Beach & Thermal Springs in Europe: 9 Legendary Routes

With the approaching summer months, holiday plans have started to take shape, haven't they? If you're also looking to step outside the classic holiday concept and seek a different kind of experience that will pamper your soul and body одновременно, you're in the right place. During my 13 years in Europe, I've discovered countless routes, and this time, I've compiled 9 special spots for you that combine the coolness of the Mediterranean's salty waters with the relaxing warmth of healing thermal springs from underground – truly "two holidays in one."

Imagine, after swimming in an azure sea and sunbathing on the beach in the morning, you surrender yourself to the embrace of mineral-rich, wonderfully warm thermal waters in the afternoon... How does that sound? Every destination on my list offers exactly this and much more than a classic beach holiday: Sometimes the invigorating salty waters of the sea and the healing warmth resultados from the earth meet in the same bay, and sometimes a morning is dedicated to the refreshing effect of the sea, and the evening to the serene peace of the thermal waters. Come on, let's continue reading to find your personal favourite!

Perhaps this summer, you should change your habits and experience this extraordinary adventure that will give you a brand new holiday favourite. Here they are, those 9 enchanting routes where you will both relax and rejuvenate in the summer of 2025, experiencing beach and thermal pleasure together!

1. Ischia Island, Italy

Ischia Island, Italy

A Mediterranean miracle, personally experienced…

Directly opposite the Gulf of Naples, a lush green volcanic island rises from the sea: Ischia. The salty, slightly sulphurous wind that hit my face as I disembarked the ferry on my first visit is still as vivid in my mind as if it were yesterday. Long, golden sandy beaches like Citara and Maronti stretch along the island's west coast; ideal spots to surrender to the inviting salty blue of the Mediterranean. In the mornings, I usually first let myself drift into the cool waters of the sea, before often changing my course towards the impressive rocks of Sorgeto Bay. This is such a magical corner that thermal waters gushing from underground directly embrace the Mediterranean, creating a literal "natural open-air spa." The warmth of that water caressing your skin, the distinctive mineral scent mingling in the air, and the indescribable relaxation you feel in your body afterwards… This is truly an experience of the "you can't describe it, you have to live it" kind.

Once, after swimming at Citara Beach, I sat down at a charming trattoria just behind the beach. I tasted the freshest ravioli, handmade by an elderly Italian nonna, and sipped the island's ice-cold white wine alongside it; of course, freshly caught seafood was also on our table. At that moment, I felt глубоко once again how the pleasant fatigue and hunger after the sea, followed by the soothing effect of the thermal water, merged into a wonderful balance, and what such a holiday can give a person.

And then there's watching the distant silhouette of Naples from within the warm thermal water as the evening sun slowly sinks towards the sea… It's truly difficult to put the peace and pleasure of that moment into words. Ischia is an island that caresses and pampers not only your body but also your soul. I am sure that here you will experience the "two holidays in one" concept I've mentioned so often in its purest, most natural form.

Why Ischia?

• Beach and Thermal Togetherness: The opportunity to swim in the clear waters of the Mediterranean and relax in natural thermal springs on the same day.
• Authentic Italian Cuisine: An unforgettable gastronomic experience, especially with fresh seafood and local specialities уникальный to the island.
• Enchanting Nature and Views: Lush green volcanic hills, picture-postcard sunsets, and peaceful villages waiting to be discovered.

2. Kos Island (Therma Beach), Greece

Kos Island (Therma Beach), Greece

A warm thermal embrace meeting the cool waters of the Aegean…

The first moment I set foot on Kos Island, its whitewashed houses, the bougainvillaea bursting from every corner, and the deep blue Aegean waters invited me into a typical Greek dream. However, the real surprise the island had in store for me awaited at the much-talked-about Therma Beach. This place truly lives up to its name, famous for its thermal springs that flow directly into the sea. When I entered this small cove surrounded by dark volcanic rocks, I first encountered the familiar coolness of the Aegean. But I had only swum a few strokes when, as if by an invisible hand, the water temperature suddenly increased! I can hardly describe the surprise and joy I felt when I first sensed that warm, mineral-rich current seeping towards my skin through the waves. This was definitely one of those moments etched in my memory.

