Virginia’s Geothermal Gems

Nestled in the verdant mountains and rolling hills of Virginia lie hidden gems – natural hot springs.

1. Warm Springs at The Omni Homestead Resort (Bath County)

Tucked away in a town called Hot Springs, the Omni Homestead Resort in Virginia is a historic accommodation that has attracted visitors from near and far for centuries.

Located in the Allegheny Mountains, the resort has been a wellness retreat since the 18th century. The main attraction is the naturally heated mineral springs, which have been used for relaxation and healing for centuries. The resort itself is a National Historic Landmark, offering a blend of modern amenities and historical charm.

The resort features the renowned Jefferson Pools, named after Thomas Jefferson, who visited in 1818. These pools are fed by natural hot springs and are known for their soothing and therapeutic properties.

Steeped in history, the Jefferson Pools were frequented by President Thomas Jefferson, who believed in the therapeutic properties of the mineral waters. The naturally formed pools offer a more secluded soaking experience compared to Warm Springs. Designated quiet areas allow for a peaceful retreat amidst the natural beauty.

Secret Tip: Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot by the pool.

Dance lessons, arts and crafts, engaging kids' activities, and movies ensure endless entertainment for the little ones.

There are coed bathing times, where families with kids may use either the men's or women's (larger of the two) pools. Later in the day the schedule switches to adults-only, and this is also a clothing-optional time, where the sexes are segregated to their respective bath houses

Thrill-seekers can partake in skeet/trap shooting, embark on guided hiking expeditions, try their hand at archery, or even take ski lessons during the winter months.

Water Quality: 5 stars (Crystal clear, naturally filtered)

Ease of Access: 5 stars (Easily accessible by paved road)

Ability to Be Alone: 2 stars (Busy atmosphere, large shared pools)

Water Temperature: 4 stars (Comfortable soaking temperature)

Health Benefits: 4 stars (Noticeable mineral content, potential benefits for muscle relaxation)

Nearby Amenities: 5 stars (Luxury resort with spa services, restaurants, lodging, and various recreational activities)

2. Sweet Chalybeate Springs (Alleghany County)

Sweet Chalybeate Springs, also known as the Red Sweet Springs, Sweet Chalybeate Hotel and Sweet Chalybeate Springs Lodge. Sweet Springs is a former springs resort, sanatorium, hospital and nursing home in rural eastern West Virginia. Sadly it’s now on the list of abandoned properties but was once a favorite in the region.

Dr. Burke wrote that the bath was chalybeate or iron-containing and therefore a powerful agent in cases that benefit from a tonic treatment. He felt that 95% of the bathers would think the Red-Sweet Springs were more powerful as a tonic applied to the skin than the Sweet Springs.

Famous visitors to Sweet Springs included George and Martha Washington, General Lafayette, Jerome Bonaparte, Patrick Henry, Robert E. Lee, and Presidents Pierce and Fillmore.

Toward that goal, Smith founded the Sweet Springs Management Company to bottle and sell Sweet Spring’s water under the Sweet Sommer label. The water, noted for its fresh taste and natural carbonation, was ranked among the top 10 at the International Water Tasting Festival in January 2008.

Water Quality: 4 stars (Minor sediment, slight metallic taste)

Ease of Access: 4 stars (Short, easy walk on a well-maintained path)

Ability to Be Alone: 5 stars (Secluded pools along the creek)

Water Temperature: 4 stars (Comfortable soaking temperature)

Health Benefits: 4 stars (Noticeable mineral content, high iron content)

Nearby Amenities: 2 stars (Limited amenities, closest town with basic necessities is Covington)