We discovered five of our favorite spas in America, and even found some of the coolest locations for hot tubs in the world. But today, we liked to extend the idea of a hot tub to some
of the most interesting natural pools in the world.
Some man-made while others are completely natural, hot springs and geothermal pools are the original hot tub. Take a look and be amazed by some of these wild hot tubs and their jaw-dropping locations.
Shirahone Onsen – Gifu Prefecture, Japan
Here’s an amazing spot in Japan that sources its hot water from natural hot springs. After a long drive up the mountain ranges of the Alps new Kamikochi, this little village has about 13 hotels to bunk at, or you can just visit for a public dip before 3 pm.
Shirahone is one of the most popular hot springs in the Alps with hot water that’s milky white and known to help relieve muscle tensions and cure a number of illnesses. Though, we recommend visiting this hot springs to relax, as the 100-some steps down to the hot spring can be a rough travel for anyone who’s not feeling too well.
The Homestead Crater – Midway, Utah
While ThermoSpas hot tubs can take only a few days to install, this warm water geothermal spring took over 10,000 years. Melting snow atop the Wasatch Mountains seeped into the earth, two miles below the surface.
As the Earth heated the water, it picked up minerals and percolated upward back out the Earth creating a volcano shaped limestone deposit. The top opening of the hole allows sunlight and fresh air while the interior stays surprisingly warm (between 90 – 96 degrees). Jump in for a light swim, a relaxing dip, or practice your scuba diving.
Pamukkale – Turkey
Translated to mean Cotton Castle, you can see exactly why one might name these hot springs as such. With beauty that’s almost blinding, this geological wonder sits at the ancient site of Hierapolis, a Turkish city that is long past but still part of this amazing area. A series of travertines and hot springs, the water is filled with calcium carbonate with gives the location its sheer white beauty. But don’t be fooled with what may look like snow and icicles.
These hot springs can reach almost 200 degrees Fahrenheit. While there’s no spa locations on site (no one can use motorized vehicles, build, or even where shoes here), there are plenty locations close enough to find this destination one of the most relaxing in the world.
Blue Lagoon – Reykjanes, Iceland
One of the most visited attractions in Iceland, this spa and hot spring are located atop a lava field in southwestern Iceland. This is a man-made lagoon which receives water from a nearby geothermal power plant. Extremely hot water is heated near a lava flow then used to run turbines to generate electricity.
After which the water is sent to the lagoon for recreational use. The Blue Lagoon is one of the leading researchers for warm water treatments of illnesses as well one of the best resorts and spas to visit in Iceland.
Mystic Hot Springs – Monroe, UT
For those looking for more of an adventure and less of a pampered excursion, we recommend the Mystic Hot Springs of Monroe, Utah. Originally developed by Thomas Cooper in 1882. Cooper, built wooden boxes to collect the water and later developed an entire building resort around the hot springs. Unfortunately, by the 1950s, the building had closed and now the Mystic Hot Springs are better enjoyed by campers and travelers from all over the world.
The water comes from the ground at around 168 degrees at about 200 gallons per minute. A channel was created to cool and contain the water in several pools and tubs. The water is rich in calcium, magnesium, and iron which makes it great for soaking.
While of these destinations may make your jaw drop to the ground, they can’t beat the ease of a hot tub in your own backyard. With massaging jets and bubbles to sooth away your pain and relax your every muscle, ThermoSpas are a great option for anyone who loves a good hot spring but doesn’t have the time to take the trip. Contact ThermoSpas today and get started creating a warm water resort in your backyard.
