Spas in Slovenia
When thinking about where to go for a relaxing spa break, Slovenia probably doesn’t feature on your list of possible places to go. And, to some extent, you’d be right in thinking that. However, in the past few years, Slovenia’s numerous spas have greatly improved – albeit some more than others. So, in this blog we are going to give you our honest opinion, warts and all, about spas in Slovenia; the great, the good, the bad and the ugh!
First things first, it’s important to know that many of Slovenia’s spas originally developed around natural thermal and mineral springs and were primarily focused on medical treatment and rehabilitation, rather than leisure tourism. They became well known for helping people recover after surgery, injuries or illness, often in partnership with the country’s healthcare system.
These days, many of the spas have become popular wellness destinations, however, if you choose the wrong one, or the wrong part of one, some of them still feel more like a medical centre than a place to relax and recharge.
We’ve experienced this ourselves when we booked a hotel at one of the spas, only to arrive, check in, head for dinner and find ourselves surrounded by people looking more like in-patients than your typical spa guests. We soon rectified this by booking the ‘premium’ option at the same spa, which was an entirely different experience, more the kind you would expect at a wellness centre.
.jpg)
So, our main message is always, and we mean always, opt for the best hotel at each spa, don’t try to skimp and save, as you will likely be disappointed.
That said, we have also had some excellent experiences at some of Slovenia’s spas, a few of which we’ve detailed below.
For adults, the best of is undoubtedly the Terme Olimia spa in Podčetrtek, which is widely regarded as Slovenia's premier wellness spa. Its award-winning Wellness Orhidelia has repeatedly been voted the country’s best wellness centre, thanks to its striking architecture, extensive sauna world, thermal pools and relaxing adults-only atmosphere.
The resort comprises a huge array of facilities including two hotels, an apartment hotel and a holiday village, the largest sauna world in Slovenia, two spa and beauty centres, a wellness and pool oasis, a health centre, a fitness centre, several cafes and restaurants and more.
As a side note, if you follow a gluten-free diet, Gostilna Lipa at Terme Olimia is a fully gluten-free restaurant. Upon prior arrangement, regardless of which accommodation you choose, you can arrange to have all meals there.
In close proximity to Terme Olimia and Podčetrtek is the village of Olimje, featuring the Olimje church, Minorite monastery and old pharmacy. You can read more about this in a previous blog post, written by one of our team:
The Terme Catež thermal spa is a big hit with kids due to its huge water park, as well as its proximity to the Croatian border. This place is HUGE, bigger than many of Slovenia’s villages, and has a staggering array of accommodation options.
Thermal springs were discovered here near the banks of the Sava River over 200 years ago and the power of the natural thermal water became the basis for the development of the spa.
If you have kids who love water, then you need look no further than Terme Čatež. In summer the Summer Thermal Riviera is the place to be. At over 10,000 m2 it is by far the largest outdoor pool complex far and wide. There is water-based fun in every shape, size and form. The covered Winter Thermal Riviera is open 365 days a year and particularly comes into its own, as the name suggests, in winter. It offers over 2,000 m2 of water with toboggans, slides and myriad other attractions.
Although not officially adults-only, the Rimske Terme spa has a distinctly adult atmosphere, and we didn’t see any children there when we visited. This is probably because it doesn’t have any water slides or family attractions, making it one of Slovenia’s quietest thermal spas and an excellent choice for couples or anyone looking to unwind in peaceful surroundings.
If you are reliant on public transport, Rimske Terme is a good choice; the railway line between Ljubljana and Zidani most runs through the valley. Our tip – if you are a light sleeper and don’t want the distant rumble of the (infrequent) trains to disturb your slumber, ask for a forest-facing room.
Before even entering the building, one’s attention is draw to the magnificent sequoia trees. Sequoia are not native to Slovenia; these trees were planted in 1879 as a tribute to the visit by Princess Victoria, heiress to the Prussian throne; the saplings were sent by the Royal Botanical Gardens in Kew.
Rogaška Slatina is arguably Slovenia’s most famous health resort, renowned for its mineral-rich water and specialist medical programmes. For many years it attracted large numbers of international visitors, particularly from Russia and other Eastern European countries, seeking treatment and rehabilitation. Today, while its clientele is more diverse, the town retains its elegant, old-world charm, with grand hotels, stately spa buildings and beautifully landscaped parks that recall its heyday as one of Europe's most prestigious
spa destinations. The surrounding area has a network of easy walking trails; while we were there, we hired a bike and cycled the largely traffic-free cycle route connecting the two spa towns of Rogaška Slatina and Podčetrtek.
Rogaška Slatina is inextricably linked with Donat Mg water, thus Balneotherapy plays a large part in treatments. Donat Mg water contains magnesium, which, even in small amounts, can contribute to the healing of various ailments. The miraculous power of Rogaška mineral water was first analysed by alchemists back in 1572. It is known to contain 1000 mg of magnesium per litre. The water, even direct from the spring, is mildly carbonated and has an unusual and distinctive, though not unpleasant, taste.
There are several other spas and wellness centres, each of them specialising in different treatments and offering various packages. More information can be found here:
Let Us Plan Your Perfect Spa Holiday
Whether you're looking for a relaxing two-night spa escape, a romantic couples' retreat or a week of complete indulgence, our Slovenia specialists can help create the perfect itinerary.
Thanks to our first-hand knowledge of Slovenia's spa resorts, we know which hotels offer the best wellness experiences and can recommend the ideal option to suit your budget and travel style. We can also combine your spa stay with time at Lake Bled, Ljubljana, the Julian Alps, the wine regions or the Adriatic coast, creating a tailor-made holiday that's as relaxing or as adventurous as you wish.
Get in touch with our friendly team today and let us help you plan your perfect spa holiday in Slovenia.
.png)
