what is thermal tourism

• Thermal Congress 2023 - Location: Centre Prouvé, 54000 Nancy (France)

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connected to “Rencontres Internationales du Thermalisme et du Bien-Être” by Fédération Thermale et Climatique Francaise (on 8th November)

NEW OPENING - NANCY THERMAL

With NANCY THERMAL a new center for health and wellbeing has opened in April 2023, reconnecting the ducal city of Nancy with its past and thermal baths. This new complex offers sport, leisure, wellness and wellbeing activities. Everyone can benefit from the thermal water - public, guests and patients. 

IN THE HEART OF EUROPE

Nancy is located in the Grand Est Region, France's most European region, bordering four countries (Luxemburg, Belgium, Germany, Switzerland). It is easy to access from all directions.  The congress venue, Nancy Thermal, is located in the center of the city, another unique fact!  

INTERNATIONAL AUDIENCE

The International Congress on Thermal Tourism will be connected to the French Meetings of Thermalism, making it a great opportunity for all delegates to meet and enjoy the programme together. 

The European Historic Thermal Towns Association (EHTTA) is contributing to UNWTO’s Programme of Work 2023 with its next “International Congress on Thermal Tourism”:  After a successful congress in Ourense (Spain) in September 2022, the aim is to organise this forum for experts and tourism professionals in heritage, tourism and experience regularly in the coming years.

In 2023 the event will take place in Nancy (France) .

The International Congress on Thermal Tourism 1999  (Mondariz-Balneario, Spain)  was organised by the World Tourism Organisation, Tourspain and the Xunta de Galicia (Member of EHTTA).

The International Congress on Thermal Tourism 2011 (Ourense, Spain) was organised by the same partners and also with the collaboration of the municipality of Ourense and the Government of the Ourense Province.

With EHTTA as UNWTO Affiliate Member a new format and level of the International Congress on Thermal Tourism was organised. 270 participants from over 20 countries met in Ourense, Galicia (Spain).

SUSTAINABLE THERMAL DESTINATIONS FOR THE FUTURE

Thermal tourism is considered to be one of those fields of tourism which could experience the greatest growth after the end of the COVID-19 pandemic . Tourists will be looking for wellness experiences, immersing themselves in the destinations and interacting with local inhabitants. It is necessary to explore connections with other cultural and natural resources to create new and better sustainable thermal products.

Thermal Tourism is a powerful tool to contribute to safeguard the world's thermal heritage (natural, cultural and intangible) and to provide socio-economic benefits, including the dynamisation of rural areas and the creation of stable employment and income-earning opportunities. Thermal tourism needs to be recognised as an instrument for sustainable development and as a model for other tourism sectors or products.

Sustainability Practices

These experiences will review key elements of sustainable practices on energy and water management and its impacts on people’s quality of life.

Global Challenges

Global Marketing is no easy endeavor. We will see different perspectives to learn from for those looking to branch out their destination to foreign markets.

Transnational Cooperation

Cross border cooperation is an essential step to create successful thermal destinations. We will analyze key performance indicators following economic and social scenarios.

INTERNATIONAL PRESS

Geographical breakdown 2022.

Argelia / Argentina / Belgium / Brazil / Colombia / Costa Rica / Croatia / Czech Republic / Ecuador / Estonia / Finland / France / Georgia / Germany / Greece / Hungary / Italy / Latvia / Lithuania / Luxembourg / Mexico / Morocco / Netherlands / Paraguay / Portugal / Romania / Spain / Tunisi a/ Ukraine / United Kingdom / United States / Uruguay

Americas (29)

Europe (256)

LOCATION OF THE TOURISM CONGRESS

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Nancy (France) [email protected] 

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Immerse Yourself in the Spa Culture of Europe

Since ancient times, people have been drawn to hot mineral springs, the healing waters that bubble to the surface in the heart of each of Europe’s spa towns. These places, with their long, unrivalled tradition of welcoming guests, have been centers of health and well-being for centuries, shaping a spa culture that is a unique part of European heritage.  

The story of the European Route of Historic Thermal Towns is woven into the fabric of Europe and its people. Spa towns play a significant part in Europe’s shared history, memory, society and traditions, and as a Cultural Route of the Council of Europe this cultural heritage is recognized and celebrated.  In 2021, eleven towns in seven countries became a single UNESCO World Heritage Site: the “ Great Spa Towns of Europe ”.   

Once you have been to some of our Historic Thermal Towns and enjoyed experiences designed to soothe and revitalize body, mind and spirit, we think you might just become a convert to a way of life that has been captivating visitors from all walks of life for centuries!   

Thermal towns were the first tourism destinations, and with cultural facilities and architecture to rival many capital cities, you can enjoy a wide variety of activities when not relaxing in thermal waters , strolling near the springs, or sipping water from special drinking cups.  Our towns have been connected to the rail network since its earliest days, and arrival by train is not only traditional here, but sustainable , too.    

So , what is “spa culture”, and how can you immerse yourself in it? Start by ‘taking the waters’: hot, cold, sparkling, green, salty or laden with minerals – our springs are unique to each town, and reflect the long journey that every individual drop has made – sometimes taking thousands of years! In spa towns they are used for bathing, drinking, or inhalation , and you can even enjoy them mixed with clays and muds to produce special therapeutic treatments.

Look out for our impressive “thermal architecture”, built to contain the all-important sources, but also to inspire awe: baths and pump rooms, colonnades and drinking halls, many of which are grand and ornate , some even resembling palaces. Stay in one of our fantastic grand hotels, or search out more intimate boutique hotels, some of which are former villas, set in exquisite gardens.  

Follow in some famous footsteps! Royalty, politicians and some of the most celebrated musicians, artists and writers who ever lived are associated with our towns – echoes of their visits can be found in statues and place names.    

Combine culture and a spa visit for the ultimate weekend break! Spa visitors of the past stayed for weeks and even months at a time, so it was essential that they had plenty to do.  These days you too can enjoy theatre, opera, art galleries, casinos and museums.  It’s no accident that some of Europe’s most prestigious music, literature, film and sporting festivals developed in spa towns.    

We pride ourselves on our beautiful landscapes – stroll through beautifully manicured parks and romantic “English” gardens, or head out with your hiking boots to the surrounding “therapeutic spa landscape”.  With their green spaces and fresh air, gastronomy and great local wines, spa towns are perfect for enjoying a relaxed pace of life.  Don’t forget your bathrobe!    

We look forward to welcoming you soon!  

Things to consider before traveling

How to choose your accommodation in europe: a guide.

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How to convert cash, use cards, and reduce fees    One of the great benefits of traveling around Europe is the ease of use when it comes to currencies. On much of the continent, you don’t need to worry about keeping different bills and coins or making mental-math conversations between one currency to another to […]

How to stay safe while traveling in Europe

No matter what, safety while traveling is most important. Luckily, Europe has a stellar safety record, and more than a dozen of its countries regularly appear at the top end of safest places to live and travel lists. To make your adventure safe and secure, consider these tips and best practices!    Travel insurance   […]

What you need to enter Europe

Visas, documents, and passports   So, you are planning to visit Europe. Great! We will be happy to welcome you and share what makes this continent so unique. Here are answers to the most common questions about preparing for your trip. Addressing them now will make your travels smooth, easy, and convenient! Who needs a […]

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Traveling around europe.

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Tips to communicate in Europe

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Your guide to passenger rights while traveling in Europe

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Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park.

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A slow tourism vibe at your own pace!

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What is Thermal Health Tourism? Thermal Health Tourism in Turkey

In this article, we will tell you about what thermal health tourism is from A to Z, and we will also tell you about the locations of these places in Turkey.

What is Thermal Health Tourism?

In a nutshell, thermal tourism is a form of tourism focused on the positive effects that mineral-rich natural spring waters have on both physical and psychological health. Thermal health tourism, which is based on natural spring waters that emerge from the ground, has revealed a new perspective on hospitality and service in this context.

Thermal tourism, contrary to popular belief, dates back to quite ancient times. People traveled to places where thermal waters were located to find healing in ancient Greece, and it is also claimed that during the Roman and Byzantine periods too.

How Thermal Resources Are Formed

Thermal waters are formed in the earth's mantle layers. The water that seeps down from the earth heats up underground and returns to the earth through tectonic fault zones and volcanic shifts, which are the earth's breaking points. Depending on the region and the rock structure in that region, these waters contain a wide range of minerals.

Why is Thermal Tourism Popular Again?

In the world we live in, a fast-paced work environment, high-stress levels from living in metropolises, and a variety of other stress factors cause various levels of fatigue and harm in our bodies. Pollution, especially in city life, has a negative impact on repairing these damages.

Thermal facilities and hot springs play a critical role in the treatment of these damages. In the past, thermal tourism appealed to people over a certain age, but today the average age has fallen considerably. Nowadays, individuals in their 20's can also include thermal tourism on their agenda.

What are the Types of Thermal Tourism?

