![]() ![]() Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world, and the second-oldest European capital city after Athens, predating other modern European capitals by centuries. Lisbon is recognised as an alpha-level global city because of its importance in finance, commerce, media, entertainment, arts, international trade, education and tourism. In a day or two you’ll feel and look like a new person.The westernmost portions of its metro area, the Portuguese Riviera, form the westernmost point of Continental Europe, culminating at Cabo da Roca. There are also quiet retreats in the countryside or deep in the forest that combine relaxing therapies with picturesque landscapes. New Zealand’s larger cities offer luxurious day spas that make an ideal addition to your holiday. While very rare, this illness is serious. When swimming in natural hot pools, where the water comes out of the ground, keep your head above water because there is a small risk of contracting an illness called amoebic meningitis. A drinking fountain lets you ‘taste the waters’, which are believed to promote wellbeing (the fountain of youth?) and the town’s domain features the world’s only hot soda water geyser. Modernised to resort standard, these pools retain the charm of the Edwardian era. Te Aroha Mineral Spas are located south of Auckland, beneath Mt Te Aroha. Just follow the Kaitoke Hot Springs walking track from Whangaparapara Road. Great Barrier IslandĮast of Auckland in the farthest reaches of the Hauraki Gulf is Great Barrier Island, where you can hike to a magical free-of-charge hot pool experience deep in the forest. Amazing! This hot soak is totally free-of-charge, unless you need to rent a spade from the local store. A couple of hours either side of high tide, you can dig your own spa pool then lie back and watch the waves breaking on the beach. With sculpted pools and soothing waterfalls framed by native forest, the Lost Spring promises a very picturesque soaking experience.ĭown the coast from Whitianga is Hot Water Beach, where heated water bubbles up through the sand. The Lost Spring (opens in new window) near Whitianga on the Coromandel Peninsula harnesses crystal clear water that flows from a hot water spring 600 metres below the earth’s surface. During the spring thaw you can lie back in the hot water and watch avalanches cascading down the mountains. The pools are a short walk from the hut and have one of the best wilderness views in New Zealand. Beginning south of Fox Glacier, follow the Copland Track for seven hours until you come to a Department of Conservation (DOC) hut and campsite (you’ll need to make a booking with DOC to stay the night). The most southern free soak can be found at Welcome Flat in Westland, but you’ll have to work for it. Or soak in fresh mountain water and glorious alpine views at the outdoor Omarma Hot Tubs, just 90 minutes from Aoraki/Mount Cook. If you'd like the unique experience of bathing in heated glacial waters, head to Tekapo Springs (opens in new window). Beauty and massage treatments put the finishing touches on your relaxation. At Hanmer you’ll find thermal mineral, sulphur and freshwater pools, as well as a large children's activity area with water slides. However the huge Alpine Fault that created the Southern Alps has done the world a favour with Hanmer Springs (opens in new window), an all-seasons hot spring resort that regularly wins awards for its facilities. ![]() There are fewer hot springs in the South Island, which has very different geography to the North Island. If you're looking for a thermal soak and massage in a quiet setting, head to Wairakei Terraces and if you’d like to explore some of the region’s thermal pools without pulling out your wallet, head along to either the Lake Terrace or Spa Park. Long time local favourite, Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs (opens in new window) offers heated indoor and outdoor pools while Tokaanu Thermal Pools offer private and public hot pool experiences. Lake Taupō is home to a range of naturally-heated hot pools - perfect for a relaxing soak after a busy day of exploring. There is a good old Kiwi corrugated-iron changing shed here, which adds to the rustic ambience. It has sealed walkways, toilets and changing rooms.Ī free treat near Lake Rotowhero is Kerosene Creek, which has a hot waterfall and a clean pool with a sandy bottom. Rated highly by regular soakers, this free-of-charge pool is owned and maintained by the Rotorua District Council. Near Reporoa is a hot spring called Butcher’s Pool. You’ll also find a selection of hot pool complexes, including Hells Gate and the Polynesian Spa. In Rotorua, a city built on top of an active volcanic zone, nearly every accommodation establishment offers private, exchange-heated spa pools.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |