Summer Soaker: Where to Cool Down, Heat Up, and Float Free This Season
Summer Soaker: Where to Cool Down, Heat Up, and Float Free This Season
As the northern summer unfolds, many travelers seek the classic cooling remedies: shaded terraces, clinking glasses, a stretch of sea or stream. But for those in pursuit of something deeper — a more restorative, immersive summer experience — thermal travel takes on a new, almost paradoxical allure. In the season of light and heat, a thoughtful dance between warm waters, salt breezes, and cooling plunge becomes an art of contrast. Welcome to the world of summer soaking.
Take it from us, a balneario summer offers the best of all worlds, poolside deck chairs, cold plunges and a calm, curated alternative to the beachside frenzy. Our summer residence is in Spa Valley 2, Archena, just a short walk to the historic Balneario de Archena (see our Archena feature here) where sun-drenched lounging meets mineral immersion, and the cold drinks and ice creams are in plentiful supply.
Residencia Palm Springs is available to rent outside the summer months - check it out here
The Thermal Logic of Summer
At first glance, hot springs and saunas may seem like the province of winter. But in many thermal cultures — from Japan to Hungary to northern Portugal — summer is a celebrated time for water rituals. Alternating between warm and cold, salt and fresh, creates a balancing effect on the body: stimulating circulation, easing fatigue, and encouraging deep release. The practice of thalassotherapy, in particular, thrives now, combining seawater, algae, and marine climate for therapeutic effect.
The key is contrast. A geothermal soak followed by a bracing plunge. A warm salt wrap under the sun, then a cool ocean dip. A steam cave visit before a mountain breeze. This is hydrotherapy as nature intended: a conversation between elements.
A New Frontier: Ski Resorts that Soak in Summer
While winter draws skiers and snowboarders to the Alps and Pyrenees, summer quietly transforms these landscapes into open-air sanctuaries of wellness and calm. Once the snow melts, infrastructure like hotels, lifts, and spas remain — often underbooked and undervalued. What emerges is a sweet spot for slow travel: alpine air, expansive trails, and thermal springs at off-peak prices.
Mont-Dore, France
Nestled in the Massif Central, Mont-Dore is a thermal town first and a ski resort second. Its Roman-rooted waters are rich in sodium bicarbonate and iron, long known to support respiratory and rheumatic health. Summer reveals a quieter side, with green volcanoes, valley hikes, and a relaxed rhythm well suited to therapeutic bathing.
Bad Hofgastein, Austria
A jewel of the Gastein Valley, Bad Hofgastein blends alpine air and ancient thermal wisdom. The Alpentherme Gastein spa is a standout — six zones of thermal pools, mountain saunas, and family-friendly wellness. In summer, the surrounding SalzburgerLand becomes a hiking paradise, and the pace slows to match.
La Féclaz, France
Tucked in the Bauges Mountains, La Féclaz is an insider’s pick. Known for Nordic skiing in winter, it shifts into a haven of walking trails and wellness come summer. Nearby Aix-les-Bains offers historic thermal bathing at Thermes Chevalley, while the resort itself retains an alpine stillness perfect for recharging.
Bansko, Bulgaria
Bulgaria’s best-known winter resort has a secret: it’s even more inviting when the lifts are still. Summer in Bansko means mountain culture, affordable spa hotels, and the neighbouring thermal village of Banya, where 27 mineral springs bubble year-round. Combine hiking in the Pirin Mountains with therapeutic immersion.
La Tzoumaz, Switzerland
Sharing terrain with Verbier but none of the frenzy, La Tzoumaz is a quiet contender. Its summer draw includes wildflower meadows, elevated bisse walks, and proximity to the Valais region’s famed thermal baths. Unhurried and underpriced, it’s ideal for those craving heat and hush in equal measure.
Where to Soak and Float Beyond the Alps
Vichy, France
Famed for its Belle Époque spa architecture and curative mineral waters, Vichy transforms in summer. Gentle spray treatments, hydro-massage pools, and thermal facials blend seamlessly with shaded parks and riverside walks. The town’s commitment to holistic health offers a slower, sensorial escape from urban heat.
Saturnia, Italy
The steamy cascades of Saturnia remain one of Tuscany’s most atmospheric sites. In summer, their early morning mist and dappled afternoon light offer cinematic serenity. The sulphur-rich waters stay around 37.5°C year-round, but the surrounding countryside and vineyard lunches make it a perfect warm-season retreat.
Hôtel Les Roches Rouges, Côte d’Azur
A shining example of modern thalassotherapy spirit, this sea-front retreat in Saint-Raphaël features natural seawater pools carved into rock, curated algae treatments, and minimalist design that lets the Med do the talking. It’s summer indulgence, pared back to essentials.
Blue Lagoon Retreat, Iceland
Midnight sun meets milky blue waters. While the idea of geothermal soaking in summer may seem counterintuitive, Iceland’s constant daylight and cooling air make it magical. The silica-rich waters, surrounding lava fields, and private spa suites offer a sense of solitude rarely found in peak travel months.
Summer Rituals to Travel With
Pack for shifts in temperature. A lightweight robe, water shoes, and a linen cover-up go far.
Plan for early or late. Dawn and dusk are ideal for soaking, with fewer crowds and softer light.
Pair your soak. Follow with a swim, a forest walk, a mineral-rich meal. Let the ritual extend.
Drink local. Thermal towns often boast spring-fed mineral waters or regional wines to match the moment.
This summer, consider a different kind of immersion. One that goes beyond the beach towel and into the transformative interplay of heat and water, rest and motion. Whether you seek the salt-laced breezes of the coast or the alpine hush of a hidden spring, let your travels flow with the rhythm of summer soaking.
