12 Dreamy Hot Springs Around The World That Are Closer Than You Think

There’s something magical about slipping into steaming, mineral-rich waters, feeling the warmth seep into your muscles as the world around you fades away. Whether hidden in lush forests, nestled against snow-capped peaks, or bubbling in the middle of a volcanic landscape, hot springs offer a natural escape from the ordinary. While some geothermal pools have become famous tourist destinations, others remain off-the-beaten-path sanctuaries, waiting for you to discover their restorative magic. Here are 12 breathtaking hot springs—some well-loved, some secret gems—that you don’t have to travel to the ends of the earth to experience.

1. Chena Hot Springs – Alaska, USA

Set deep in the wilds of Alaska, Chena Hot Springs offers a dreamy blend of warmth and winter wonderland magic. Just 60 miles from Fairbanks, this geothermal oasis is especially mesmerizing in winter, when the northern lights dance overhead, and the surrounding landscape is blanketed in snow. The steamy, mineral-rich waters hover around 106°F (41°C), making them perfect for soothing sore muscles after a day of dog sledding or hiking. Bonus: Chena Hot Springs is home to an incredible Aurora Ice Museum, where you can sip a martini in an ice glass after your soak.

2. Banff Upper Hot Springs – Alberta, Canada

Imagine soaking in a steaming pool of thermal water while gazing at the majestic peaks of the Canadian Rockies—that’s the experience Banff Upper Hot Springs delivers. Found in Banff National Park, these natural mineral waters have been attracting visitors since the 1880s. The water, which flows from the depths of the Sulphur Mountain Thrust Fault, is rich in sodium, calcium, magnesium, and sulfate, known for their muscle-relaxing and skin-rejuvenating properties. After your soak, explore the charming mountain town of Banff or embark on a scenic gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain for breathtaking views.

3. Terme di Saturnia – Tuscany, Italy

In the heart of the rolling Tuscan countryside, Terme di Saturnia is a storybook-perfect hot spring that’s been flowing for over 3,000 years. The naturally terraced pools, formed by cascading white limestone deposits, create a dreamy, otherworldly atmosphere. The warm, sulfur-rich waters maintain a constant temperature of 99°F (37°C), making them ideal for a relaxing, therapeutic soak. Legend has it that these thermal waters originated from Jupiter’s thunderbolt, adding to their mystical allure. After your dip, explore quaint nearby villages like Pitigliano and Montemerano for a true taste of Tuscany.

4. Kerosene Creek – Rotorua, New Zealand

For a wild and free hot spring experience, Kerosene Creek is an untamed geothermal wonder. Hidden in a lush forest near Rotorua, this naturally heated river offers a serene, off-the-beaten-path soak. The water, warmed by underground volcanic activity, maintains a temperature of 100–104°F (38–40°C) as it flows over small waterfalls and rocky pools. Unlike commercialized hot springs, Kerosene Creek is free, making it a favorite for locals and adventurous travelers. Just be prepared for a bit of a trek through the bush—but the reward is a tranquil, naturally sculpted oasis.

5. Pamukkale – Turkey

Few places on Earth look as dreamlike as Pamukkale, a UNESCO-listed thermal paradise. Also known as "Cotton Castle," this natural wonder features stunning white travertine terraces filled with warm, mineral-rich water. The pools, fed by thermal springs, maintain temperatures of 95–100°F (35–38°C), making them perfect for a rejuvenating soak. Pamukkale has been a spa retreat for thousands of years, dating back to the Roman Empire. The nearby ancient city of Hierapolis still has ruins of grand Roman baths, proving that people have been indulging in these waters for centuries.

6. Blue Lagoon – Iceland

No list of dreamy hot springs is complete without Iceland’s iconic Blue Lagoon. Nestled in a lava field, this stunning milky-blue geothermal spa is rich in silica, algae, and minerals that nourish the skin and relax the body. The water, naturally heated by volcanic activity, stays around 102°F (39°C) year-round, offering an unforgettable, steamy escape in Iceland’s rugged landscapes. To make the most of your visit, try the lagoon’s signature silica mud mask and sip a refreshing Icelandic drink while floating in the warm, mineral-rich waters.

7. Dunton Hot Springs – Colorado, USA

For those seeking a luxurious yet remote hot spring escape, Dunton Hot Springs in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains offers a perfect blend of privacy, history, and five-star comfort. This former ghost town, now transformed into an upscale retreat, allows guests to bathe in natural geothermal waters while enjoying the rustic charm of a restored 1800s mining settlement. The setting feels almost surreal—log cabins, flickering lanterns, and steaming mineral-rich pools surrounded by golden aspen trees and snow-capped peaks. The resort features multiple spring-fed pools, each with its own distinct ambiance. The indoor bathhouse pool, housed in an authentic 19th-century log cabin, provides an intimate, spa-like experience. Outdoors, you can soak in a larger open-air hot spring, listening to the soothing sounds of the nearby river. For the adventurous, there’s even a natural hot spring in the middle of the Dolores River, perfect for a brisk contrast bath experience.

8. Reykjadalur Hot Springs – Iceland

For a wilder, more adventurous hot spring experience, Reykjadalur Hot Springs in Iceland’s geothermal highlands is a true hidden gem. Unlike traditional hot spring pools, Reykjadalur is a warm, naturally heated river, allowing visitors to find their perfect soaking spot along its length. To reach this untouched thermal wonder, you’ll need to embark on a scenic 45-minute hike from the town of Hveragerði. The trail takes you through steaming valleys, past bubbling mud pools, and over volcanic hills before revealing the pristine geothermal river where steam rises dramatically from the landscape. The further upstream you go, the warmer the water becomes, letting you customize your soaking experience. Unlike the famous Blue Lagoon, Reykjadalur remains unspoiled and free to visit, making it ideal for those who prefer off-the-beaten-path adventures. There are no artificial structures—just the raw beauty of Icelandic nature. While it’s breathtaking year-round, visiting in winter is an especially magical experience, with snow-covered hills contrasting against the warm, misty waters.

9. Takaragawa Onsen – Japan

Tucked away in the remote mountains of Gunma Prefecture, Takaragawa Onsen is often hailed as one of the most beautiful hot springs in Japan. Unlike many Japanese onsens, which are small and enclosed, Takaragawa is expansive and open-air, creating an experience that feels one with nature. The tranquil setting includes multiple large outdoor rotenburo (baths) set along the banks of the Takaragawa River, with wooden bridges, ancient stone lanterns, and mist-covered forests completing the fairy-tale atmosphere. The mineral-rich waters, flowing directly from geothermal sources, are known for their healing properties and stress-relieving benefits. One of the most unique aspects of Takaragawa Onsen is its mixed-gender baths, a rarity in Japan. While many onsens are strictly segregated, Takaragawa offers an inclusive soaking experience, making it perfect for couples or groups. Whether you visit during spring cherry blossom season, lush summer greenery, autumn’s fiery foliage, or winter’s snowy wonderland, this iconic onsen offers an unforgettable experience year-round.

10. Conundrum Hot Springs – Colorado, USA

If you’re up for a true wilderness adventure, few hot springs rival the untamed beauty of Conundrum Hot Springs in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. But be warned—this one requires effort. To reach these stunning alpine hot springs, you’ll need to hike 9 miles (one way) to an elevation of 11,200 feet, making it one of the most remote and challenging hot spring destinations in the U.S.. However, the reward is unparalleled. Nestled in a high-altitude valley, Conundrum Hot Springs offers crystal-clear soaking pools surrounded by towering peaks, alpine meadows, and some of the darkest night skies in the country. It’s an ideal spot for stargazing, where you can relax in warm, mineral-rich waters under the Milky Way. Due to its popularity and fragile ecosystem, a permit is required to camp near the springs, and visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles. If you’re a backcountry enthusiast seeking a hot spring experience far from civilization, this is one for the bucket list.

11. Tabacon Hot Springs – Costa Rica

Nestled in the heart of the Costa Rican jungle, Tabacón Hot Springs is a luxurious, tropical geothermal paradise. Fed by the active Arenal Volcano, these naturally heated thermal rivers and cascading pools flow through lush, tropical landscapes, creating one of the most scenic hot spring experiences in the world. Unlike traditional single-pool hot springs, Tabacón features multiple levels of natural, free-flowing thermal water, forming a network of jungle pools, waterfalls, and private soaking spots. The rich mineral content of the water is believed to soothe muscles, improve circulation, and nourish the skin, making it a true wellness retreat. Tabacón also offers full-service luxury, including spa treatments, swim-up bars, and fine dining with a view of the glowing Arenal Volcano at night. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a wellness retreat, or simply a chance to experience Costa Rica’s natural beauty, Tabacón is one of the country’s most sought-after hot spring destinations.

12. Széchenyi Thermal Baths – Budapest, Hungary

For a hot spring experience steeped in history and grandeur, the Széchenyi Thermal Baths in Budapest, Hungary, offer a perfect blend of old-world elegance and modern wellness. As Europe’s largest medicinal bath complex, Széchenyi boasts 15 indoor thermal pools and three sprawling outdoor baths, all housed within a stunning Neo-Baroque palace. The mineral-rich waters, drawn from Budapest’s natural thermal springs, are famed for their healing properties, rich in calcium, magnesium, and sulfate, known to relieve joint pain and improve circulation. While soaking, you’ll be surrounded by ornate columns, intricate mosaics, and century-old architecture, making you feel like royalty from a bygone era. A unique highlight of Széchenyi Baths is the outdoor chess-playing thermal pool, where locals engage in heated matches while immersed in warm water, even in sub-zero winter temperatures. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing soak, a lively social atmosphere, or a cultural experience, Széchenyi offers one of the most unforgettable spa experiences in the world.

Soak, Unwind, and Discover the Magic of Hot Springs

There’s something undeniably magical about slipping into a steaming natural hot spring, feeling the warm, mineral-rich waters melt away stress while immersing yourself in breathtaking landscapes. Whether it’s a remote alpine soak beneath a star-filled sky, a tropical retreat surrounded by lush rainforest, or an ancient thermal bath steeped in history, these dreamy hot springs offer far more than just relaxation—they are portals to nature, wellness, and culture. From hidden geothermal rivers in Iceland to jungle-cloaked volcanic springs in Costa Rica, these destinations prove that the perfect escape is closer than you think. Whether you crave adventure, luxury, or solitude, there’s a soothing, mineral-infused paradise waiting for you.