Discover the 6 best thermal baths in Switzerland

With its myriad of lakes, rivers and waterfalls, Switzerland is sometimes referred to as "Europe's water tower" and boasts a multitude of natural springs, the potential of which has not escaped the notice of the region's inhabitants. The history of thermal baths in Switzerland goes back to antiquity, when the Romans discovered the curative powers of the region's waters.

They built thermal baths to take full advantage of its relaxing benefits and therapeutic virtues. In the Middle Ages, the natural springs of Loèche-les-Bains, Pfäfers and Scuol were discovered, adding to the string of other places already known. Even today, thermal baths, whether paid or free of charge, are a great source of pleasure for Swiss people and tourists alike. So if you want to recharge your batteries in the hot springs in the heart of the mountains, follow your guide!

© Drazen Zigic / Shutterstock

Groundwater is of such high quality because it has been filtered through layers of rock and minerals before rising to the surface, enriching it with minerals and trace elements. Thermal waters in Switzerland are often rich in sulphates, bicarbonates, sodium and calcium, among other minerals. These minerals have therapeutic properties. They can relieve joint pain and stiffness, improve blood circulation, and help heal certain skin diseases. Swiss thermal waters also have bactericidal properties that can help clean wounds and prevent infections.

1 ) Lavey baths in Vaud

© Les Bains de Lavey

The Lavey baths are reputed to be one of the most beautiful thermal baths in Switzerland. Immersed in an idyllic setting, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Dents du Midi while sitting comfortably in the water or wrapped in a bathrobe. Located in the historic town of Aigle, in the canton of Vaud, the Lavey thermal baths have the largest surface area of thermal baths in French-speaking Switzerland at 1600m2.

With spring water reaching up to 70°C, it's the hottest in Switzerland. There are several pools at your disposal, with temperatures ranging from 32 to 36°C. The wooded park welcomes you in an atmosphere of relaxation and well-being. Close your eyes and discover the pleasures of this "Garden of Eden" in the heart of Switzerland. The Lavey baths also offer night-time baths until midnight, where you can enjoy a unique experience surrounded by music and light, sipping a drink until the Arc-en-Ciel bar opens late (until 11pm).

2) The natural springs of Combioula, in Valais

© Loisirs CH

The Combioula hot springs are a unique natural site near the Pyramides d'Euseigne in the Val d'Hérens. The springs are located near the River Borgne in Saint-Martin, where water gushes out of the ground at 28°C all year round, nestling in small natural pools to form impromptu thermal baths in the heart of nature. The best way to reach the springs is on foot from the Suen post bus stop. It's a good hour-and-a-half's walk, with a possible stopover at the Ossona plateau, with its gîtes, delightful inn and terrace. Another possible route, again by postbus from Sion, is from Euseigne. A 40-minute walk will take you to the hot springs.

3) Yverdon-les-Bains spa centre

The Centre Thermal Yverdon-les-Bains is a wellness centre located at the end of Lake Neuchâtel and at the foot of the Swiss Jura, in a splendid, peaceful setting. It offers 4 thermal pools with sulphurous waters that promise well-being, relaxation and fun. Waterfalls, Jacuzzis, massage jets or relaxation beds: there's something for everyone. The outdoor pool, which overlooks a large wooded park, is heated to 32°C in winter and 28°C in summer, making it enjoyable whatever the weather! The spa also has a hotel, the Grand Hôtel, with 116 rooms and 15 fully-equipped seminar and banqueting rooms.

Grand Hotel and Spa Switzerland
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Grand Hotel and Spa

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There are 2 restaurants offering simple, delicate cuisine based on regional produce and themed menus. The thermal centre also offers relaxation and wellness activities such as waterfalls, jacuzzis, massage jets and relaxation beds. The indoor and outdoor thermal pools are heated for total comfort. Admission to the baths lasts 3 hours and costs 22 euros for adults and 12 euros for children aged 4 to 15. Admission is free for children up to the age of 4.

4 ) Villars Spa, Villars-sur-Ollon

Les Bains de Villars is a place of relaxation that offers you areas to unwind and enjoy a moment of absolute well-being. The wellness area features saunas and steam rooms heated to 90°C for a steam experience and a Nordic ritual. There is also a cold water pool for a thermal shock that stimulates blood circulation and boosts energy. In summer, you can relax on the terraces with panoramic views of the Vaud Alps and soak up the sun's rays to recharge your batteries. In summer, the outdoor areas complete the complex, with terraces and sun loungers. There's also a snack bar where you can cool off or indulge in a sweet treat.

Alpe Fleurie Hotel & Restaurant Switzerland
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Alpe Fleurie Hotel & Restaurant

Hotel located near the ski resorts
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5) The Brigerbad baths in Valais

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The Brigerbad thermal baths are a place of fun and relaxation for all the family, with over 2,600m2 of water divided between 12 indoor and outdoor pools, jacuzzis, whirlpools, Europe's largest waterslide and a breathtaking view of the Valais Alps. The sulphurous waters, rich in lithium, potassium and calcium, have therapeutic properties and can be combined with relaxing and beauty treatments for a complete regeneration experience. The baths also offer a wide range of massages and services for an exotic experience, with accommodation options including a campsite with modern facilities and equipment or partner hotels. There are also catering options to suit all tastes, with fresh, local and homemade produce to satisfy every craving.

6) Bain-Bleu Hammam & Spa Genève-Plage

Bain-Bleu Hammam & Spa Genève-Plage is a complex of baths inspired both by the public baths of the 1930s and by oriental hammams (you'll notice the moucharabieh façades, a typical openwork partition in the Maghreb). The interior is decorated in a Moroccan style with a hushed atmosphere and features indoor pools with grottoes, niches, jacuzzis and a massaging jet.

© Enord

There is also a 250m² rooftop bath overlooking the lake and a wooden deck for relaxing in summer, as well as a bistro lounge serving tapas, salads, sandwiches, pastries, fresh fruit juices and champagne. Finally, you can enjoy a hammam area reserved for women on Tuesdays, offering a six-step ritual including warm steam and aromatic herbs rooms, a scrub room with a Kessa glove, a steam and essential oils room, an oriental lounge for optional treatments such as rhassoul wraps and massages, with tea and sweet or savoury oriental treats."

by Jude JONES
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