In the early hours of the morning, when it was still quiet, it became a ritual for me to immerse myself in the natural thermal pools formed spontaneously among the volcanic rocks right conceitos after swimming in the clear Aegean waters. There, leaning my back against the lukewarm rocks and closing my eyes, the iodized smell of the sea mingled with the light, earthy mineral scent emanating from the thermal water. I would feel all my muscles slowly relaxing, my soul calming down. To complete this pleasure, there was nothing like savouring a glass of ice-cold ouzo at a table laden with fresh seafood in a simple yet authentic Greek taverna on the beach at noon, overlooking the endless blue of the Aegean. On Kos, beach enjoyment and thermal healing came together on the same day, in a heart-warming harmony.

Why Kos Island (Therma Beach)?

• Unique Experience: Encountering hot thermal springs while swimming in the cool waters of the Aegean; feeling this contrast on your skin is truly unique.
• Natural Atmosphere: Typical Aegean architecture, untouched natural beauty, and sincere Greek hospitality.
• Aegean Flavours: An unforgettable feast in the tavernas on the shore, with your feet touching the sand, enjoying fresh fish, mezes, and of course, ouzo.

3. Loutra Edipsou, Evia Island, Greece

Loutra Edipsou, Evia Island, Greece

A legendary port where age-old healing springs embrace the blue of the Aegean…

Loutra Edipsou, perhaps Greece's most established and renowned thermal healing centre, adds a completely different, almost therapeutic dimension to our familiar understanding of an Aegean holiday. I can't forget the moment I disembarked the ferry and set foot on this peaceful corner of Evia Island; even as I walked towards the shore, the distinctive, slightly sulphurous yet inviting scent of the thermal waters 금액 into the sea tickled my nose. It was as if it was saying, "you're in the right place."

After a short swimming break in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean, I headed for the main attraction – those natural formations on the coast. Here, the hot, mineral-rich waters, bubbling up from underground and flowing gently towards the sea, had formed tiny, personal thermal pools among the rocks. When I immersed myself in one of these natural tubs, the unique relaxing effect of the hot water enveloping my entire body, combined with the touch of the cool sea waves occasionally seeping in, truly made one feel as if all worries were forgotten and one was reborn.

My mornings in Edipsou had an indispensable ritual: first, to enter the sea with the first light of day to wake myself up, and then to settle down at a wooden table in one of the charming local cafes lining the shore. There, the pleasure of starting the day with warm, freshly baked pastries (perhaps I should call them by their local name, tiganites or loukoumades) and a foamy cup of Greek coffee was unparalleled. These simple yet heartfelt moments both energised me for the rest of the day and provided an indescribable inner peace. And then there were those magical moments at sunset, when the steam from the thermal waters and the last rays of the sun covered the shore as if with a golden veil… Those sights immortalised every minute I spent in Edipsou in my mind. I doubt there is another Aegean town where beach pleasure and thermal healing are so intertwined and have remained so authentic.

Why Loutra Edipsou?

• Unique Encounter: The opportunity to swim and relax in natural thermal springs that have been providing healing since ancient times, right by the sea.
• Historical and Authentic Atmosphere: The chance to enjoy centuries-old spa culture, traditional Greek architecture, and unhurried coastal life.
• Local Flavours and Tranquillity: Pleasant breaks in seaside cafes with homemade delicacies, fresh fish, and the famous Greek coffee, accompanied by the sound of waves.

4. Alicante & Baños de Fortuna, Spain

Alicante & Baños de Fortuna, Spain

A Spanish getaway from the lively rhythm of the Mediterranean to the serene peace of healing waters…

I remember setting off for a completely different experience after an energetic day on Spain's famous Costa Blanca shores, warming myself with the Mediterranean sun on Alicante's golden sands and surrendering to the azure waters. Just a half-hour drive from Alicante's bustling beaches, a pleasant journey accompanied by olive and orange trees, I found myself in what felt like another world: Baños de Fortuna. This place was a true oasis of calm after the liveliness of Alicante.

