COLD OUTSIDE? All the more reason to luxuriate in some warm mineral-laced waters. Take the plunge into these five remarkable hot springs in Canada and around the world.
Liard River Hot Springs, B.C.
The second-largest natural hot springs in Canada is just off the Alaska Highway in northern British Columbia. This hot pool, which ranges in temperature from 420C to 520C, is surrounded by a frosty white boreal forest. A boardwalk leads to the pool, passing through a warm-water swamp that supports diverse plants and local wildlife.
Banff Upper Hot Springs, Alberta.
Canada’s most historic and highest-elevation hot springs offer healing mineral-rich geothermal waters that come with splendid views of Bow Valley and Mount Rundle. The bathhouse onsite is a federal heritage building with descriptive signage highlighting the history of these iconic springs.
Blue Lagoon, Iceland.
The bright milky blue of Iceland’s renowned Blue Lagoon contrasts with the stark black volcanic landscape in Grindavík, about 45 minutes from Reykjavík. Steam rises from the 370C–400C blend of heated saltwater and freshwater—a mineral-rich by-product of the nearby geothermal power plant.
Pamukkale, Turkiye.
Known for its brilliant white travertine marble pools brimming with striking blue thermal waters, Pamukkale (Turkish for “cotton castle”) is one of the country’s most popular destinations. The barefoot- only terraced pools are a UNESCO World Heritage site. In Cleopatra’s Pool, a.k.a. the Antique Pool, you’ll find Doric columns that tumbled into the water as a result of an earthquake in the 7th century. Allegedly, this is where Cleopatra liked to take a relaxing dip.
Aqua Dome Spa, Austria.
It’s all about Alpine wellness at the futuristic Aqua Dome Spa, about an hour’s drive from Innsbruck. The site features 12 thermal baths and seven saunas with a full relaxation menu underneath a crystal-faceted glass dome, and, outdoors, spectacular views of the Ötztal Alps. There’s a kid-friendly area with a waterfall and water slides.
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