Hot springs, thermal baths, and spas in Portugal offer a perfect way to relax, especially in winter. As Christmas approaches, consider a unique plan by immersing yourself in the soothing warmth of these rejuvenating escapes.
Relax in some of the most beautiful "termas" in Portugal
Relax in some of the most beautiful "termas" in Portugal Nuno Antunes on Unsplash

Every now and then, we all crave a break from our everyday routine, and we've got just the thing: a trip to one of Portugal's top hot springs or spas. While hot springs, known as "termas," were traditionally associated with senior citizens and used for addressing specific health concerns, they've undergone a transformation. While still offering therapeutic benefits from their mineral-rich waters, these termas are now designed to provide a complete wellness experience for people of all ages.

In the spirit of December and with Christmas just around the corner, the idea of organizing a weekend getaway to a spa sounds more appealing than ever. We're here to assist you in selecting the perfect destination for this rejuvenating escape. It's time to embrace your zen mode and indulge in one of these six fantastic "termas" to unwind in Portugal.

Termas de Vidago

One of the treatment rooms at the Vidago Spa
One of the treatment rooms at the Vidago Spa Flickr

The Vidago Palace Resort is a luxury five-star hotel with a Belle Époque style, that includes a fabulous thermal spa. Surrounded by incredible green forests and a minimalist atmosphere, a visit to these facilities is a relaxing and unforgettable experience. 

Designed by the renowned architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, this spa boasts two pools, saunas, Turkish baths, ice fountains, sensorial showers, a gym, and over 20 rooms dedicated to beauty, wellness, and therapeutic treatments.

Recognized for aiding those with digestive disorders, allergies, asthma, and migraines, the spa has earned prestigious accolades, including the "Best Luxury Destination Spa" at the World of Luxury Spa Awards. It was named one of the world's best hotel spas by Condé Nast Johannsen’s Luxury Spas in 2015 and 2016. Notably, access to the spa is available to both hotel guests and those staying in local accommodations such as short-term rentals on Rentalia.

Termas do Luso

The fantastic Grande Hotel do Luso
The fantastic Grande Hotel do Luso Flickr

In the heart of the Buçaco mountains in central Portugal you can find the Luso hot springs. This modern, refined and minimalistic spa is perfect for people who want to take care of themselves inside and out.

The spa is included in the Grande Hotel do Luso complex, combining the stunning historic hotel with a more modern space that includes the hot spring spa and a rehabilitation medical centre, the Malo Clinic Spa Luso.

Discover a haven for health and well-being at these Portuguese hot springs, specifically beneficial for metabolic disorders, urinary tract issues, muscular system challenges, and chronic respiratory diseases. Alternatively, indulge in relaxation with the spa's diverse beauty treatments. The natural surroundings of Luso provide an ideal setting for achieving harmony between body, mind, and soul.

Moreover, all spa facilities at the Grande Hotel do Luso are accessible to everyone, not just hotel guests. Short-term rentals offer a budget-friendly option for those seeking this rejuvenating experience.

Termas do Gêres

The entrace to the "Termas dos Gêres" complex
The entrace to the "Termas dos Gêres" complex Flickr

The entire area of the Peneda-Gêres Natural Park in Northern Portugal is renowned for its tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. A visit to a hot spring spa nestled in the heart of this natural haven promises to be one of the most incredible experiences of your life.

The Gêres Thermal Spa in Portugal is not just a retreat; it's a preventative measure against illnesses. Advocating the therapeutic use of mineral waters, it aids in cellular regeneration and provides relief for conditions such as obesity, gout, and diabetes. Additionally, the facility offers more conventional spa treatments, including beauty treatments, massages, and options tailored for couples.

Can you imagine yourself surrounded by sparkling lakes, impressive mountains, the best services and equipment? Treat yourself and don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a few days of rest in a country house in the Peneda-Gêres National Park.

Termas de Unhais da Serra

One of the spectacular pools you can find at the spa complex
One of the spectacular pools you can find at the spa complex Flickr

In the middle of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, you will find the Mountain Spa Aquadome, integrated into the H2otel Congress & Medical Spa in Unhais da Serra. This is a health and wellness destination that offers many therapeutic and beauty treatments centred on physical and spiritual rehabilitation.

As the first Portuguese mountain spa and one of Europe's largest, this facility stands out. It's divided into distinct sections: AquaTermas, specializing in respiratory diseases; AquaFisio, featuring an impressive osteopathic and physiotherapy center; AquaCorpus, combining oriental and western cosmetic techniques; and AquaLudic, boasting themed pools. A visit promises a truly incredible experience, making it one of the finest spas in Portugal for a relaxing escape.

Termas das Caldas de Monchique

The Villa Termal das Caldas de Monchique Spa Resort viewed from above
The Villa Termal das Caldas de Monchique Spa Resort viewed from above Flickr

All of our "termas" have been in the northern half of the country so far, but the South of Portugal also has its own spa destination: the Villa Termal das Caldas de Monchique Spa Resort is a wellness destination located in the Algarve. According the resort itself, it is "the only Thermal Spa in the Algarve and the South of Portugal!"

These hot springs boast waters rich in bicarbonates, sodium, and fluorine, offering therapeutic benefits for muscular pain, diseases, and respiratory illnesses. A visit to this delightful spa is a journey to enhance your well-being, whether for relaxation or indulging in cosmetic treatments.

Should you wish to prolong your stay and bask in the spa experience, consider lodging in the hotel within the same complex. Alternatively, for those desiring more time to explore the surroundings, charming holiday homes in the region provide a wonderful option.

Furnas, the Azores

Furnas
Wikimedia commons

Our final destination takes us to the Azores to discover one of the best natural hot springs in Portugal. The volcanic origins of São Miguel Island make the area a thermal paradise, and Furnas is home to one of the best examples of steamy, iron-rich pools that are surrounded by lush vegetation and tropical trees. 

In Furnas, Azores, where various thermal pools and hot springs abound, the Furnas thermal pool is a standout. Immerse yourself in hot water surrounded by subtropical Atlantic forest greenery—palms, ferns, and conifers—creating a truly unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience.