Exploring the world’s most beautiful hot springs isn’t just about relaxation. It’s about discovering places where geothermal activity sculpted surreal landscapes, where cultures turned natural heat into centuries-old wellness traditions, and where plunging into mineral-rich waters connects you to the Earth in a way few experiences can. From forested South American pools to historical U.S. bathhouses, thermal retreats offer destinations in their own right … and the world is full of stunners.

PHOTO: © SERNATUR LOS RÍOS

TERMAS GEOMÉTRICAS, CHILE
Entering the Termas Geométricas hot spring complex, tucked deep in Chile’s Villarrica National Park, feels like stepping into a hidden sanctuary. Architect Germán del Sol designed this collection of nearly two dozen slate-lined thermal pools to blend seamlessly into the dramatic forest landscape, using a striking network of bright red wooden walkways to contrast the deep green of the mature vegetation.

The water here emerges from the ground at more than 176 degrees Fahrenheit and cools to more bearable bathing temperatures as it flows through the pools. Each varies in heat and scenery as you follow the seemingly endless bridges toward the waterfall at the top. Warning: This cascading beauty is not warm, and it offers a serious cold-plunge experience in winter months. The dazzling journey to the waterfall feels like a trip through a fairy-tale version of Jurassic Park, well worth the walk even if you skip the chilly treat at the end.

Go in the early morning or late afternoon for a better chance of smaller crowds. The overall experience is even more enchanting in the rain, when mist weaves through the wooden walkways and enhances the mystical atmosphere, so don’t shy away from an overcast visit. Bring water shoes or sandals, as the walkways can be slippery year- round and quite cold in chilly months.

Beyond the springs, Villarrica National Park offers incredible hiking opportunities, with trails leading to viewpoints of the active Villarrica Volcano. The region is also home to indigenous Mapuche communities whose culture, crafts and cuisine can add more depth to a visit.

PHOTO: © TABACÓN THERMAL RESORT & SPA, COSTA RICA

TABACÓN THERMAL RESORT & SPA, COSTA RICA
Set against the backdrop of Costa Rica’s active Arenal Volcano, Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa offers a peak example of how nature and luxury can coexist. Unlike artificial thermal pools found in many resorts, Tabacón features a naturally flowing hot river, heated by volcanic activity and cascading into a series of elegantly arranged pools and waterfalls through the rainforest. It’s easy to lose yourself in the expansive setting of circuitous paths constantly revealing gorgeous new scenes — let yourself get lost. This proves an ideal place to spend the day, with abundant lounge areas and verdant spots to grab food and drinks amid the hot springs.

The mineral-rich waters of Tabacón are said to promote circulation, reduce stress and even aid in skin health. Minerals aside, the setting is pristine: Lush tropical plants frame every pool, with the sound of wildlife and rushing water creating a tranquil escape. For the ultimate relaxation amid the springs, book a spa treatment in one of the resort’s private bungalows, where you can receive a volcanic mud wrap or coffee exfoliation in an open-air setting surrounded by the natural sounds.

You don’t need to stay at this luxury resort to visit the hot springs for a day, but they’re included if you do, and it’s a convenient location for exploring the region. If you do stay, you’ll also get exclusive access to the adults-only Shangri-La Gardens area, off-limits to day passholders.

After soaking, Arenal National Park offers adventure opportunities from zip lining and white-water rafting to hiking volcano-view lava trails or traversing hanging bridges above the lush forest. Nearby La Fortuna is a lively town with excellent local dining featuring traditional casado plates and tropical fruit juices.

HAKONE, JAPAN
Thanks to its volcanic geology, Japan is home to thousands of onsens, but few regions offer the variety and accessibility of Hakone. Located just 90 minutes from Tokyo, this hot spring haven features everything from historic bathhouses to ultramodern onsen resorts with views of Mount Fuji, letting you be the judge of what’s most beautiful.

Stay in a traditional ryokan for one of the most authentic ways to experience Hakone’s thermal waters. These Japanese inns often feature open-air baths, allowing you to soak in natural hot spring water while taking in views of the surrounding mountains. Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu proves a modern option with infinity-style baths, while the Tenzan Onsen public bathhouse with beautifully designed stone pools and cascading waterfalls offers a more rustic, traditional experience.

Hakone itself is a destination worth exploring. The Hakone Open-Air Museum blends hot spring relaxation with contemporary art, while a boat ride on Lake Ashi offers another vantage point for views of Mount Fuji on clear days. In the Owakudani geothermal valley, you can try black eggs boiled in sulfuric hot springs for a unique cultural twist to the thermal experience.

Important: Be mindful of onsen etiquette. Bathers must wash thoroughly before entering communal pools, and most onsens do not allow swimsuits. If you have tattoos, check ahead, as some restrict entry to guests with body art.

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© MNSTUDIO | DREAMSTIME

TERME DI SATURNIA, ITALY
In the rolling hills of Tuscany, the thermal waters of Terme di Saturnia have been prized for more than 3,000 years. According to legend, the Roman god Saturn struck the earth with a lightning bolt, creating these hot springs as a gift to humanity. Today the waters emerge at a constant 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit, rich in sulfur, carbon and other minerals known for therapeutic properties.

The site features both a luxury spa resort and a series of free, natural pools known as the Cascate del Mulino. The latter is particularly spectacular, with water flowing over limestone terraces forming bright blue, steaming pools in the middle of the countryside. While the resort offers controlled access and refined amenities, the wild setting of the Cascate del Mulino remains a must-witness, regardless. Good to know: The minerals in the water can leave dark marks on your swimsuit and a light scent on your skin, so bring a dark-colored swimsuit and rinse off thoroughly afterward.

Nearby, the medieval town of Saturnia houses traditional Tuscan trattorias along its cobblestone streets serving dishes such as pici pasta with wild boar ragù. Unsurprisingly, the area is also known for its vineyards, making a post-soak wine tasting an ideal addition to your itinerary.

PHOTO: © VISIT HOT SPRINGS

HOT SPRINGS, ARKANSAS
At first glance, Hot Springs, Arkansas, may not fit the image of a picturesque hot spring retreat. Unlike the lush jungle pools of Costa Rica or mountain-view onsens of Japan, the hot springs here reside in historical bathhouses along Bathhouse Row, part of Hot Springs National Park. But what these springs lack in dramatic natural scenery they make up for in fascinating history and architectural elegance.

Hot Springs became a major wellness destination in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, drawing visitors to the healing properties of the thermal waters (some even had prescriptions to rest at Hot Springs). Today, restored grand bathhouses like Buckstaff Bathhouse and Quapaw Baths & Spa offer traditional thermal baths, steam treatments and hydrotherapy experiences unique from the spa culture of most international hot springs, though you can still find that, too. Don’t miss the 28,000-square- foot Fordyce Bathhouse, now the visitor center, for details like mosaic tile floors and a stained-glass dome among Renaissance Revival and Spanish architectural influence.

Beyond the bathhouses, Hot Springs National Park offers a chance to see the natural springs as they emerge from the earth. The Grand Promenade provides a scenic walkway behind Bathhouse Row, while the nearby observation tower offers panoramic views of the Ouachita Mountains.