While minerals are undoubtedly gaining popularity in the spa industry, their benefits have been enjoyed for years. In fact, the concept of bathing in hot mineral springs for relaxation and wellness dates back to ancient times. The geothermal-warmed and mineral-rich water from the earth’s crust provides numerous benefits to the mind, body, and soul.
A soak in a hot mineral spring can help improve certain skin conditions and muscle pain while providing a place for spa-goers to relax and socialize. “Hot spring locations are now more accessible to a wider range of the population, especially when enhanced with a spa built around it,” says Khursheed Irani, director of global training and development at Subtle Energies. “With more education and awareness, their popularity is growing outside of communities that already have a bathing and hot spring culture.”
Here are some of the hottest mineral springs in the U.S. and abroad where you can soak up all the benefits mineral springs have to offer:
- Banff Upper Hot Springs (Alberta, Canada): Located 5,200 feet above sea level, these waters contain bicarbonate, calcium, magnesium, sodium, and sulfate to heal skin and relax muscles.
- Blue Lagoon (Grindavík, Iceland): The geothermal water is rich in silica and sulfur, and guests can apply a white silica-rich geothermal mud to their faces while they soak.
- Dunton Hot Springs (Dolores, CO): This sulfur-free hot spring contains iron, magnesium, and lithium to help improve circulation.
- Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa (New Mexico): The sulfur-free geothermal mineral waters help to relieve arthritic pain, stomach ulcers, and a variety of skin issues.
- The Omni Homestead Resort (Hot Springs, VA): Two major springs from the Allegheny Mountains flow through the property, allowing spa-goers to soak in the minerals while relaxing.
- Two Bunch Palms (Desert Hot Springs, CA): This mineral spring has therapeutic and mood-enhancing properties, and its water is low in sulfur and rich in lithium.
RELATED STORIES
Discover the Next International Holiday: World Bathing Day