The moment I gently slipped into one of the outdoor pools surrounded by natural stones at this thermal centre, said to possess a centuries-old healing tradition, I felt all the day's fatigue melt away with the mineral-rich, temperate water. While my skin still bore the traces of Mediterranean salt and sun, meeting the warmth of these healing waters provided an incredible rejuvenation. As I relaxed under the majestic palm trees and date palms stretching همکاری, listening to the birdsong, I realised how far I was from the city's noise and how deeply connected I was with nature. Experiencing the energy of Alicante and the tranquillity of Baños de Fortuna on the same day truly added an unexpected and unforgettable dimension to my trip to Spain; it was as if I had experienced two different holidays in one day.

Why Alicante & Baños de Fortuna?

• Two Worlds in One: Easily transition from Alicante's vibrant Mediterranean beaches to the peaceful thermal spas of Baños de Fortuna with just a half-hour journey.
• Centuries-Old Healing and Peace: Bodily and spiritual purification in natural thermal waters that have been providing healing for hundreds of years, under palm trees.
• Sunny Mediterranean Escape: A complete Spanish experience combining the joy of sea, sand, and sun with the relaxing comfort of a thermal spa.

5. Lanzarote, Canary Islands (Charco de San Ginés & Los Hervideros Area)

Lanzarote, Canary Islands (Charco de San Ginés & Los Hervideros Area)

An unconventional island tale where the wild waters of the Atlantic meet the warm heart of volcanic earth…

When I first set foot on Lanzarote, I felt as if I had been beamed to another planet. Those jet-black volcanic soils, the roads winding through lava fields, and the moon-like landscapes… It was unlike any place I had seen before. One of my unique experiences on this island began in the morning at Charco de San Ginés in the capital, Arrecife. This was a charming lagoon opening to the sea, surrounded by whitewashed houses, where small fishing boats swayed. Swimming in those calm waters, gliding between the boats, made me feel for a moment as if I were not on the bustling Atlantic coast, but in a peaceful Mediterranean village. Enjoying my coffee accompanied by the ocean breeze at one of the small cafes on its shore was also a pleasant start to the day.

In the afternoon, I set off to discover the wilder and more dramatic face of the island, heading southwest to Los Hervideros. This was a breathtaking place where the giant waves of the Atlantic crashed with full force against the jet-black volcanic cliffs, a veritable power show of nature. The roar of the ocean, the sounds of the water hitting the rocks, and the salty water droplets mingling in the air... I felt tiny in the face of nature.

After the impressive atmosphere of Los Hervideros, I headed towards a beautiful cove I had heard about nearby, still on these volcanic shores. There, among the black lava rocks, I discovered small, natural rock pools where the sun's warmth and perhaps a slight lukewarmness seeping from the depths of the earth met the coolness of the sea. It was incredible to surrender myself to these sheltered, warm waters after feeling the power of the ocean. So, in Lanzarote, while the cool and strong wind of the Atlantic hit my face on one hand, on the other, I experienced nature and peace in such different ways on the same day, with the [warm/lukewarm] waters offered by the volcanic earth enveloping my body. This island promised an unforgettable holiday not only with its beaches and waters but also with its unique landscapes that make you feel like part of a completely different world, and its whitewashed villages shaped by César Manrique's touch.

Why Lanzarote?

• Unconventional and Unique Geography: A unique route with jet-black volcanic terrains, shores where the powerful waves of the Atlantic meet, and natural lukewarm/hot rock pools unexpectedly appearing on volcanic coasts.
• Dual-Character Experience: Peaceful moments in calm lagoons like Charco de San Ginés on one hand, and witnessing the power of nature at spots like Los Hervideros and a thermal touch on volcanic shores on the other.
• Art, Culture, and Nature: The unique architecture César Manrique brought to the island, traditional fishing life, and a captivating blend of unusually beautiful volcanic landscapes.

