7 of Austria's Best Alpine Hot Springs
Nestled amid snow-capped peaks and rolling green valleys, Austria whispers enticing tales of rejuvenation and relaxation. One way to experience this magic firsthand is by immersing yourself in the country's famed natural hot springs, known as Thermen. From ancient Roman bathhouses to modern spa havens, each thermal spring offers a unique blend of history, culture, and mineral-rich waters, promising an unforgettable escape. Consider purchasing a thermen pass for access to multiple thermes during your stay.
Bad Gastein
Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Belle Époque at Bad Gastein, a historic spa town boasting magnificent architecture and a rich thermal bathing tradition dating back to Roman times. Visit the Felsentherme, a magnificent Art Nouveau bathhouse carved into the mountainside, or experience the Felsenburgbahn, a funicular railway transporting you to a breathtaking clifftop thermal bath.
The thermal waters of Bad Gastein are renowned for their high radon content, believed to have therapeutic benefits for joint pain, respiratory conditions, and skin ailments. Additionally, sulfur contributes to detoxification and improved circulation, while sodium regulates blood pressure and hydrates the body.
Escape the crowds and head to the Alpentherme Gastein, a modern spa complex offering stunning mountain views and diverse thermal pools.
Best Time to Go: Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer comfortable temperatures and vibrant landscapes. Enjoy winter skiing and post-slope soaks (December-February), but be prepared for cold outdoor temperatures.
Aqua Dome, Tyrol
Futuristic Sanctuary: This iconic, glass-domed structure houses a modern spa complex nestled amidst the breathtaking Ötztal Valley. Take in panoramic mountain views while soaking in the warm thermal waters, or indulge in innovative treatments like cryo-saunas and underwater massages.
Aqua Dome's waters are rich in sodium chloride and sulfate, a unique blend known for its therapeutic properties. This combination promotes relaxation, soothes muscle tension, and aids in skin rejuvenation.
Secret Tip: Arrive early to enjoy the sunrise over the mountains from the rooftop infinity pool.
Best Time to Go: Summer (June-August) offers pleasant temperatures and outdoor activities, while winter (December-March) boasts snowy landscapes and après-ski relaxation in the Therme.
Therme Wien
Experience the perfect blend of history and modern luxury at Therme Wien, Europe's largest city spa complex. Relax in spacious indoor and outdoor thermal pools, explore historic Roman baths, or indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments.
The thermal waters of Therme Wien are rich in sulfur and sodium chloride, offering a refreshing soak with potential benefits for skin health, circulation, and muscle relaxation.
Secret Tip: Visit on a Thursday evening for "Ladies' Night" for an exclusive women-only experience.
Best Time to Go: Enjoy year-round access, with vibrant city life in spring and summer (April-September) and festive charm during winter (December-February).
Rogner Bad Blumau
Designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, this whimsical, organic-shaped complex offers a unique blend of art and wellness. Soak in thermal pools nestled amidst cascading waterfalls, explore hidden grottos, and indulge in treatments inspired by nature.
The thermal waters of Rogner Bad Blumau are rich in sulfur, calcium, and magnesium, offering a potent blend for detoxification, relaxation, and improved bone health.
Secret Tip: Book a stay in the "Thermal Rogner Haus", where each room has its own private thermal bath.
Best Time to Go: Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful landscapes. Summer (July-August) can be hot, while winter (December-March) brings a festive atmosphere and fewer crowds.
Alpentherme Ehrenberg, Tyrol
Located high in the mountains, Alpentherme Ehrenberg offers breathtaking views and a unique bathing experience. Relax in the various pools, including an outdoor infinity pool with panoramic vistas, or explore the saunas and steam rooms.
Alpentherme Ehrenberg's waters are rich in sodium chloride, promoting relaxation and muscle recovery. Sulfate contributes to detoxification and joint health, while calcium supports bone health.
Secret Tip: Visit on a Friday evening for "Nacht der Sinne" (Night of the Senses), featuring extended hours, special light shows, and live music.
Best Time to Go: Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be pleasant, while winter provides a unique experience with snow-covered mountains.
Therme Geinberg, Upper Austria
This thermal spa caters to all ages, with various pools, slides, and children's areas. Relax in the mineral-rich waters, enjoy the saunas and steam rooms, or let the kids splash in the fun pools.
Therme Geinberg's waters are rich in sodium chloride, promoting relaxation and muscle recovery. Sulfate contributes to detoxification and joint health, while calcium supports bone health.
Secret Tip: Visit during the summer for special events like "Therme Kino" (outdoor movie nights) or "Therme Beach" (beach volleyball tournaments).
Best Time to Go: Spring and summer offer ideal temperatures for enjoying the outdoor pools and activities. Autumn can be pleasant, while winter provides a warm escape from the cold.
Badeschloss Spa
The Badechloss thermal spa is located right on the legendary Straubingerplatz in the heart of Bad Gastein.
The Alpine Swim Club was built in 1791 amidst a breathtaking backdrop. At the Bad Gastein Waterfall, the former bathhouse on Straubinger Platz has seen the comings and goings of significant personalities over time. Today you can enjoy views from a rooftop infinity pool or the three saunas.
The focus is on the holistic approach, where body (e.g. massages, courses, outdoor activities), mind (yoga, floating meditation, breathing techniques) and healthy nutrition (superfood bar, nutritional supplements, nutritional advice) are considered and strengthened equally. Always in harmony with the powerful nature, that surrounds the bath castle.
The appeal of the waters of Bad Gastein is that they contain low levels of radon, a radioactive element that, while dangerous when inhaled, is also used — in small, supervised doses — to treat rheumatic diseases. For those interested, the hotel can organize sessions at the Gasteiner Heilstollen, a nearby health center that offers controlled radon baths.
Secret Tip: Try out nearby hiking and skiing areas such as Bad Hofgastein, Schlossalm-Angertal-Stubnerkogel, Sportgastein, Graukogel, and Dorfgastein-Großarltal are perfect for this.
Best Time to Go: Spring and summer offer ideal temperatures for enjoying the outdoor pools and activities. Autumn can be pleasant, while winter provides a warm escape from the cold.
With over 350 kilometers of hiking trails, there are countless opportunities. Whether it's the breathtaking Liechtenstein Gorge, the serene Reedsee, the world's largest ice cave, or Europe's largest grass mountain, everything is nearby and easily accessible. Paragliding, the Flying Waters Zip Line, a helicopter tour, or rafting in rushing mountain streams – delve into your holiday adventure and embrace unique experiences from both the air and the water.
Are you traveling in other parts of Europe? Take a look at more hot springs in the United Kingdom, Poland, Albania, Serbia, Romania, Austria, Greece, Italy, and Spain.
