Soaking in naturally warm mineral water while snow falls around you is one of winter’s most magical travel experiences. Across the world, there are hot springs tucked into volcanoes, perched beside frozen lakes, and surrounded by quiet alpine forests. These eight destinations offer unforgettable views, soothing water, and reliable year-round access.
Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa
Location: Grindavík, Iceland
The Blue Lagoon is famous for its bright blue, mineral-rich water that stays warm even on Iceland’s coldest days. Surrounded by black lava rock and rising steam, the lagoon feels otherworldly in winter. Visitors can enjoy silica masks, a swim-up bar, and quiet corners tucked among the rocks. Long winter hours make it possible to soak during sunrise or under the glow of the northern lights.
Banff Upper Hot Springs
Location: Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Banff Upper Hot Springs offers classic Canadian winter scenery. The outdoor pool sits high in the Rockies and looks out toward snow-covered peaks and forested slopes. The water stays warm and inviting, making it a welcome contrast to the crisp mountain air. Changing facilities, rentals, and nearby cafés make this one of the easiest and most scenic winter soaking spots in North America.
Pamukkale Thermal Pools
Location: Pamukkale, Turkey
Pamukkale’s white travertine terraces and turquoise pools are stunning year-round, but winter gives the landscape a quiet, dreamlike quality. Warm mineral water flows through shallow basins that cascade down the hillside. Visitors can soak in designated areas, explore nearby Hierapolis, and visit Cleopatra’s Spring, where ancient ruins rest beneath the warm water. Cooler temperatures and lighter crowds make winter one of the best times to visit.
Chena Hot Springs
Location: Fairbanks, Alaska, USA
Chena Hot Springs combines geothermal warmth with wild Alaskan scenery. The outdoor lake-like pool remains steaming and comfortable even when the surrounding landscape drops far below freezing. Winter also brings the chance to see the Northern Lights dancing over the water. The property includes an ice museum, dog sledding tours, and cozy lodging, creating a complete winter escape.
Terme di Saturnia
Location: Tuscany, Italy
Terme di Saturnia features naturally formed limestone pools that overflow with warm, mineral-rich water. Winter mornings are especially beautiful as steam rises into the cool air and soft light hits the cascading pools. The site is fed by a volcanic spring that keeps the water consistently warm. With fewer visitors in winter, the atmosphere is calm and peaceful.
Pagosa Springs
Location: Pagosa Springs, Colorado, USA
Pagosa Springs is home to some of the deepest geothermal aquifers in the world, and the town offers multiple soaking areas along the San Juan River. Winter is spectacular here, with snowy riverbanks, rising steam, and mountain views all around. The Springs Resort features dozens of terraced pools with varying temperatures, including some right beside the flowing river, while free public soaking spots offer a budget-friendly alternative. This is one of the most atmospheric winter soaking destinations in the United States.
Lake Kussharo Hot Springs (Kotou no Yu)
Location: Akan Mashu National Park, Hokkaido, Japan
Lake Kussharo is a serene winter destination where natural hot springs sit right on the edge of a frozen caldera lake. The open-air pools offer quiet views of snowy mountains and ice formations along the shore. Swans gather near the warm water during winter, adding to the peaceful setting. The springs are free to visit and provide an authentic outdoor soaking experience in one of Japan’s most beautiful national parks.
Glenwood Hot Springs Resort
Location: Glenwood Springs, Colorado
Glenwood Hot Springs is home to a massive mineral pool that stays warm even when the Rockies are blanketed in snow. The combination of fresh mountain air and naturally heated water makes winter one of the best times to visit. A smaller therapy pool offers higher temperatures for deeper relaxation. With year-round access and mountain views from the water, Glenwood is a classic choice for a cozy winter soak.