6. Aix-les-Bains & Lac du Bourget, France

Aix-les-Bains & Lac du Bourget, France

In the Shadow of the Alps, A Noble French Dream: Water and Healing…

When I first stepped into Aix-les-Bains, nestled gently at the foot of the French Alps and situated on the shores of Lac du Bourget, which shines like a jewel, I immediately understood why it's called the "Riviera des Alpes" (Riviera of the Alps). Its elegant Belle Époque architecture, chic cafes, and the aristocratic tranquillity seeping from every corner… This place offered both the generosity of nature and the refined taste of humanity.

I remember it like yesterday, the moment I first let myself into the inviting, azure waters of Lac du Bourget, France's largest natural lake, on a warm summer morning. As the water created a cool shiver on my skin, I lifted my head to see the majestic silhouette of the lush green mountains opposite and a few white clouds drifting in the sky. At that moment, swimming against the magnificent backdrop of the Alps, I felt far from all the world's chaos, filled with a pure sense of freedom. It was possible to laze on the beach at some points of the lake, or for those who wanted to be more active, to participate in various water sports; I enjoyed both that day.

After those delightful hours by the lake, still carrying that sweet languor, I took a short walk towards the heart of the town. My aim was to crown the day in one of the famous thermal spas that make Aix-les-Bains Aix-les-Bains. As I walked through elegant boulevards shaded by centuries-old plane trees and entered the impressive door of the historic Thermes Nationaux, I felt as if I had gone back in time. Marble corridors, high ceilings, and that light mineral scent hanging in the air… It was exciting to know I was following in the footsteps of countless people who had sought healing here for centuries. When I gently slipped into the tranquil pool filled with lukewarm, mineral-rich thermal water, I felt all the day's fatigue drain from my body. At that moment, I understood once again why Aix-les-Bains was one of the favourite getaways of kings and queens.

In the evening, the taste of the fresh lake trout I ate in one of the romantic restaurants by the lake, accompanied by a local Savoie wine, left its mark on my palate. As the sun slowly disappeared behind the mountains, the riot of orange and pink colours on the lake… Aix-les-Bains was, for me, one of those rare places that caresses not only the body but also the soul, making one feel truly special. Here, the natural beauty offered by the lake and the healing of the thermal waters combined with flawless elegance.

Why Aix-les-Bains & Lac du Bourget?

• Lake and Thermal Elegance: The pleasure of swimming in the turquoise waters of Lac du Bourget, France's largest natural lake, and a unique relaxation experience in historic thermal spa centres with Belle Époque architecture.
• Breathtaking Alpine Views: At the foot of the majestic Alps, an inspiring, peaceful natural atmosphere that embraces every shade of green and blue.
• Savoie Culture and Romance: Chic restaurants where you can taste the delicacies of Savoie cuisine, lively local markets, and unforgettable romantic evenings by the lake under the stars.

7. Hévíz, Hungary

Hévíz, Hungary

A Giant Thermal Embrace Dancing with Water Lilies: Europe’s Hidden Healing Oasis…

When I arrived in Hévíz, hidden in the midst of lush green nature in western Hungary, I understood at first glance that no "lake" or "spa" I had experienced before could compare to this place. I found myself wondering, "Is this a spa, or some kind of beach?" Hévíz transcended this dilemma so beautifully! This was Europe's – and according to some, the world's – largest, natural, biologically active thermal lake, and I was eager to discover this natural wonder.

I will never forget the moment I took my first step into the water, passing by the famous wooden jetties and the elegant bathhouses on them, surrounded by lush green trees on the lake's edge. It wasn't the coolness of a lake I expected; on the contrary, it was a warm, silky touch that enveloped my body. The water felt like a velvet blanket; accompanied by a light mineral scent, it gave me a feeling of relaxation that penetrated to every cell. Even in the middle of winter, the warmth of this lake never disappoints you.

Swimming among the famous pink and white water lilies, which bloom in all their elegance on the lake's surface, especially in the summer months, was a therapy in itself for me. As I glided among those delicate flowers, the tranquil atmosphere around me, the people floating calmly on the water just like me, the occasional chirp of birds… Time seemed to have slowed down, and all the world's hustle and bustle seemed to have disappeared into the depths of these healing waters. People usually read books on the water with their brought-along or rented special swimming rings (those famous "úszógumis"), chatted, or simply rested with their eyes closed. This was a sight unique to Hévíz, one you wouldn't see anywhere else.

