Great Victorian Bathing Trail
The state of Victoria is fast becoming world renowned for its elevated range of hot spring facilities which host elegant eateries, world-class spa treatment rooms, mindfulness activities and impeccable architecturally designed exteriors. Currently encompassing eight facilities, the Great Victorian Bathing Trail, will grow to become a 900km (559 mile) wellness route connecting numerous sea baths and hot and mineral springs. With a range of affordable and luxury experiences on offer, this ever-growing trail invites travellers to connect with nature whatever their budget. From the sustainable and chic Alba Thermal Springs and the large-scale Peninsula Hot Springs, both on the Mornington Peninsula, to the soon to launch 12 Apostles Hot Springs which will feature at least 150 luxury eco-pods, the Bathing Trail invites travellers to explore the Victorian coastline in soothing serenity.
Cunnamulla Hot Springs, Queensland
Located over 750 kilometres (477 miles) south west of Brisbane/Meeanjin, stroll into an outback oasis at Cunnamulla Hot Springs on the banks beside the Warrego River. Opening at the end of 2023, under the shade of quintessential Australian eucalyptus trees, the Cunnamulla precinct has a range of hot springs and free spas which help detoxify your mind and body through its naturally heated mineral-rich artesian water. Come nightfall, bathe in the serenity of an outback starry night as the geothermal waters heat you.
Soak Bathhouse, Queensland
Located in Brisbane/Meeanjin’s thriving urban centre, West End, Soak Bathhouse is quickly becoming beloved by Queenslanders as a hub for social connection and soothing soaks. Overlooking the West End streetscape, Soak Bathhouse has been designed by husband and wife duo Niki and Alexis Dean as a place for city dwellers and travellers alike to swap the hustle and bustle for micro doses of affordable wellness. At Soak Bathhouse, patrons can bathe in heated mineral spas, take a cold plunge, opt for a massage or lounge amidst the tropical surroundings.
Zebedee Springs, Western Australia
Only a short stroll through the prehistoric forest of Livistona filled with pandanus palms, embark on a naturally heated oasis in the heart of Kimberley’s ancient landscape, El Questro Station. To enjoy the calming thermal pools and waterfalls, Zebedee springs is open to the general public from 7am – noon, and is exclusively accessible to El Questro Homestead guests in the afternoon.
Hastings Thermal Springs, Tasmania
Located south of Hobart/nipaluna in Tasmania’s Wilderness World Heritage Area, enjoy natural and historic thermal pools, which were first opened to the public in 1939. Surrounding the pools are two easy nature walks from the pool area, inviting guests to discover Hastings Cave’s surrounding greenery and local wildlife such as platypus and wallabies. The pools have facilities including a visitor centre, kiosk and souvenir shop. For travellers seeking more adventure, guided tours of the largest dolomite cave open to visitors in Australia are available at Newdegate Cave.
Bitter Springs – Katherine, Northern Territory
Located only two kilometres (1.2 miles) away from the small town of Mataranka, south of Katherine, Bitter Springs offers a serene set of spring-fed thermal pools nestled within the tropical woodlands of Elsey National Park. Visitors can enjoy a scenic walk through historical sites before dipping in the sacred springs.
National Heritage Place – Witjira-Dalhousie Springs, Northern Territory
Located in the incredible outback landscape in Witjira National Park, Witjira-Dalhousie Springs is one of the largest groundwater springs on earth. Visitors can discover a complex of ‘mound’ springs which offer calcium and mineral-rich waters to bathe in. Located around a five to six hour drive from Alice Springs, Witjira-Dalhousie Springs is considered as part of Australia’s National Heritage list and acts as an integral part of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander tradition in this part of the country.