Although thermal tourism is shaped around warm groundwater, it also contains many different types. Some of these types are as follows;

Hot Spring Bath: This means that the curing treatment is repeated at regular intervals, and in certain doses. Since bath curing applications are admonitory and compliance treatment; they should be applied under the supervision of a doctor, and within a certain period of time.

There are different types of cures in thermal health applications. One of them is the spa bath. These baths are classified as cold, warm, hot, and extremely hot according to temperature ranges. Spa baths last about 20 minutes on average. Baths are usually applied for 2 to 4 weeks, either every day (one day a week passes without a bath) or every other day. The frequency of bathing and the temperature degree of bathing are determined by specialist doctors for the needs of the patient.

During these treatments, which are performed in private bathrooms with specially prepared waters, the tubs are disinfected after each use.

Peloid Application

Another application of curing is the application of mud, also known as peloid. Peloid applications are used in the form of baths or more often in the form of packages. Package-style application is the most commonly used peloid therapy method. Mineral swamps, marine and delta slime, and medicinal soils mixed with thermo-mineral water are used in mud bath cures. Depending on the needs of the patient, the areas of the body where these packages are applied may vary.

These slurries, which can reach temperatures of 50 degrees, typically take 30 to 40 minutes to apply. This form of care is used to treat; rheumatic, post-traumatic, postoperative, orthopedic lesions, gynecological conditions, and certain digestive system diseases, and with positive outcomes.

Gas Bath: A gas bath is a type of cure that uses carbon dioxide. The temperature of the water in carbon dioxide liquid bath applications, which is a form of bathing with carbon dioxide water, is held between 33 and 35 °C. A treatment takes about 15 minutes on average. arbon dioxide baths are often recommended for two consecutive days of bathing and a third day of resting.

In addition, there is a type of cure that is applied by giving gas alone in a special cabin privately.

Respiratory Cure (Inhalation): Respiratory cures mean that mineral water is divided into particles of the appropriate diameter by special techniques and taken by the respiratory tract. Respiratory cures should be applied at an average temperature of 30 degrees and in a time interval of 5 to 15 minutes.

Which Diseases are Thermal Waters Good For?

Thermal waters are used in the treatment of many diseases, such as; respiratory diseases, skin diseases, muscular and skeletal system diseases, cardiovascular system diseases, gastrointestinal and metabolic diseases, kidney and urinary tract diseases, gynecology and neurological diseases are all a part of the diseases included in the thermal water's healing powers.

Thermal Health Tourism in Turkey

Turkey is a country surrounded by many fault lines because it is located in an area where the Anatolian plate fractures are found. Therefore, the country's lands are very rich in terms of mineral hot spring waters. There are more than 1,300 hot groundwater sources in Turkey, 500 of which are known to be medicinal. Thus, the country is one of the most preferred destinations in the world for thermal tourism purposes.

In the country hosting a total of 190 Hot Springs, thermal tourism bed potential was calculated as 1,365,000. Afyon ranks at the top of this ranking, followed by the provinces of; Aydin, Denizli, Izmir, Kütahya and Sivas.

You can get more detailed information about hotels and services by visiting our article about; " Thermal Hotels Approved by the Ministry of Health in Turkey ". 

Page content is for informational purposes only. The content of this page does not include information on therapeutic health care. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

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Global Wellness Institute

Thermal/mineral springs, thermal/mineral springs.

The Global Wellness Institute has tracked and measured the global thermal/mineral springs industry for more than a decade. In 2013, we estimated that thermal/mineral springs was a $50 billion industry globally. Since that time, the thermal/mineral springs industry has grown rapidly alongside the broader wellness movement. As of 2019, we estimated 34,860 thermal/mineral springs establishments operating worldwide, earning $66 billion in revenues. This represents a 4.6% annual revenue growth rate from 2013-2019. After a 39% decline in 2020, due to the pandemic, the industry has recovered to $46 billion in 2022. GWI projects that the springs industry will fully recover and surpass its pre-pandemic level by 2024. Growth will continue to accelerate in the coming years with rising consumer interest and business investment in the sector all around the world.

The majority of thermal/mineral establishments around the world are rustic and traditional bathing and swimming facilities. They target their local markets and charge relatively low admission fees. About a quarter of the establishments are higher end, targeting tourists and offering value-added spa services. Those that offer spa services account for a much greater share of industry revenues (over two-thirds) and have also experienced higher revenue growth historically.

The thermal/mineral springs industry is heavily concentrated in Asia-Pacific and Europe, reflecting the centuries-old history of water-based healing and relaxation in these two regions. Together, Asia-Pacific and Europe typically account for about 95% of the total global establishments and revenues each year.

Thermal/mineral springs bathing experiences appeal to a growing segment of consumers seeking to connect with nature; experience cultural traditions; and pursue alternative modalities for healing, rehabilitation, and prevention. Responding to these trends, both private investors and governments across many countries are investing in the sector. In countries with long-established thermal bathing traditions, governments are increasingly promoting these as a key wellness tourism offering. They are investing in renovation and reopening of primitive, outdated, and closed-down facilities, as well as upgrading service standards and training to meet the expectations of international tourists. An estimated 266 new thermal/mineral springs projects have opened worldwide in 2018-2022, and over 200 more projects are in the pipeline for future openings/development.

Thermal/Mineral Springs Defined:

GWI defines the thermal/mineral springs industry as encompassing  revenue-earning business establishments associated with the wellness, recreational and therapeutic uses of waters with special properties . GWI’s figures count thermal/mineral springs establishments that operate as a business, and as such, do not include springs that do not have any built facilities and/or do not charge any kind of fee for access. Establishments that use heated water—not naturally sourced thermal/mineral water—are also excluded from this category. There are many categories and types of thermal/mineral springs establishments, as illustrated below:

Our revenue estimates include all revenues earned by the establishments in the above categories (not just revenues from thermal/mineral-water bathing and treatments). Therefore, our estimates include revenues earned from bathing/swimming offerings, spa/wellness services and other treatments, other recreational activities, food and beverage, lodging, and other services offered by the establishment.

For more information :

• GWI’s thermal/mineral springs figures are updated and released every few years in the Global Wellness Economy Monitor . For the most recent data and research, see Wellness Economy Data Series .
• Additional information and resources are available through GWI’s Hot Springs Initiative .

• Medical Tourism
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• History of medical travel

The History of Medical Tourism

Medical tourism history - ancient times.

• The Sumerians (circa 4000 BC) constructed the earliest known health complexes that were built around hot springs. These healthcare facilities included majestic elevated temples with flowing pools.
• During the Bronze Age (circa 2000 BC), hill tribes in what is now known presently as St. Moritz, Switzerland recognized the health benefits in drinking and bathing in iron-rich mineral springs. The same bronze drinking cups that they used were found in thermal springs in France and Germany, which could signify health pilgrimages within these cultures.
• The Ancient Greeks were the first to lay a foundation for a comprehensive medical tourism network. In honor of their god of medicine, Asclepius, the Greeks erected the Asclepia Temples, which became some of the world's first health centers. People from all over, traveled to these temples to seek cures for their ailments.
• By the year 300 BC, other therapeutic temples flourished under the Greek domain. One facility called the Epidaurus was the most famous and included services like a gymnasium, a snake farm, a dream temple, and thermal baths. Other temple spas included the Sanctuary of Zeus in Olympia and the Temple of Delphi.
• In India, the history of medical tourism was also slowly unfolding with the popularity of yoga and Ayurvedic medicine. As early as 5000 years ago, constant streams of medical travelers and spiritual students flocked to India to seek the benefits of these alternative-healing methods.
• When Rome became a global power, several hot-water baths and springs called thermae came into existence and gained popularity among the elite. These baths were not only healthcare facilities, but became commercial and social networking centers for the rich and the elite.

Medical Tourism History - The Middle Ages

• In Medieval Japan, hot mineral springs called onsen became popular throughout the nation due to their healing properties. The warrior clans soon took notice of these springs and began using them to alleviate pain, heal wounds, and recuperate from their battles.
• Many early Islamic cultures established health care systems that also catered for foreigners. In 1248 AD, the Mansuri Hospital was built in Cairo and became the largest and most advanced hospital in the world of that time. With the capacity to accommodate 8,000 people, this hospital became a healthcare destination for foreigners regardless of race or religion.

History of Medical Tourism - The Renaissance Period

• A village known as Ville d'Eaux or Town of Waters, became famous throughout Europe in 1326 when iron-rich hot springs were discovered within the region. Prominent visitors like Peter the Great and Victor Hugo visited these wellness resorts. The word “spa”, derived from the Roman term “salude per aqua” or health through waters, was first used here.
• During the 16 th century, the rich and the elite of Europe rediscovered Roman baths and flocked to tourist towns with spas like St. Mortiz, Ville d'Eaux, Baden Baden, Aachen and Bath in England. Bath or Aquae Sulis enjoyed royal patronage and was famous throughout the known world. It became the center of fashionable wellness and became a playground for the rich and famous.
• The most noteworthy traveler in the history of Medical Tourism was Michel Eyquem de Montaigne. He was the French inventor of the essay, and was believed to be the father of luxury travel. He helped write the earliest documented spa guide in medical tourism history.

History of Medical Tourism - The Post-Renaissance Period

• In the 1720s, Bath became the first city in England to receive a covered sewage system and was ahead of London for several years. The city also received technological, financial, and social benefits. Roads were paved, streets had lights, hotels, and restaurants were beautified – all because of Medical Tourism.
• The discovery of the New World brought new destinations for European medical travelers. During the 1600s, English and Dutch colonists started building log cabins near mineral springs rich with medicinal properties. During this time, it was noted that the Native Americans in the New World were adept in the healing arts. Knowledge in herbal medicine was exceptional and rivalled those in Europe, Asia or Africa.
• During the 18 th and 19 th century, several Europeans and Americans continued to travel to remote areas with spas and health retreats hoping to cure various ailments like tuberculosis.

Medical Tourism History from the 1900s to 1997

• In 1933, the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) was established and became the umbrella organization for the medical specialist boards in the United States. The ABMS established educational and professional policies, which became the blueprint of standards around the world.
• In 1958, the European Union of Medical Specialties (UEMS) was formed. The UEMS is made up of different National Medical Associations from member nations of the European Unions.  
• During the 1960s, India became a destination of choice for pilgrims when the New Age movement began in the USA. The flower child movement, which drew the elite and socialites of America and the UK, eventually developed into a fully-fledged medical tourism industry, with yoga and Ayurvedic medicine rediscovered.
• With the cost of healthcare rising in the 1980s and 1990s, American patients started considering offshore options, like dental services in Central America. Whilst US doctors were appalled at the idea of seeking healthcare in foreign hospitals during these periods, Cuba started programs luring foreigners for eye surgeries, heart and cosmetic procedures.

History of Medical Tourism from 1997 to 2001

Medical tourism from 2001 to 2006, medical tourism in 2007 and beyond, medical tourism information:, browse by specialty.

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• Thermal baths in Italy: the 20 most famous Italian thermal areas
• Best Places to Visit in Italy

Do you wish to give yourself a pleasant stay in an elegant thermal centre? Discover the best thermal baths in Italy .

Do you dream of dedicating time to purifying yourself from the hustle and bustle of contemporary life in the best thermal baths in Italy and do you want to know where the most beautiful resorts are? You will discover that thermal baths in Italy are favorite destinations for those who love to take care of their psychophysical balance, allowing themselves a break from the frenetic pace of modern life. A wide range of solutions is available to satisfy every need. You can relax and pamper yourself in very suggestive thermal springs, set in uncontaminated natural environments, or opt for accommodation facilities equipped with every comfort, where you can enjoy a high level of hospitality, regenerating yourself at the sight of spectacular landscapes.

There are many destinations where you can spend a wonderful holiday exploring thermal baths in Italy . An ever-increasing number of tourists and travelers decide to spend time in exclusive establishments whose waters have highly appreciated healing properties. The steams, pleasant warmth of the springs, mud baths, and scents of mountain herbs will help pamper you and make you feel better, purifying you of toxins and easing muscle tension, enveloping you and allowing you to enjoy a fantastic multi-sensory experience. Thermal baths in Italy are also very popular with those who like to recover a lifestyle more in line with the rhythms of natural systems. In addition, you could combine the thermal cures with exciting trips to discover the beautiful landscapes and artistic and architectural masterpieces in the suggestive villages and neighboring towns.

Thermal baths in Italy: find out the 20 most charming thermal resorts

Invigorating baths at these oases of relaxation are an intrinsic element of our culture. Do you need to regain your energy and restore your state of well-being? What better occasion could you have to dedicate some time to your health than spending a weekend relaxing in the beautiful pools and saunas of thermal baths in Italy ? Treat yourself to wellness and harmony by taking advantage of the powerful curative virtues of the thermal baths in Italy , rich in springs whose waters provide remarkable benefits for alleviating inflammatory, respiratory, or other ailments. As you explore the peninsula, you will realise that there are many establishments where you can benefit from these treatments.

So let us set out towards the thermal baths in Italy loved by wellness enthusiasts. If you continue reading this guide, you will find a detailed overview of the 20 thermal areas that we suggest at Visit Italy as destinations for your next holiday so that you can enjoy marvelous moments of relaxation experiencing the cures that the prestigious centers provide, including mud baths, emotional showers, and chromotherapy. In this way, you will have the opportunity to choose the thermal areas in Italy you prefer and take advantage of the support of in-depth articles on the various regions to decide which perfect thermal resorts are best suited to you based on your needs.

Thermal baths in Northern Italy

Are you dreaming of enjoying relaxation and wellness? Would you like to discover the best thermal areas in Northern Italy to enjoy a marvellous weekend of tranquillity? Follow our alluring itinerary through the most famous and suggestive thermal destinations in the North of Italy. The magnificent thermal areas in Northern Italy are rich in exclusive centres nestled in spectacular natural environments characterized by thriving and luxuriant vegetation. The extraordinary abundance of precious thermal springs with powerful properties of these oases of beauty, care, and harmony are highly appreciated by people who need peculiar treatments and those who wish to enjoy a relaxing stay while taking advantage of the many benefits of the curative paths. The varied offer of resorts in the thermal areas in Northern Italy offers travelers facilities with high-quality standards, equipped with every comfort to satisfy all their needs, allowing them to regenerate while admiring the marvelous views of these areas.

20. Thermal baths in Italy in the region of Mont Blanc

Visualizza questo post su Instagram Un post condiviso da Gloria Negri (@pegasonews)

If you choose to spend a regenerating stay in the Aosta Valley, you can enjoy spectacular thermal baths in Italy a bath in fantastic pools, and admire magnificent mountain views. In the thermal area of Prè Saint Didier in Palleusieux, in the heart of the Valdigne, the most renowned in the region, you can relax by taking advantage of its precious iron-rich waters, excellent for dermatological treatments and for solving problems affecting the circulatory system, the muscular system, and rheumatoid arthritis, benefiting from properties of thermal baths in Italy . 

You will also benefit from several additional services, including biosaunas, sensory and chrome therapy showers, a salt room, and amazing steam baths. Enthusiasts about wellness and thermal baths in Italy will be mesmerised by these oases of pleasure and will indulge in invigorating saunas, Turkish baths, and solariums. Among the most popular spa resorts in Valle d'Aosta are Pila - Gressan, Cervinia, Champoluc, Gressoney-la-Trinité and Cogne.

Among the thermal areas in Valle d'Aosta, we also mention the Saint Vincent spa, which overlooks the spectacular scenery of the majestic Mont Avic. Fons Salutis is very effective in alleviating respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms. In the curative sector, you will be able to enjoy the benefits of humage, micronized showers, aerosol, and crenotherapy. In Champoluc, in the picturesque setting of the enchanting Val d'Ayes, there is another thermal centre suitable for singles and couples with children, where you can indulge in invigorating courses, including biosaunas, Finnish saunas and reaction baths, special massages, and personal trainers who will take care of you.

19. Thermal baths in the most aristocratic region of Italy

 If you wish to spend a pleasant holiday away from the stress of everyday life, dedicating yourself to the care of your psychophysical well-being by attending enchanting thermal baths in Italy , Piedmont is a popular destination for lovers of thermal areas . You will find a wide range of opportunities to fully satisfy your needs and tastes.  One of the most prestigious thermal areas in Piedmont is Acqui Terme, rich in culture, artistic masterpieces, and history and located in the province of Alessandria, on the banks of the Bormida river. The first thermal resorts were designed during the 12th century: in the area surrounding the so-called Bollente spring, tourists were able to attend the first public facility. Three precious springs with multiple curative properties flow in this area, the Fonte Bollente, Lago delle Sorgenti, and Acqua Marcia, two of which are hyperthermal and one hypothermal. This area boasts an ancient tradition regarding the spread of thermal baths in Italy , offering services of a high-quality standard, related to mud-bane therapy, respiratory and motor rehabilitation, and inhalations.

Among the thermal centres in the province of Asti, the springs of Agliano Terme are renowned, whose waters with a salty-magnesium composition are indicated in the treatment of problems related to the liver and digestive system. The thermal area of Lurisia Terme is fed by the Garbarino spring, which can be used under strict medical supervision due to its powerful therapeutic virtues, and by the Santa Barbara spring, which provides depurative and diuretic benefits. Other thermal resorts include Garessio, whose waters have a positive effect on kidney and liver problems. The Valdieri area, very appreciated among thermal baths in Italy , is indicated for its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, analgesic, and respiratory tract benefits. In the Verbano Cusio Ossola area are the famous Bagni d Craveggia baths with free access, perfect for toning treatments and the circulatory system.

