The Luxurious, Historic Hungarian Bathhouses:
Unusual & Interesting Travel Destinations #6
by www.SixWise.com
Hungary is fast becoming one of the world's premier spa destinations,
but it has actually been popular since ancient times. The
Celts and then the Romans discovered this "land of abundant
waters," and they took advantage of the vast thermal
springs and waters for under-floor heating and regular bathing
at some of the first bathhouses.
|
The mineral-rich water of Lake Héviz is 85-90
degrees F, year-round.
|
Later, during the 150-year Turkish occupation of Hungary,
more elaborate bathhouses were constructed, some of which
are still standing today.
The Land of Healing Waters
Hungary is located in the Carpathian basin, in an area where
the Earth's crust is thin and thermal springs are abundant
(and can easily flow to the surface). The waters are rich
in natural minerals and are known for having therapeutic,
healing properties, particularly for rheumatic, inflammatory
and muscular ailments.
"Underneath some 80 percent of Hungarian territory you
can find some kind of medicinal waters," says Bela Pal,
a state secretary for the tourism office of the Prime Minister's
office.
The Hungarian National Tourism Office jokes that all you
have to do is poke a stick in the ground anywhere in Hungary
and up will come thermal water. The country is home to:
Spas and baths in Hungary are diverse. Some are historic
Turkish baths with elaborate domed ceilings; others are simple
bathhouses frequented by locals, while still others are part
of newly constructed luxurious hotels and resorts, or outdoor
lakes and springs.
Some of the Most Popular Spas and Bathhouses in Hungary
|
The Gellert Hotel in Budapest holds one of the most
historic and most elaborate bathhouses in Hungary.
|
No matter what type of bathhouse experience you are looking
for, chances are you can find it in Hungary at one of these
popular spa destinations (most of which are very affordable
compared to U.S. spa prices):
-
Lake Héviz: Located about three hours outside
of Budapest, Lake Héviz is the largest thermal
lake in Europe and the second-largest in the world. It
boasts 85-90 degree F, mineral-rich water year-round.
Fed by hot and cold mineral springs from a cave below
the surface, the water is mildly radioactive and said
to ease rheumatism and help with relaxation. The waters
of Lake Héviz are said to be so powerful that it's
recommended you only soak for 20 minutes at a time.
-
The historic baths of the Gellert Hotel: Located
in Budapest, the Gellert Hotel has one of the most well-known
and elaborate bathhouses in the area. It's known for its
art-nouveau design, complete with spiral marble columns,
lion statues that spout water and an ornate steel and
glass-domed ceiling. There is an outdoor sunbathing area
and wave pool, along with a thermal pool that is filled
with jets. Steam baths, massages and other spa treatments
are also available.
-
Szechenyi Furdo: Also in Budapest, Szechenyi Furdo
is a large public spa that is popular with the locals.
Housed in a neo-baroque structure, the spa has an indoor
thermal pool, steam baths, several outdoor pools (one
more quiet, others with jets and waterfalls) and massage
services.
To Plan a Trip ...
Interested in planning a trip to Hungary's thermal waters?
Check out these informative links:
Sources
Globeandmail.com
Expatica.com
Guardian
Unlimited