Starting the day by settling on one of the sun loungers by the lake and reading my book, and then letting myself into those inviting, lukewarm waters at different times of the day, quickly became a habit. During my stay in many of the chic boutique hotels around Hévíz, it was an additional pleasure to relieve the day's fatigue in special pools also fed by this thermal lake. But nothing could replace the unique peace of being in the heart of that giant natural lake, among the water lilies. Hévíz was a magical place that nourished not only the body but also the soul, making one feel like a part of nature.

Why Hévíz?

• A Unique Natural Spa Experience: The opportunity to swim among stunning water lilies in the world's largest biologically active thermal lake, experiencing both a beach-like pleasure close to nature and a unique spa experience combined.
• Year-Round Comfort and Healing: With ideal water temperatures averaging 35-38°C in summer and not dropping below 24-26°C in winter, the waters offer healing and relaxation throughout the year.
• Peaceful and Picturesque Atmosphere: Lush green parks around the lake, historic bathhouse architecture, the fairytale landscape created by the water lilies, and an unparalleled environment that instils deep tranquillity.

8. Saturnia & Tuscan Beaches, Italy

Saturnia & Tuscan Beaches, Italy

In the Heart of Tuscany, the Magical Dance of Refreshment from the Sea and Healing Born from the Earth…

Although the first things that come to mind when thinking of Tuscany are those picture-postcard hills, cypress-lined roads, and vineyards, for me, this dream geography had another face: the shores carrying the salty scent of the Mediterranean and the legendary thermal waters gushing from the depths of the earth. Experiencing these two worlds on the same day was to become one of the most unforgettable memories of my travels in Italy.

That morning, I started the day at Talamone's unique, somewhat wild, yet so peaceful beach. When I descended to the cove via the narrow path shaded by pine trees, the clarity and calmness of the sea immediately drew me in. After surrendering myself to the cool waters of the Mediterranean, I lay down on the fine sand facing the view of the old watchtower on the coast and enjoyed the famous Italian art of "dolce far niente," or "sweet doing nothing." In the afternoon, with both the freshness of the sea and the excitement of a new adventure in my heart, I set off in my little trusty rental car towards the interior of Tuscany, through lush green hills and sunflower fields stretching as far as the eye could see, towards Saturnia. The landscapes that greeted me at every turn were like Renaissance paintings.

And finally, there it was: Cascate del Mulino! The light sulphur scent I felt in the air as soon as I got out of the car was a sign that I was in the right place. But the sight that greeted me was beyond all my expectations. Limestone pools, carved by nature's own hands, cascading tier upon tier, filled with steaming turquoise, warm waters… It was as if I had stepped into a fairytale land. Without wasting any time, I immersed myself in those approximately 37.5-degree, mineral-rich waters. Being in this public and completely free "natural jacuzzi" in the middle of nature, the silky feeling of the water on my skin, the gentle massage from the stones… It was truly a unique experience. Even as it started to get dark, I didn't want to leave. Those moments, sitting in the lukewarm thermal waters under the first stars in the sky with a few fellow travellers, chatting about life, became etched in my mind as one of the most magical memories of my Tuscan journey.

That day, as I left Saturnia, watching the magnificent view of the setting sun painting the Tuscan hills red, I carried within me both the salty vitality left by the sea and the deep, muscle-relaxing peace given by the thermal waters. This was not just a holiday day, but a journey that nourished my soul; a perfect blend of nature, health, and that unique Italian way of life.

Why Saturnia & Tuscan Beaches?

• Tuscan Dream: Sea, Sand, and Healing Waters: On one hand, the joy of swimming at beaches like Talamone or Marina di Grosseto, famous for their golden Mediterranean sands, and on the other, a unique purification experience in the world-renowned natural thermal waterfalls of Saturnia, just a short drive away – all possible in one day.
• Unique and Free Natural Spa Enjoyment: Authentic and unforgettable relaxation in the stunning turquoise, sulphurous thermal waters of Cascate del Mulino, in terraced natural limestone pools, completely free of charge, 24 hours a day.
• In the Heart of the Italian Art of Living (La Dolce Vita): Vineyards stretching alongside Tuscany's iconic landscapes, silvery olive groves, charming villages captivating with their stone houses, delicious local trattorias, and romantic moments under the stars right next to the thermal waters.