The Bognanco thermal centre is a favourite destination for the pharmacological effects of the Ausonio Spring, with its high concentration of carbon dioxide and bicarbonate, useful for overweight patients and dermatological and hypertensive pathologies, while the San Lorenzo Spring works by favouring diuresis, as does the Gaudenziana Spring, which influences the improvement of kidney disorders. We also find the Crodo and Premia thermal areas .

18. The most enchanting thermal baths in Italy in the region of Manzoni

Continuing our tour in search of the most famous thermal areas , we arrive in Lombardy to discover its precious natural springs, which feed the plants of the establishments, located in environments of remarkable landscape and great charm. In the province of Bergamo, we find the San Pellegrino thermal area , whose waters flow from the Vita spring. Even Leonardo da Vinci, the great Renaissance genius, has mentioned them for their extraordinary therapeutic virtues. You can pamper yourself with regenerating steam baths and biosaunas. Nearby you can also appreciate the thermal and mud-therapy treatments of the Trescore Balneario centers and that of the noble residence of Sant'Omobono, famous for the sulfurous characteristics of its springs, among the most fascinating thermal baths in Italy .

Exploring the territory facing the marvelous Lake Garda, you will notice the presence of other areas with a vocation for thermalism: the resort of Sirmione is one of the best-known thermal baths in Italy in Europe, and it offers springs with sulfurous salso-bromo-iodine properties, excellent for undergoing rehabilitation treatments and curing rheumatic and respiratory ailments.

In the Brescia area, we come to the Boario thermal area , which is one of the jewels of the Camonica Valley. Its waters come from the Igea, Boario, Fausta, and Antica Fonte springs, originating from Monte Altissimo. The facility has two thermal pools, whirlpool baths, Mediterranean baths, Finnish saunas, Turkish baths, ice cascades, emotional showers, and salt rooms, and it is possible to perform physiotherapy, balneotherapy, hydroponics, and massotherapy.

Reaching the thermal area of Bormio, a treasure of Valtellina, you can combine spa treatments with outdoor sports. In the Pavia area, we recommend a visit to the thermal territory of Salice, whose springs are appreciated for their curative properties deriving from their salso-bromo-iodine, sulphurous and sulphurous composition, of fundamental importance for mud therapy and aerosol therapy. The Miradolo themal resort is equipped with pools fed by four springs, which have different beneficial virtues. The Rivanazzano thermal area is located in a very picturesque medieval setting. In the Mantua area, there is a famous thermal centre in the lush Mincio Park.

17. The most enchanting thermal baths in Italy in the region of the Riviera of Flowers

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The Ligurian territory, embellished by splendid landscapes inlaid with mountainous reliefs and the shrubs of the Mediterranean scrub, and rich in ancient traditions linked to seafaring activities, is much appreciated by lovers of nature and relaxation. It also holds many surprises for people who want to take care of their psychophysical well-being. You will admire the picturesque scenery dotted with delightful villages in polychrome tones.

In the Voltri area, close to the city of the Lantern, the Acquasanta thermal resort welcomes guests by offering them the curative properties of its waters, which are ideal for curing respiratory and dermatological pathologies since they have a high sulphur content. You can take advantage of the myriad of services, including inhalations, balneotherapy, Turkish baths, nebulisation, and saunas. Its springs have a temperature of around 22°. Some interesting attractions to add to your itinerary are the Paper Museum and the Renaissance Sanctuary.

Another stage of our tour is the thermal area of Pigna, a jewel of the Nervia Valley, whose waters, with a high concentration of chlorine and sulphur, have a temperature of between 28° and 32°. Among the treatments available there are cures for respiratory tract affections and circulatory problems, crenotherapy politzer, aerosol, humage, inhalations, insufflations, mud therapy, and hydro kinesitherapy.

The thermal area of Diano Castello is located in an equidistant position between the magnificent village of Diano Castello and Diano Marina, a gem of medieval architecture. It hosts a famous thermal center, which draws its waters with curative virtues directly from the Battaglino spring. You can enjoy unforgettable moments of wellness thanks to the thermal muds, rich in precious trace elements, hydro massage, hydrotherapy showers, and toning and purifying saunas.

16. Thermal baths in Italy in the region of the Braies lake

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If you want to live extraordinary experiences in a setting of rare charm, you could choose Trentino for a stay in the thermal areas . You will be amazed by the beauty of the natural scenery, the picturesque villages, the food and wine, and the high quality of the thermal baths in Italy . The Merano thermal baths stand out for their avant-garde architecture, made of a metal and glass framework designed by Matteo Thun. You can indulge in moments of relaxation and wellness and take invigorating baths in the numerous pools with sulfurous thermal water. Gems offered by  thermal baths in Italy include the Passerstein steam bath, the snow room, and beauty treatments based on Val Venosta apples.

Moving on to the Val di Fassa, you can enjoy the benefits of the Alloch spring, located near Pozza di Fassa. A sulfur spring springs here, with healing properties for rheumatism and respiratory inflammation. The Pejo thermal complex, located in the Stelvio National Park, takes advantage of the virtues of the Fonte Antica, Alpina, and Nuova springs of a ferruginous type that emerge from the Ortles Cevedale. They also have anti-inflammatory and stimulating virtues for circulation.

The Rabbi thermal area is located in the same district in a valley with idyllic scenery. Its waters have high carbon dioxide and iron content and have anti-cellulite effects. In the thermal area of Levico, one can enjoy the characteristics of two springs, the Acquaforte, and the weak arsenical, sulfurous, and ferruginous water, appreciated in the treatment of dermatological, respiratory, and arthrosic problems. Its manganese, copper, calcium, and magnesium composition greatly enhance its therapeutic virtues, attracting the attention of visitors and wellness enthusiasts since the 19th century.

In the Giudicarie Valleys, the Cormano thermal resort is immersed in a lush park covering more than 14 hectares, surrounded by hills, pine, and fir trees. You can admire landscapes inlaid with lakes and streams flowing into spectacular waterfalls. Its waters reach 27° and are rich in calcium, bicarbonate, and magnesium. Near Monte Bondone, you will find the Garniga thermal area , which specialised in phytobalneotherapy, useful for stimulating well-being and alleviating rheumatism. The relaxing and invigorating effect of the hay bath comes from the mix of herbs with purifying virtues. Immersed in the spectacular landscape of the Brenta Dolomites, in Val Rendena, there is the thermal area of Caderzone Terme, whose ferruginous waters come from the Sant'Antonio spring. Among the numerous centres of thermal baths in Italy , we also find Brennero, Chiusa, Vipiteno, and Bressanone, which are part of the Isarco Valley circuit, and the centers of Gais, in the province of Bolzano.

15. Thermal baths in the most Middle-European region in Italy

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Are you curious about the main thermal springs in Friuli Venezia Giulia? This region, a crossroads of peoples and cultures, in which the Slavic and Central European souls merge, constitutes a world that has not yet been affected by the frenzy of mass tourism. It preserves wonderful cities of art and unspoilt natural habitats. In these bucolic settings are Templars there are thermal baths in Italy which stand out for their excellent standards.

In Arta, in the province of Udine, stands the eponymous complex in an idyllic mountain setting between the Carnic Alps and the But Valley. Its waters flow from the Pudia Spring, with extraordinary properties for the epidermis and digestive system. Inside the Palazzo delle Acque, you can undertake various wellness courses, including Turkish baths, saunas, the Kneipp course, thalassotherapy, and emotional showers. Among the curative paths, mud therapy, physiotherapy, balneotherapy, hydrotherapy treatments, and inhalations are available.

The centre of Grado, not far from the sea, was already appreciated by the society of the Austro-Hungarian Empire for the undisputed properties of the Santa Croce spring, which gushes out at 6.5°, and for the wonderful panorama. Its waters are used in the treatment of respiratory and circulatory problems. Among the main advantages of the facility are thalassotherapy, heliotherapy, and psammotherapy. The complex is also equipped with a whirlpool, a Finnish sauna, a fitness centre, and swimming pools, where you can swim and enjoy a splendid hydro-massage.

The thermal resort of Lignano Sabbiadoro, the flagship of thermal baths in Italy , near the mouth of the Tagliamento River has a large swimming pool, whose waters at 34° C are excellent for alleviating respiratory and circulatory problems concerning the joints. The wide range of services includes heliotherapy, thalassotherapy, crenotherapy politzer and hydrophysiokinesitherapy, regenerating springs, and wonderful whirlpool baths. Another stage in our overview of the best thermal baths in Italy is the thermal area of Monfalcone, fed by a spring that flows near the Timavo River at 38°. Among the services on offer are treatments for rheumatoid arthritis, vascular and dermatological problems, inhalation treatments, hydro massage, and balneotherapy.

14. The most beautiful thermal baths in Italy in the region of the ancient Serenissima

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If you are in the area bounded by the Garda lake basin and the Euganean Hills thermal zone, you will find a lot of alluring destinations for thermal springs lovers. Abano is one of the most popular thermal baths in Italy and in Europe. Their origins date back to the 8th century: they were already renowned at the time of the Paleo-Venetian peoples and during the Roman age. In the 19th century, the thermal area became a popular destination and was appreciated by the European aristocracy. The waters of the complex, which is among the most well-known thermal baths in Italy , are antidotes to dermatological and vascular problems. Montegrotto thermal resort has a thousand-year history, dating back to the Iron Age. The chemical composition of the springs is enriched with precious salts and minerals during the journey from the Lessini Mountains to the Euganean Hills. You can try balneotherapy, mud therapy, thalassotherapy, and hydro kinesitherapy.

Nearby there is the Galzignano thermal area , fed by springs with relaxing virtues, suitable to treat nervous, rheumatic, and skin pathologies. It is equipped with thermal pools and it offers mud treatments. Besides, you can find the thermal area of Battaglia Terme, located in the lush park of Villa Selvatico-Campodilista. A strong point of the spa area is the spectacular setting of the spring from which the thermal lake basins branch off.

The thermal complex of Bibione, not far from Venice, is located in San Michele del Tagliamento, in an advantageous position from where you quickly reach the destinations of the Adriatic Riviera. Its waters register a temperature of 52° and are perfect for alleviating symptoms affecting the respiratory apparatus, the neurological, and the vascular system. You will be enchanted by the thermal park with its panorama dotted with evocative geyser waterfalls. The thermal area of Caldiero is fed by the Masiera spring, whose temperature is about 26° and is characterized by the Brentella thermal pool. Moreover, its waters are useful for balneotherapy, and respiratory and hydroponic treatments.

In the Valpolicella, one of the most famous wine-growing areas of the boot, there is the thermal center of Verona, which impresses with its considerable extension of 5000 square meters. It offers thermal pools and high-level hydrokinesotherapeutic services. It benefits from the waters of the Acquagardens spring, whose temperature is 45°. It has antiseptic properties that alleviate inflammation and stimulate the immune system. It offers many services, including lithotherapy, balneotherapy, invigorating saunas, Kneipp paths, and music therapy. On the shores of Lake Garda, the Villa dei Cedri is home to a thermal complex in Colà di Lazise. They record temperatures of 37° and are suitable for rheumatic, skin, and orthopedic problems. In the scenic Conca di Smeraldo there is the thermal structure of Recoaro, frequented in the 19th century by the likes of Verdi and Queen Margherita of Savoy. 5 springs with remarkable properties flow here, 4 of which (the Lelia, the Nuova, the Amara, and the Lorgna) are used to purify the bile ducts and stimulate the digestive system of these alluring thermal baths in Italy .

13. Thermal baths in Italy in the region of mosaics

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If you are thinking to spend your next holiday in some location that allows you to combine the tasting of local specialities, and trekking in suggestive hilly scenery among splendid villages, castles, and thermal structures equipped with every comfort, Emilia Romagna is a destination you should consider. Are you looking for a restful weekend in a thermal area ? This is the right place. The great abundance of volcanic waters comes from thermal springs of the natural origin of the salso-bromo-iodine and sulphurous type, perfect for various dermatological, digestive, thyroid, and inflammatory treatments.

The thermal resort in Salsomaggiore in the province of Parma, whose waters present a high saline content, is one of the most renowned and is housed in refined structures built according to Art Nouveau style and interiors embellished with Moorish details. Its thermal springs offer hypertonic waters with beneficial features on the metabolism and immune system.

The Cervarezza thermal complex , located in the province of Reggio Emilia, lies within the Tuscan-Emilian Apennine Park and is ideal for inhalation and joint therapies. You will be charmed by the lush vegetation consisting of meadows, beeches, and pine trees. You will experience the virtues of the sulphurous waters, the whirlpools, thermal pools, thermo-therapeutic saunas, hammams, and fantastic mud baths. The thermal resort of Tabiano, built with the contribution of Duchess Maria Luigia of Austria, offers treatments aimed at curing pathologies affecting the respiratory system. If you are near Bologna, you could take the opportunity to reach the Bologna thermal area , which has two sulphur springs indicated for respiratory and arthrosis problems. Treat yourself to days of relaxation by trying the silk protein and thermal beer treatments.

Other thermal areas in Emilia-Romagna include the centres of Monticelli, Sant'Andrea Bagni, Castrocaro, in the province of Forlì, Comacchio in the province of Ferrara, Cervia, Ravenna, Riolo Terme, Porretta, Castel San Pietro, Rimini, Riccione, Bagno di Romagna and Salvarola, an environment of rare beauty, conferred by the water games of the fountains, where you can experience cutting-edge treatments such as cherry massages and wine therapy. The Riccione thermal area contains four springs of sodium chloride-bromine-iodine, sulphur, and magnesium: it offers the opportunity to undertake multi-sensorial paths in addition to the emotional route with chromatic showers.

Thermal baths in Central Italy

The marvelous landscapes of Central Italy , skimmed by the pleasant breezes of the Apennines and lapped by the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian seas, are dotted with numerous thermal destinations   in Central Italy , ideal for wellness enthusiasts. In addition to the triumph of natural beauty and artistic and cultural masterpieces, you will appreciate thermal resorts of high-quality standards, where you can enjoy enveloping wellness paths. A broad proposal of accommodation facilities will greet you: some contribute overwhelmingly to exerting a magnetic appeal on those who wish to look after their health and mental well-being in centers of excellence. Among the best-known resorts dedicated to thermalism and boasting an ancient tradition if Central Italy , we mention the thermal areas of Ischia, a jewel of the Campania archipelago, the sensorial district of Chianciano, one of the many oases of relaxation near the thermal establishments of Acquasanta and Fucoli, San Casciano dei Bagni, Saturnia, Fontecchio, and Montecatini Terme.

12. Thermal baths in Italy in the region of the lovely scenery of the Val d'Orcia

If you are in Tuscany, you can admire the local beauty, the beautiful landscapes dotted with medieval villages, some of the best thermal baths in Italy , and art cities full of history and charm, and carve out some time to relax at the many thermal areas , whose water temperature range from 35° to 54°. In the area of Val d'Orcia and Amiata, there are free spas, such as Bagni San Filippo, located a short distance from San Quirico d'Orcia, whose waters have a high calcium content: their distinctive emblem is a characteristic limestone formation. Another popular area for thermal baths in Italia enthusiasts is Bagno Vignoni, overlooking the town of Castiglione d'Orcia: its central Fountain Square has been chosen as the location for films by the well-known directors Carlo Verdone, Sergio Rubini, Francesca Neri, Rocco Papaleo, and Christian De Sica. The Chianciano thermal resort is also very important. They offer a wide range of wellness treatments also indicated for the treatment of liver and gastrointestinal disorders. 

The Montepulciano thermal centre uses waters with a high concentration of bromine and sulphur, excellent for those with rheumatic, dermatological, and respiratory problems. It offers preventive treatments to detoxify from daily stress. The other thermal areas with a vocation for thermalism in the province of Siena are Monticiano, where the marvelous thermal resorts of Petriolo rise, Rapolano Terme, renowned for its hyperthermal waters, and San Casciano dei Bagni, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, with its high concentration of thermal springs .

In the province of Florence is the thermal area of Gambassi Terme, with its remarkable curative capacity, fed by the Acqua di Pillo spring. This thermal resort was much attended by famous sportsmen, including Gino Bartali. In the province of Massa Carrara, in the area of Cinquale, is the famous thermal area of Versilia and the Terme di Equi, whose fame has been known since prehistoric times.

In Casciana Terme and San Giuliano Terme, in the province of Pisa, there are numerous thermal resorts , set in an idyllic agricultural landscape. In the province of Pistoia, we find the resorts of Montecatini, in the splendid Valdinievole, frequented in the past also by members of the European aristocracy and excellent for hydroponic therapies, and Monsummano Terme. The thermal area of Sassetta offers guests a widespread wellness route based on a holistic approach. The Venturina Terme thermal area uses the waters of the Cratere spring, already famous in Etruscan and Roman times. The most important thermal baths in Italy , located in the province of Grosseto, are the spectacular thermal baths of Saturnia, consisting of stupendous limestone pools. Also in the so-called Tufo area is the Sorano thermal resort .

11. The most beguiling thermal baths in Italy in the region of Alban Hills

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If you are planning a weekend or a longer stay in one of the thermal areas of Central Italy, you can choose from excellent thermal establishments that have been carefully designed to offer you high-quality standards. Lazio is a destination with a lot of attractions, including treasures of exceptional artistic, historical, and cultural value, villages, unspoilt habitats, and thermal resorts whose ancient tradition, dating back to ancient Rome, has been consolidated over millennia of history. Firstly, we would like to point out that there are public and open-access thermal areas . For instance, there is the Bullicame thermal centre, located near Viterbo, consisting of two natural pools. It is located on the route of the Via Francigena. Other free areas where we can thermal baths in Italy include the Masse di Sisto thermal area, and the Ficoncella complex near Civitavecchia. Lovers of relaxation and thermal baths in Italy could find spas in Tuscia. In the heart of a lush garden is the Bagnaccio thermal area , consisting of 6 thermal pools. This area in the Etruscan-Roman times was known by the name of Acquae Passerise and is characterised by bicarbonate, sulphate, alkaline-earthy, hyperthermal and sulphurous waters that reach 63°. The natural thermal area consists of 12 natural pools.

