The World’s Most Scenic Outdoor Soaking Spots: Global Edition

The World’s Most Scenic Outdoor Soaking Spots: Global Edition

We’ve travelled the world in search of the perfect soak, so as we approach the northern hemisphere holidays, we thought we’d bring you our favourite outdoor soak destinations we’ve been to, and the ones on our wish list.

There is something undeniably primal about an outdoor soak. In the right setting, a thermal pool becomes more than a retreat, it becomes a lens through which we remember how to breathe deeper, look longer, and feel smaller in the best possible way.

This list is a celebration of those places. These are our best of the best — and we’ve been at this game for so long, a number of these pre-date digital photography… so pardon the stock images! First 6 are our faves, then 4 for the future!

1. Devil’s Pool, Victoria Falls, Zambia

This is by far the most extreme soak we’ve ever done — or ever will. Accessible only in the dry season and under (less than) expert local guidance, Devil’s Pool perches at the very edge of Victoria Falls. With the thunder of the Zambezi in your ears, and nothing between you and a 100-metre drop but a rock lip, it’s surreal, exhilarating, and surprisingly peaceful in the moment.

2. Aguas Termales de Chacapi, Peru

The road into Colca Canyon is not for the faint-hearted — think switchbacks, altitude, and sheer drops — but it delivers one of the most atmospheric soaks we've had. Set beside the Colca River near Yanque, these rustic pools offer a high-altitude stillness that pairs perfectly with coca tea and the occasional eagle overhead – for the big condors – you can see them from the top of Colca.

3. Yudanaka Onsen, Japan

We arrived early, snow falling lightly, and outwaited almost everyone else as it didn’t appear the monkeys were coming. As the day was fading, first one brave little one, then another – then the whole monkey troupe descended - slowly, confidently, as if on cue. Their steam-shrouded bath beside us made for one of the most intimate, memorable moments of all our thermal travels. Add to that inns serving guests since the 7th century, with private onsens so hot the experience was psychedelic…and it’s a destination we’ll never forget.

4. Mount Huangshan Hot Springs, China

After climbing the endless stairs of Yellow Mountain, first in mystical mist with 1 metre visibility, then later with hundreds of miles any direction, our legs begged for a soak. The pools at the base, infused with everything from citrus to red wine, felt like a reward not just for the hike, but for being curious enough to come. Surrounded by pine and mist, it’s equal parts strange and sublime.

5. Banff Upper Hot Springs, Canada

This one comes with snow. Perched high in the Rockies, Banff’s hot springs are a tonic after any mountain day. We've soaked here in minus temperatures with steam rising, cheeks flushed, and a view that reminds you Canada knows how to do winter properly.

6. Pamukkale, Turkey

We visited back when photos came in envelopes. Still, no image has done it justice. The travertine terraces look sculpted for gods, but feel welcoming to all. Warm waters flow gently underfoot as you gaze across the valley, with ancient ruins just a short walk away.

7. Arenal Volcano Region, Costa Rica (bucket list — missed it by just a few hours)

We almost made it, but nature had other plans. Still, it’s top of our revisit list. Hot springs abound here — some luxurious, some wild. Baldi’s 25 pools are unmatched for variety, but we’ve got our eyes on Tabacón for a proper soak and stay. Tabacón | Baldi

8. Takaragawa Onsen, Japan (wishlist)

Tucked into the snowy mountains of Gunma, this onsen is said to offer one of the most picturesque winter soaks in the country. Wide outdoor baths, a quiet riverside setting, and snowfall make it a dream we’ve yet to tick off.

9. Termas Geométricas, Chile (wishlist)

This one’s a design lover’s dream — and firmly on our list. Nestled in a gorge in Villarica National Park, the red walkways and natural pools offer both structure and serenity. We imagine it’s the sort of place that changes your pace within minutes.

10. Moulay Yacoub, Morocco (wishlist)

Morocco’s best-known thermal site sits outside Fez, offering sulphur-rich waters and views of rolling hills. We haven’t made it yet, but the idea of open-air village soaks and mint tea afterward feels like the perfect northern Africa interlude.

Soak Well, Travel Light

Outdoor soaking is about more than water — it’s about slowing down. These are the places that help you do that, wherever you are in the world.