9. Blue Lagoon, Iceland

Blue Lagoon, Iceland

Under the Northern Lights (Perhaps!), A Milky Blue Dream in a Volcanic World…

Each of my trips to Iceland has left deep impressions on me, but the Blue Lagoon experience was, I think, the most fairytale-like. As you set off from Reykjavík and pass through those famous moss-green and jet-black lava fields stretching for kilometres, a sense of curiosity and excitement fills you. When I first saw that dense white cloud of steam rising towards the cold sky in the distance, I said to myself, "That's it!"; it was like a gateway to another planet.

When I stepped into the Blue Lagoon, I was literally speechless at the sight before me. In the midst of jet-black, rugged volcanic rocks, the steaming, incredible milky blue waters shone like an otherworldly jewel… While a sharp Icelandic wind whipped my hair outside, the moment I first entered those approximately 38-39 degree, warm, mineral-filled waters, it was as if all my cells screamed "finally!". The velvety, almost creamy warmth that instantly enveloped my skin, relaxed my entire body in an instant. Watching the distant moss-covered lava hills or, if it was winter, the snow-covered serene landscape through the dense steam surrounding me, was a surreal experience.

There was, of course, no golden sandy beach here in the traditional sense. But for me, the smoothed, black lava rock shores of the Blue Lagoon, the wooden platforms I walked on, and the small coves created in the water for relaxation, offered a completely different, much more exciting "beach" experience. It made me smile to see everyone around me, just like me, applying the famous white silica mud from the wooden boxes located in various parts of the lagoon to their faces and shoulders, enjoying this natural mask. While my skin was regenerating, I was also trying to immortalise these unique moments with my phone (in its waterproof case).

At one point, I swam to a quieter corner of the lagoon and leaned my back against a lukewarm lava rock. When I closed my eyes, I could only hear the gentle lapping of the water and the distant roar of the wind. At that moment, knowing I was so close to the rugged shores of the Atlantic, yet at the same time in such a sheltered, peaceful, and warm sanctuary… I felt the famous, contrast-filled, awe-inspiring magic of Iceland to my core. The Blue Lagoon is perhaps not a classic summer holiday destination, but in the mystical atmosphere of the North, it offered a truly unique ritual that would pamper both your body and soul, where thermal waters met "beach pleasure."

Why Blue Lagoon?

• Otherworldly and Unforgettable Escape: An iconic and unparalleled experience in steaming, milky blue geothermal waters located in the heart of jet-black volcanic lava fields, where you'll feel as if you're on another planet.
• The North's Enchanting Contrast and Beauty: Healing waters with an average year-round temperature of 38-39°C that defy Iceland's cool, crisp, and clean air; a captivating atmosphere combined with snow-covered (in winter) or moss-green lava landscapes surrounding you.
• Natural Luxury, Purification, and Photographic Moments: Naturally rejuvenate your skin with mineral-rich white silica mud masks, take advantage of modern spa facilities, and experience complete purification and relaxation in the heart of breathtaking volcanic nature, offering a picture-perfect scene at every corner.

Double Comfort in Europe: From Beach to Thermal, Two Pleasures in One Holiday

These nine routes, which I have introduced to you in this article, each standing out with its own geographically specific flavours, landscapes, and rhythm of life, promise a completely different summer to those who want to step outside the usual holiday moulds. The coolness of the salty sea in the early morning, the embracing comfort of warm thermal waters in the afternoon… Truly, "two different pleasures in one holiday" has never been so easy and unforgettable.

If you want to open yourself up to a new experience beyond ordinary beaches, one that will pamper your body and soul simultaneously, these routes are for you. What I experienced in each of them gave me not only memories but also a new understanding of holidays.

If you have also discovered hidden paradises that have both a beach and a thermal spring, share them in the comments – because for travelling souls, the map is never complete!

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