The thermal area of the Popes is characterised by an imposing pool with a capacity of more than 2000 square metres, fed by both the Bullicame spring and other springs with a smaller capacity. In the suggestive grotto, you can enjoy a Turkish bath of natural origin, the temperature of which is close to 58°. Close to the area bordering the Tuscan-Lazio Maremma is the Vulci thermal spa, which includes two thermal baths with ferruginous waters, suitable for the treatment of arthro-rheumatic, vessel diseases, and dermatological pathologies. In the metropolitan area of Rome, bordered by Tivoli and Civitavecchia, we find several thermal centres. The thermal complex of Stigliano m inspired by the thermal concept in use at the time of the ancient Romans, you can embark on a path divided into a tepidarium, calidarium, and Finnish sauna.

The Tivoli thermal complex is a temple of wellness, which benefits from the springs of Lake Regina and the lake basin known as Colonnelle, whose waters are sulphurous. It is equipped with 5 pools reaching 23° and is ideal for balneotherapy, mud therapy, irrigations, inhalations, hydroponic therapies, and insufflations, in addition to saunas, aromatic showers, Turkish baths, and vascular treatments. In the Palombara Sabina area, you will have the opportunity to enjoy wellness. This facility offers 3 thermal baths, suitable for multiple treatments.

The Ficoncella thermal area , near Civitavecchia, consists of 5 pools with very high temperatures and a high mineral salt content. The springs bring carbonate, which generates new geological layers of travertine and chalk. Visiting Ciociaria, the thermal area of Fiuggi is a glade of relaxation, using the medicinal effects of the Anticolana and Bonifacio VIII Springs. The spa of Ferentino, now known as the Pompeo thermal area, is located in a picturesque village that rises above Tolero hill. It is located in the Sacco Valley and is characterised by hypothermal waters. The Kneipp path is recommended. carrying on our itinerary at the discovery of thermal baths in Italy , we find the thermal area of Cotilla, between Cittaducale and Castel Sant'Angelo, is set in a naturalistic scenario dominated by gorges, lakes of volcanic origin, and very suggestive springs with a high concentration of sulphur. Among the many services, you can take advantage of, there are insufflations, inhalations, irrigations, hydroponic cures, and physiotherapy courses.

10. Thermal baths in Italy in the region of the dukedom of Federico da Montefeltro

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With its splendid cities of art, architectural masterpieces, charming villages, enchanting natural scenery, and polychrome landscapes, Le Marche captivates travellers eager to discover an area rich in wonder and excellence. If you decide to plan a holiday, learn more about the thermal areas of this region with its multiple identities. Firstly, you can choose between a stay at a facility equipped to enjoy invigorating Turkish baths, saunas, or wellness moments in the large thermal baths, or you can opt for the stages of the natural thermal areas . The properties of thermal springs are many and can benefit those with dermatological problems, those who need to strengthen their immune system, or those suffering from joint or respiratory ailments.

The thermal area of Frasassi, which extends into the Genga area, benefits from the sulphurous waters coming from the area of the famous caves, and one of its flagships is represented by the mud baths with anti-inflammatory properties, ideal in the treatment of rheumatic and articular symptoms. Heading towards Macerata, the thermal complex of Tolentino is located on a hill immersed in a lush green forest. Here you can experience the benefits of the sulphurous and salso-bromo-iodine waters of thermal baths in Italy . Near Ascoli Piceno, you can take the opportunity to take a bath in the waters of the free thermal areas near the sources of the Tronto river. If you choose to stay in Camerano, you can appreciate the Aspio thermal facility, whose waters have a salsobromoiodic composition.

Surrounded by the stupendous panorama of the Sibillini Mountains, the ancient village of Sarnano is embellished by the San Giacomo thermal area with its bicarbonate-calcic qualities: the district also offers Turkish baths, Finnish saunas, and thermal pools with therapeutic virtues. The verdant natural scenery of the Petriano valley, one of the scenic jewels of the Montefeltro region, draws water from the La Valle spring. Another well-known thermal resort is in Montegrimano, in the Conca valley. There are also delightful pools for a day of wellness at thermal baths in Italy .

9. Thermal baths in the most lush region in Italy

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The landscapes of Umbria, modelled by the Apennine ridges, are dotted with villages with an ancient flavour, which preserve historical buildings and works of great value, and have a remarkable abundance of springs. Close to Città di Castello there is the prestigious thermal resort of Fontecchio, which uses the waters of two springs, useful for various therapeutic interventions. You can also enjoy mud-therapy treatments, balneotherapy, massage therapy, hydrotherapy, emotional showers, saunas, vascular paths, and Turkish baths.

The Francescana thermal area in Spello is located in San Felice Terme and derives from the extension of structures dating back to Roman times. Its sulphurous waters flow from the spring of the same name and they are suitable to treat respiratory, muscular, and cardiovascular pathologies, facilitate digestion, and purify the hepatic system. We also suggest you try the sauna and the Kneipp and sensorial paths.

In the Massa Martana area, awarded the prestigious title of one of Italy's Most Beautiful Villages for its medieval and Roman architecture, emerge the San Faustino thermal springs , famous for the medicinal virtues of their waters since the 19th century. This centre stands out for its high concentration of manganese, carbon dioxide, and lithium salts, which give them both digestive properties and the treatment of symptoms from kidney problems.

Not far away, there is the Amerino thermal area near Acquasparta. According to legend, St Francis of Assisi also visited the spring. The waters of this thermal centre are suitable for the treatment of gastroenteritis and stone disorders. Along the Via Flaminia, we find an extensive thermal park surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation, which benefits from the virtues of the Fabia and Sangemini springs. Its waters are rich in calcium, which gives them the ability to cure disorders related to allergies, menopause, and osteoporosis.

8. Thermal baths in Italy in the region of national parks

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If you are thinking of spending a pleasant stay in the region of parks, protected reserves, and picturesque villages, you will be enchanted by the kaleidoscope of landscapes with intense colours. The variety of proposals makes it an excellent destination at any time of year. There are five destinations where you can find thermal areas : Caramanico,Canistro, Raiano, Rivisindoli, and Popoli. The Caramanico thermal resort , located in the beautiful scenery of the Orfento Valley, is a place that has many attractions to offer mountain enthusiasts. You will be fascinated by the extraordinary floral and faunal biodiversity of the natural environment.

The thermal area of Caramanico is distinguished by its sulphur and oligomineral springs. Here you can rediscover your well-being by indulging in mud baths, fitness, and rehabilitation treatments. The thermal complex of Raiano, not far from Sulmona, has its roots in the history of ancient Rome and is fed by the spring known as La Solfa. It is a very picturesque area, from which you can organise trekking routes within the natural parks. You will have a wide range of services at your disposal, such as massage sessions, treatments in the thermal baths with waters whose temperature reaches 30°, inhalations, massage therapy, and mud balneotherapy.

In Canistro, in the delightful Val Rovereto, there is a famous thermal centre , easily accessible from Avezzano, Civitella Roveto and the Zompo Lo Schiocco Nature Reserve, and Camporotondo, specialising in hydroponic treatments to preserve the health and good functioning of the kidneys, stomach, liver, and intestines. This area is also appreciated for the Sponga and Santa Croce springs and for its unspoilt natural environments. Its hypothermal waters surface at 9.5° and have a high concentration of chlorine, calcium, and magnesium.

Nearby, you can also discover the thermal area of Popoli, located in the province of Pescara, overlooking the Sirente Velino nature reserve. There are many sulphur springs in this area, graced by the view of gentle hillsides. We also suggest you explore the Navelli plateau, where the prized saffron is cultivated. Moving between Marche and Abruzzo, you will arrive at the Rivisondoli thermal area , near Roccaraso. Its sulphur-rich springs and thermal muds are also popular from a cosmetic point of view: at the centre you can also enjoy emotional showers, Turkish baths, and saunas. They are fed by the Strapuzio spring, which gives them moisturising and soothing virtues.

Thermal baths in Southern Italy

If you love experiencing innovative and beguiling thermal routes and you need some original ideas on possible charming destinations for a purifying and toning holiday, visit the magnificent thermal areas in Southern Italy to find the best thermal center for your needs. Southern Italy presents a range of tempting proposals to combine wellness and relaxing treatments with excursions and trips dedicated to natural wonders and historical, artistic, and cultural treasures. Many areas have been appreciated and frequented since ancient times for the prodigious features of their waters, which emerge from springs in fascinating settings. Thermal baths in Southern Italy rise in very picturesque locations, allowing you to learn more about the local culture, traditions, history, and archaeology. Among the most famous thermal resorts of Southern Italy , we find Santa Cesarea Terme, Ischia, the Cave of Nymphs, Vulcano, Galatro, the Terme Luigiane, Spezzano, Torre Canne, and Sciacca.

