The Best Sustainable Hot Springs
In The World

The global interest in natural hot springs is undeniable, and it’s easy to see why. These hot springs have therapeutic benefits for health and wellness, as well as the added satisfaction of complete relaxation. As an eco friendly traveler you will want to visit hot springs that are run sustainably, and not all of them are run with eco friendly practices in mind. This list of the best sustainable hot springs in the world is a great place to start. 

What Makes Hot Springs Sustainable?

Simply put, the eco-friendly practices of these hot springs is what makes them sustainable. Many of these hot springs harness geothermal energy, farm right on site, and recycle and compost everything they can. Making these the best hot springs to visit if you are looking for sustainable travel options.

1. Blue Lagoon, Iceland 

The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is world famous for its intensely blue hue and surrounding beauty. This is one of the top hot springs in the world and is renowned for its healing and rejuvenating powers. Rest your eyes on the moss covered lava fields and stunning volcanic landscape that helps to heat the waters while you relax. 

In terms of sustainability, the Blue Lagoon was named the Icelandic Environmental Company Of The Year in 2021. It is a paragon of renewable energy and eco-friendly health and wellbeing. The geothermal energy in this natural hot spring  is harnessed as the sole source of electricity and hot water for the entire lagoon. You can find out more about the Blue Lagoons sustainable practices here. 

2. Castle Hot Springs, Arizona, U.S. 

Castle Hot Springs in Arizona is recognized as one of the top luxury outdoor destinations in the U.S. These magnificent natural hot spring pools have been visited by indigenous people, tourists, and dignitaries, who all found this remote desert oasis undeniably beautiful. 

Castle Hot Springs was awarded the Sustainable Certificate by the Arizona Sustainability Alliance. This place is committed to having a low impact on the environment. They farm their own produce onsite, compost all green waste, and use drip irrigation practices for landscaping and farming. Making Castle Hot Springs one of the best hot springs in terms of sustainability. Find more about Castle Hot Springs sustainability here. 

3. Arenal Manoa Hot Springs, Costa Rica 

These hot springs feed off the heat of the still active Arenal Volcano, and can be found hidden in the rainforest just below, making this one of the more unique hot springs in the world. There are 11 different baths with a wide variety of temperatures and healing properties. 

Arenal Manoa belongs to the Sustainable Tourism Program of the Costa Rica Tourism Board. They have rigorous standards when it comes to sustainability including the reduction in consumption and waste materials, water and energy, as well as, recycling. Arenal Manoa also involves the local community with education and environmental awareness. Find more on Arenal Manoa’s sustainable practices here. 

4. Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa, New Zealand

Hanmer Springs on New Zealand’s South Island is known as one of the most special spots in the country, making it one of the best hot springs in NZ.  Hanmer Springs has a range of pools that includes a relaxing rock pool and a soothing sulfur pool, all heated perfectly by mother nature.

Hanmer Hot Springs was awarded the coveted Qualmark 100% Pure New Zealand Experience Award for their sustainable tourism practices. They strive to look after both the community and environment by sustainably conserving their thermal water resources. They are adding 5 new pools to the complex and taking a sustainable approach to powering and operating the pools. Find out more about Hanmer Springs sustainability here. 

Visiting natural hot springs is a great way to travel sustainably. They are the perfect compromise between being outdoors and the promise of complete relaxation. While these aren’t the only eco-friendly hot springs, these are the best sustainable hot springs in the world and they are all great places to relax.  

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