There are two types of winter tourists: one of them embraces the ice and snow, choosing activities like skiing, snowboarding, perhaps even ice climbing and their likes, while the other prefers to shy away from the freezing weather, spending their winter vacation indoors. Soaking in thermal water is the winter vacation of choice for many – this can be a very relaxing, perhaps even curative way of breaking out of the everyday routine. There are many well-known spas in Europe, like the world-famous Blue Lagoon in Finland or Baden-Baden, a well-known German spa resort that doubles as one of the finest European casinos the finest European casinos. There are, in turn, many others that you may not have heard about before.
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Băile Felix, Romania – The first to describe the curative properties of the thermal springs at Băile Felix (the modern name of the settlement translates as “Felix Spa”) was a Moravian monk called Felix Helcher, in the 18th century, who decided to put them to use. For centuries, people have been visiting the private thermal spa facility to seek relief from joint and neurological conditions. The Communist regime nationalized the springs in 1948, building several lodging, recreational, and medical facilities around them. These, of course, returned to private property after the country’s anti-communist revolution in 1989. Today, Băile Felix has hotels and holiday rentals, an outdoor pool that can be used all year long, an indoor and outdoor aquapark, and a “wave pool” in the neighboring settlement “Băile 1 Mai”. It is at a short distance from the hills of the Carpathians, it’s surrounded by forests, and this makes it a perfect spot for relaxation.
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Széchenyi Medicinal Bath, Budapest, Hungary – Budapest is a thriving capital city famous for its landmarks, cuisine, and Sziget Festival – but many don’t know of its thermal springs. During the Ottoman occupation of the city, the Turks have established several traditional bathhouses – during this time, the city earned the nickname of “City of Baths”. The Széchenyi Medicinal Bath was built in the late 19th century – it is a massive Neo-Baroque complex of 3 outdoor and 15 indoor pools, with separate swimming and thermal sections. The waters here are recommended especially for those suffering of degenerative joint conditions.
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Istarske Toplice, Livade, Croatia – The Istarske Toplice – also known as Terme Istriane and o Bagni di Santo Stefano – is one of the most wonderful hidden gems in Europe. Located in a wooded area, it is perfect for hiking and relaxing walks but it has many indoor sports facilities as well. Its water is slightly radioactive and highly sulphuric, thought to treat various respiratory conditions, joint conditions, skin conditions, even infertility.