7. Thermal baths in Italy in the region of Campi Flegrei

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If you are in Campania and dream of spending a relaxing weekend in one of the region's thermal areas , you can choose the structure that best suits your needs. The Campania region is subject to the intense activity of volcanic complexes, which have shaped its morphology and contributed to the origin of numerous springs, thus making the area ideal for people who love to attend thermal baths . In this enchanting region, the thermal tradition  is well established and offers the visitor a multifaceted range of facilities. You could start your tour of Campania's thermal areas from the island of Ischia, the largest in the fascinating Bay of Naples, dotted with thermal resorts boasting an ancient history. The volcanic nature of the place has favoured the proliferation of springs. Arriving on dry land, you will have the impression of being in an authentic Eden, where the pools of the thermal complexes are set like precious gems within the lush vegetation and magnificent gardens adorned with colourful exotic flora.

Continuing our overview, one of Campania's most emblazoned thermal spa areas is Telese, whose springs spring from a natural park on the slopes of Mount Pugliano. What makes them special is the concentration of sulphur and carbon dioxide, which makes them perfect for circulation problems. In the area it is possible to treat oneself to invigorating saunas and wonderful whirlpool baths.

The Pozzuoli thermal area , which in ancient times was known as the Baia thermal baths, is located in a natural and historical context of great value. The anti-inflammatory and invigorating properties of the salso-bromo-iodine springs make them very suitable for wellness lovers and in the case of dermatological, arthrotic, respiratory and rheumatic problems. You can take advantage of two high-temperature pools, mud cures, wonderful saunas in natural caves, and try balneotherapy. Also renowned are Bacoli and the Contursi area in the Sele Valley in the province of Salerno, whose waters are fed by 15 springs. Their high carbon dioxide content makes them excellent for those suffering from cardiovascular disorders.

The Agnano thermal area is located at the foot of Monte Spina and offers waters rich in calcium, bromine, and iodine, which strengthen the immune system and treat inflammation: inside you will find the famous Stufe di San Germano, saunas of natural origin, which give off a heat suitable for the treatment of rheumatism and arthritis. The San Teodoro thermal resort i s a jewel of Irpinia, in Villamaina, set in the heart of the green Irpinia region: its bicarbonate-calcic, alkaline-earthy and sulphate thermal springs have an abundant carbon dioxide content, useful in the treatment of dermatological, respiratory and gastro-intestinal tract problems. the Castellammare di Stabia thermal complex, also referred to by Pliny the Elder, characterised by sulphurous, medium-mineral and bicarbonate-calcic springs.

6. Thermal baths in Italy in the region of ancient Samnites

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Molise, a land with an ancient history dating back to the distant past, is a treasure chest of treasures, set in stupendous landscapes and cultural settings. Its picturesque villages, lush vegetation and delightful beaches will captivate you. In addition to its historical, cultural and natural beauties, it guards precious thermal springs , offering travellers the opportunity to combine knowledge of its traditions and typical food and wine with wellness itineraries.

Our itinerary could start from Campobasso, which offers the renowned Sepino thermal resort , in the setting of the Matese Mountains. The virtues of its oligomineral, magnesic and bicarbonate-calcic waters, which flow from the Tre Fontane, were already appreciated in Samnite times. Take the opportunity to enjoy wonderful saunas, Turkish baths and invigorating whirlpools. The offer also includes massotherapy treatments, inhalations and cures focused on muscle tone and the resolution of gastrointestinal disorders. The area is also dotted with archaeological sites, where the historical events of the ancient peoples who inhabited these places can be explored.

The thermal area of Castelpetroso, in the province of Isernia, is equipped with thermarium, magnificent pools, and purifying saunas. Also very famous are the thermal springs of Bagnoli del Trigno with their haloterapy, phytothermotherapy, infrathermotherapy, hydrozonotherapy and emotional showers with their chromo-therapeutic effects. Other major thermal areas include Busso, Campochiaro, Bonefro and, in the province of Isernia, Agnone, Acquaviva d'Isernia, Belmonte nel Sannio. If you decide to extend your holiday, we also recommend a visit to Capracotta, Castel San Vincenzo, Frosolone and the Morge area.

5. Thermal baths in Italy in the region of the marvelous Lucanian landscapes

Our journey on trails of marvelous t hermal baths in Italy leads us to Basilicata, set like a gem between two seas, the Ionian and the Tyrrhenian, is a marvellous region characterized by rich biodiversity and a bursting variety of landscapes and historical-artistic treasures. Here, nature, history, culture, and millennial traditions create a unicum of beauty and wonder. Among the many attractions, the thermal springs , which are distinguished by the purity of their waters, stand out. The element that denotes Lucanian thermal resorts is the holistic conception of the wellness path, enhanced by the beneficial effects of a slower lifestyle. The main thermal areas in Basilicata are Latronico and Rapolla, enchanting locations we recommend in the province of Potenza. Along the way between the two thermal resorts, you can admire the ancient splendour of the colonial settlements of the flourishing Magna Grecia.

In Latronico, in the province of Potenza, you will find an exclusive thermal establishment, set in the Pollino Park, that is a real gem already known in prehistoric times. Its waters, which have undisputed thermal virtues, emerge at a temperature of 22° and flow from three springs: the Piccola of sulphurous type, the Media, and the Grande, whose waters are bicarbonate-calcic. Thermal baths in Italy are particularly suitable for alleviating hearing, respiratory, dermatological, and rheumatic pathologies. The wide range of services includes mud therapy, bath therapy, fantastic massages, inhalations, and magnetotherapy. Lake Sinise, Mount Sirino, and the Maratea coastline are all within easy reach of this area.

The thermal area of Rapolla rises in a splendid village of medieval origin in the province of Potenza. Its saline-sulfate-bicarbonate-alkaline waters emerge from two springs and are used to take care of rheumatism, respiratory or metabolic dysfunctions, and articular, dermatological, or nervous disorders. Among the services offered by thermal baths in Italy , it is possible to practise pressotherapy, mesotherapy, balneotherapy, inalotherapy, and shiatsu.

4. The most fascinating thermal baths in Italy in the region of trulli

Apulia, a region characterized by a territory mainly made up of plains, is a land of marvelous landscapes and ancient cultural and folkloristic heritage, whose millenary traditions are deeply rooted in the identity and the soul of its people. The thermal resort of Santa Margherita di Savoia, located in the province of Foggia, is situated near the salt pans, which give the waters of its springs extraordinary therapeutic properties due to their high bromine and iodine content. Among the treatments offered, we suggest mud therapy, balneotherapy, hypertonic bathing, hydrotherapy, and inhalations.

The thermal area of Fasano, in the province of Brindisi, is renowned for the Torre Canne thermal complex, which benefits from eleven springs springing from the subsoil. The Torricella and Antesana springs are used therapeutically because of their mineral-chloride-sulfate-iodine and brominated waters, with eutrophic, decongestant, keratoplastic, immune system, and metabolism-stimulating properties.

The thermal resort of Santa Cesarea is in a position overlooking the coast, in the province of Lecce, and it draws its waters, which belong to the salty-bromine-iodine-sulfurous-fluorotic type and emerge at 30°, from the thermal springs of Solfatara, Gattulla, Sulphurous, and Fetida. These sources are a panacea for relieving stress, fatigue, and respiratory ailments. Here you can benefit from copious treatments, including massage therapy, mud therapy, balneotherapy, inhalations, and Ayurveda. The thermal area of Castelnuovo della Daunia, fed by the spring, is another popular destination for the curative properties of its springs and mud-therapy treatments.

3. Thermal baths in Italy in the region of Sila and Arbëreshë community

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If you choose Calabria as your holiday destination, you will be won over by the hospitality of a generous people who are proud of their identity, influenced by the cultural stratifications that have followed one another throughout history, and of their traditions. In addition to artistic and cultural masterpieces and gastronomic specialities, its tourist offer includes numerous thermal areas . The Caronte spa in Lamezia Terme is located at the foot of Monte Reventino. It boasts a long tradition dating back to the 2nd century A.D. and is considered one of the most renowned spas.

Its waters with a sulphurous composition, which come from the crystalline spring known as Caronte, flow at 39° and are ideal for the treatment of various rheumatic, respiratory, gynaecological and dermatological pathologies. Its location is one of its strengths, as it is immersed in a wooded area bordering the Tyrrhenian coastline. Adjacent to the centre is a public thermal pool, rich in clay compounds and emanating vapours with proven curative properties.

The Luigiano establishment, located near Cosenza, between the towns of Guardia Piemontese and Acquappesa, has sulphurous-salty-bromine-iodine waters, originating from other sources. The Antonimina thermal area , near Locri, is perfect for alternating wellness moments with stays in intriguing seaside resorts. Its chlorinated-sulphur-alkaline springs were known even in the ancient world and reach a temperature of 36° and are indicated for aerosol, balneotherapy and nebulisation, circulatory, respiratory and dermatological disorders.

