on mind–body balance
Foodies combining spa time with local gastronomy
Retreat-goers craving slow travel experiences
→ What unites them all? A desire to feel good — physically, emotionally, and energetically.
Where to Experience it
Japan: For timeless onsen culture, mountainside ryokan, and tranquil rituals
Iceland: For dramatic landscapes and outdoor geothermal lagoons
Italy: For historic spa towns like Saturnia and hot springs under the stars
New Zealand: For volcanic pools and Maori healing traditions
Austria & Slovenia: For alpine spas with sauna circuits and snow-dusted scenery
Mexico & Costa Rica: For tropical thermal springs amid jungles and volcanoes
The Future of Thermal Travel
As wellness tourism continues to grow, thermal travel is evolving too. Think minimalist eco-resorts, gender-inclusive spaces, innovative bathing rituals, and destination-worthy design.
Expect more spa circuits, more variety (like beer baths or sound therapy pools), and more focus on the transformative power of water.
Final Thoughts
Hot springs aren’t just a place to relax — they’re becoming a new way to travel. By blending wellness, culture, and nature, thermal travel offers a meaningful antidote to burnout and a deeper connection to the places we visit.
So whether you’re soaking beneath the northern lights or unwinding in a jungle spring, one thing’s clear: hot springs are having a moment — and it’s one worth immersing yourself
Curious about planning your own thermal escape??
We create tailor-made spa travel itineraries designed to help you slow down, explore, and feel amazing — wherever the waters take you.
Get in touch today to start designing your ideal hot springs holiday.