One of the natural bonuses of living near a volcano or an area of seismic activity is the hot spring. Heat from deep inside the Earth keeps these patches of water at a toasty temperature, regardless of the outdoor weather. Here’s a look at the best hot springs to visit from around the world.
Wulai, Taiwan
Taiwan is an island located in the “Ring of Fire” of the Pacific Ocean. Naturally, hot springs are a popular tourist destination. Choose from over 20 hotels and resorts in Wulai, where you an enjoy the clear, odorless, and naturally hot water.
Soaking in outdoor hot springs is as luxurious as it gets, but some hotels take it a step further, pumping the naturally warm water directly into hotel bathtubs. This makes Wulai an ideal luxury getaway, even if the weather isn’t perfect.
Secret Lagoon, Iceland
Most people have heard of the Blue Lagoon in Iceland. But for a more remote hot spring, head an hour and a half outside of Reykjavik for a dip in the Secret Lagoon. People have been swimming in Iceland’s best-kept secret since 1891, but it became a mystery to most for about 60 years, until a resurgence of tourism in 2006. Nearby, a geyser erupts every 10 minutes.
Glenwood Hot Springs, Colorado
Nothing complements a day of skiing quite like a dip in some piping hot water. Nestled between Aspen and Vail, Glenwood Hot Springs in Colorado is a popular tourist attraction for winter athletes. The town itself is built for the ski season, and you can enjoy shopping and restaurants after your soak.
Banff Upper Hot Springs, Canada
Head up to Alberta, Canada for the Banff Upper Hot Springs. This outdoor pool gives you a view of Mount Rundle, and the chilly local climate makes a dip in the hot spring an absolute necessity. Banff is currently closed to guests, but only temporarily. Check back later on in the year for visiting details!
Zhaori Hot Spring, Taiwan
Natural saltwater hot springs are rare—there are only three known to man. So if you’re traveling Taiwan, and want a totally unique experience, a weekend on Green Island is more than worth it. Here, you’ll find Zhaori Hot Spring, where you can soak in bubbling saltwater. The water source is the sea, and it’s heated by underwater lava. This is one experience that you won’t want to miss!
