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Relax and rejuvenate at one of these renowned hot springs in France. Discover the therapeutic benefits of mineral-rich waters in stunning natural surroundings.
Hot springs, also known as “thermal baths,” have been used for centuries for therapeutic purposes. The natural hot water is rich in minerals and is said to have healing properties that may help with a variety of health issues, such as muscle pain, arthritis, and various skin conditions.
France – The Home of Hot Springs
France is home to many hot springs resorts, where visitors can enjoy the warm waters in a variety of pools, as well as indulge in a range of wellness treatments.
These resorts offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Many are located in picturesque regions of the country, surrounded by beautiful countryside, making them ideal for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The hot springs resorts in France offer visitors a wide range of activities such as fitness, gastronomy, and nature, as well as the chance to visit the cultural and historical sites nearby.
Read on to learn about some of the best and most famous hot springs in France so you can visit them the next time you stop by.
Well-Known Hot Springs Regions in France
The Town of Vichy
One of the most famous hot springs regions in France is the town of Vichy, located in the Auvergne region of central France. Vichy is famous for its thermal baths, which have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries.
The town is home to several thermal spas, including the Vichy Thermal Spa, which is known for its therapeutic waters and mud treatments.
The thermal waters in Vichy are rich in minerals, including sodium chloride and bicarbonate that are said to have healing properties for a variety of diseases, including rheumatism, arthritis, and respiratory issues.
The Town of Aix-les-Bains
Another famous hot spring destination in France is the town of Aix-les-Bains, located in the Savoie region of the French Alps.
Aix-les-Bains is home to the Thermes Nationaux d’Aix-les-Bains, one of the oldest thermal baths in France.
The thermal waters in Aix-les-Bains are also rich in minerals and may help with a variety of skin conditions and respiratory issues.
The Town of Dax
In addition to the hot springs regions in the towns of Vichy and Aix-les-Bains, there are many other hot springs in France that are worth visiting.
The town of Dax, located in the Landes region of southwestern France, is known for its hot springs and thermal baths. Visitors can enjoy the warm waters in a variety of pools, including indoor and outdoor pools, as well as a pool with massage jets.
Dax’s hot springs have been known since ancient times, and the Romans were said to have built a spa around them. Visitors can see the remains of the Roman spa at the Archéosite, a museum that tells the history of Dax.
Dax is located close to the Atlantic coast, meaning that people can enjoy beach activities such as swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. The town is known for its local specialties, such as foie gras and the famous Landes chicken. Visitors can enjoy delicious local cuisine at the many restaurants in the town.
The town of Dax has a rich history too. You can visit the Dax’s Cathedral as well as the Saint-Vincent church and view the beauty of the old French architecture these buildings have.
The Town of Evian
Then there’s Evian-les-Bains – a town located in the Haute-Savoie region of France, also known for its therapeutic hot springs.
The town has a long history of thermal baths, with the first spa opening in 1824. The Evian Thermal Spa is considered to be one of the oldest and most famous spas in Europe.
It is located in the heart of the French Alps, and visitors can explore the beautiful scenery by going on hiking and cycling trails. It’s also famous for its local specialties, such as raclette and fondue. People can enjoy delicious local cuisine at the many restaurants in the town.
There are also lake activities since the town is located on the shores of Lake Geneva; thus, visitors can participate in some lake activities such as boating, swimming, and fishing.
| Towns with hot springs | Region | Location |
| The town of Vichy | Auvergne Region – Central France | Vichy |
| Aix-les-Bains – French Alps | Savoie Region – French Alps | Aix-les-Bains |
| The town of Dax | Landes Region – Southwestern France | Dax |
| The town of Evian | Haute-Savoie Region | Évian-les-Bains |
Famous Hot Springs Resorts in France
There are several hot springs resorts in France that are popular among visitors, including:
- Les Thermes de Casteljaloux
- Les Thermes de Saint-Gervais-les-Bains
- Les Thermes de Bourbon Lancy
- Les Thermes de Vittel
Things to do at these Hot Springs Resorts
Thermal Baths
The resorts are known for their thermal baths, which are fed by hot springs that are rich in minerals and are said to have therapeutic properties.
Visitors can enjoy the warm waters by taking a dip in a variety of pools that these resorts have to offer. From indoor pools to outdoor pools, there is something to suit everyone.
Wellness Treatments
The resorts offer a wide range of wellness treatments. These treatments include massages of different types, various facials, and body wraps. All of the treatments are designed to help guests relax and rejuvenate the body and mind.
Fitness Activities
The hot springs resorts also have a fitness center. Here, visitors can participate in different classes, such as yoga and aqua-gym. Some of the resorts also feature saunas and a hammam for those who want to relax after an exhausting workout.
Nature Activities
Les Thermes de Casteljalous and Les Thermes de Saint-Gervais-les-Bains are surrounded by beautiful countryside, and visitors can explore the area by hiking and cycling. They also have a mini-golf course, a tennis court, and a playground for children.
Les Thermes de Bourbon Lancy is located in the heart of Burgundy. Thus, visitors can explore the beautiful countryside by going on hiking and cycling trails, as well as visiting the nearby towns and villages.
Les Thermes de Vittel is also famous for its natural beauty. The resort is located in the heart of the Vosges region. Visitors can go hiking and cycling here as well and enjoy the beautiful scenery. They can also enjoy a nice stroll in the forest park.
Gastronomy
These French hot springs resorts have their own restaurants, which serve a variety of local and regional cuisine.
Some of the types of food that are commonly served in these restaurants include traditional French dishes such as coq au vin, ratatouille, confit de canard, and more, as well as local specialties such as tartiflette or raclette.
The restaurants at the hot springs that are located near the coast also feature seafood on their menu, such as bouillabaisse, oysters, and grilled fish.
There are many food options for vegans and vegetarians, too, with a menu filled with dishes made out of fresh vegetables and plant-based ingredients.
Skiing and Winter Sports
Les Thermes de Saint-Gervais-les-Bains is a ski resort, and in winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and other winter sports, such as snowshoeing, ice skating, and dog sledding on the nearby slopes.
History and Culture
Bourbon Lancy is a historic town with a rich heritage. Visitors can explore the town’s many historical sites, such as the Saint-Etienne church and the château de Bourbon-Lancy.
Vittel is also a charming town with a rich history. Here, people can visit various historical sites as well, such as the Saint-Hilaire church and the Casino de Vittel.
| Hot springs name | Region | Location |
| Les Thermes de Casteljaloux | Aquitaine Region | Thermes de Casteljaloux |
| Les Thermes de Saint-Gervais-les-Bains | Haute-Savoie Region | Les Thermes De Saint-Gervais |
| Les Thermes de Bourbon Lancy | Burgundy Region | Thermes de Bourbon-Lancy |
| Les Thermes de Vittel | Lorraine Region | Les Thermes de Vittel |
Conclusion
In conclusion, visiting the hot springs in France is an excellent way to unwind and rejuvenate. The mineral-rich waters of the hot springs have therapeutic properties that may help alleviate various health issues, and the wellness treatments offered at the resorts may help relax the body and mind.
Whether you’re looking for a calm getaway or a more active holiday, a hot springs resort in France is a great choice.
With a variety of options available, you can find the perfect resort to suit your preferences and needs.