Other Calabrian spas include Cassano allo Ionio, the Galatro thermal resort, Spezzano Albanese, the Sybarite spa and the natural thermal area of Cerchiara, near the Pollino Park, fed by a sulphurous spring from which Caldanello originates.

2. Thermal baths in Italy: the most renowned thermal areas of the region where Etna stands out

Our overview regarding thermal baths in Italy starts with the thermal baths you can find in Sicily. In the province of Trapani the thermal centre of the famous Acque Segestane, also known as the Cremiso springs, is located. Its waters flow near Castellammare del Golfo from the three springs of Bagno delle Femmine, Nuova Sorgente, and Grotta Regina. Access to this thermal resort is free of charge and the temperature of these marvellous sulphurous alkaline thermal springs , also excellent for mud treatments, reaches 46°. Thermal baths in Italy are ideal for alleviating respiratory problems and rheumatic disorders and exceptional healing baths. You can try out the sweating stoves, whirlpools, and aerosols and take a dip in the panoramic pools.

The thermal areas of Sciacca belong to the salty-bromine-iodine type and their high temperatures are ideal for finding relief from osteoarticular problems. In the suggestive sudorific caves, you can experience natural steam emissions from magmatic movements. The waters flow from the springs of Molinelli, Acqua Santa, and Acqua sulfurea and are perfect for mud therapy treatments and exudation cures. The active thermal areas are the Acqua Salmastra, the Acqua Calda, and the Carabollace water. From the point of view of typological classification, these are sulphurous, salty-bromine-iodine, and hyperthermal waters that exceed 50°.

The Montevago thermal area , characterised by sulphurous waters reaching 40°, has magnificent pools, a renowned wellness centre, a children's play area, and an area where caravans and campers can be parked. Facilities of thermal baths in Italy include a Turkish bath, humage, sauna, whirlpools, inhalations, and reflexology treatments. The other three important locations where thermal tourism is widespread in Sicily are Termini Imerese, Alì Terme, and the island of Vulcano. The thermal complex of Termini Imerese, overlooking the beautiful Gulf of Palermo, is a popular destination for lovers of thermal baths in Italy , relaxation, and people who need inhalation, hydrotherapy, cardiovascular and massotherapy treatments and offers the opportunity to enjoy a curative bath in the hyperthermal and salso-bromo-iodine waters at 43°.

The thermal establishment of Ali Terme, the pearl of the Ionian Riviera, located in the province of Messina, has been a popular destination among thermal baths in Italy since antiquity. It has two hyperthermal springs, the Granata Cassibile spring, whose waters, rich in iodine, sulphur, and bromine, gush out at 46.5° and the Marino spring at 39.5° and also offers mud and balneotherapy treatments. Offering concerning thermal baths in Italy is very varied: you can choose between free areas for a unique experience in contact with nature or staying in an exclusive resort to try wonderful treatments of thermal baths in Italy .

1. The most magnificent thermal baths in Italy in the region of The Nuragic civilization

Visualizza questo post su Instagram Un post condiviso da Daniela. (@instan.dan)

If you find yourself in Sardinia and wish to explore its wonders, you could treat yourself to some time of relaxation and tranquillity by exploring its thermal areas to achieve a state of well-being. When someone thinks of these territories, dreamy beaches, and the crystal-clear sea immediately come to mind: it is worth considering that the hinterland is also very appealing and evocative. So you can get to know areas off the traditional tourist routes. Some Sardinian thermal resorts are thousands of years old and visiting them out of season will allow you to get even more in touch with the authenticity of the places.

In the Medio Campidano area, near Cagliari, there is the thermal centre of Santa Maria Acquas, which boasts meteoric waters with a temperature ranging between 45° and 60°. Its bicarbonate-alkaline-sodic, hyperthermal waters produce beneficial effects on the microcirculation and the epidermis. The thermal area of Sardara includes two centres, located in a lush park, one of which was built in 1898. You can choose between numerous services and treatments, such as relaxing massages, mud baths, shiatsu, ayurveda, lymphatic drainage, and fantastic baths in the thermal pools. The thermal centre of Benetutti, located in the province of Sassari, is one of the oldest in Sardinia: it is characterised by its sulphurous, salty-bromine-iodine, and salty-iodine waters. Among the therapies that can be carried out are aerosols, inhalations, insufflations, anti-inflammatory treatments, and underwater hydro massage.

This area of Sardinia, known as Goceano, is famous for the presence of nuraghi and several archaeological sites. The thermal structure of Casteldoria, in Santa Maria Coghinas, is immersed in an evocative bucolic landscape. Its waters, which come to the surface at 76°, with their hyperthermal and salsobormoiodic composition, have remarkable therapeutic properties of a decongestant and antiseptic type. They also act positively on the immune defences. There are numerous services you can choose from, such as inhalations and mud-bath therapy, Turkish baths, Finnish sauna, and hydromassage.

In the province of Oristano is the thermal centre of Fordogianus, built on the banks of the Tirso river. Its springs reach a temperature of 54°, are of the salty-bicarbonate-fluorinated type, and are used for mud therapy, inhalations, and hydroponic treatments. They are suitable for both couples and families with children. At the archaeological site of the ancient Roman thermal springs , you can visit the Aragonese house and the temple of San Lussorio. You can also enjoy thalassotherapy treatments, which include nebulisation, sandblasting, and seaweed-based treatments.

Thermal baths in Italy: find out the most coveted thermal areas

• Thermal baths in Italy : the most prestigious destinations of the region where Etna stands out

• Thermal baths in Italy  in the most elegant region of Italy

• The most beautiful thermal baths in Italy in the region where Manzoni lived

• Thermal baths in Italy in the magnificent view of Val d'Orcia

• The most beautiful thermal baths in Italy in the region of the ancient Republic of Venice

• Thermal baths in Italy in the region where Braies lake is nestled

• The most beautiful thermal baths in Italy in the landscape of Alban Hills

• Thermal baths in Italy in the region where Monte Bianco rises

• Thermal baths in Italy in the region at the frontiers of Central Europe

• Thermal baths in Italy in the region where Federico da Montefeltro ruled

• Thermal baths in Italy in the region of marvelous castles

• Thermal baths in Italy in the region where lush nature triumphs

• Thermal baths in Italy in the region of the Nuragic civilization

• Thermal baths in Italy where enchanting trulli are located

• Thermal baths in Italy in the region of the spectacular lava flows of Flegrei Fields

• Thermal baths in Italy in the region of Arbëreshë culture

• Thermal baths in Italy  of the wonderful West Coast

• Thermal baths in Italy in the region of the ancient Sannites civilization

• Thermal baths in Italy in the region rich in national parks and protected areas

• Thermal baths in Italy in the region cradle of mosaic art

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Healthy Water-Based Tourism Experiences: Their Contribution to Quality of Life, Satisfaction and Loyalty

Ana maría campón-cerro.

1 Department of Business Management and Sociology, School of Business Studies and Tourism, University of Extremadura, Avda. de la Universidad s/n, 10071 Cáceres, Spain; se.xenu@zedrehmj

Elide Di-Clemente

2 Department of Business Management and Sociology, Research Institutes, LAB 0L3, University of Extremadura, Avda. de las Ciencias s/n, 10004 Cáceres, Spain; se.xenu@etnemelcide

José Manuel Hernández-Mogollón

José antonio folgado-fernández.

3 Department of Financial Economics and Accounting, School of Business Studies and Tourism, University of Extremadura Avda. de la Universidad s/n, 10071 Cáceres, Spain; se.xenu@odaglofaj

The scientific literature on tourism identifies two driving trends: the quest for experientiality and the growing connection between holidays and quality of life. The present research focuses on water-based activities practiced with a healthy purpose, capable of driving positive economic, social and environmental effects on the territory where this type of tourism is developed. Considering the growing demand of experiential tourism, it is important to assess the experiential value of these practices and their impact on the quality of life, satisfaction and loyalty. A sample of 184 customers of thermal spas and similar establishments was used to test the structural model proposed, employing the partial least squares technique. The results show the experiential value of healthy water-based activities and confirm their positive impact on the individuals’ quality of life, satisfaction and loyalty towards both the experience and the destination.

1. Introduction

The tourism industry is undergoing a substantial change. The advance in new technologies and a skilled and demanding consumer target means that the organisations and destinations need new marketing and management tools to meet the modern tourists’ expectations and the industry’s requirements for innovation [ 1 ].

The scientific literature on tourism issues identifies two driving trends: the quest for experientiality and the growing connection existing between holidaymaking and perceived improvements in individuals’ quality of life. The former is forcing the tourism sector to face a new competitive scenario. Increasing importance is being given to the emotional value of the tourism experiences offered, leaving in the background their functional properties [ 2 ]. The latter is a facet of the tourism phenomenon which is gaining momentum in recent times. Tourism literature has shown a growing consensus about the benefits that individuals can get from tourism experiences and meaningful travel [ 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 ].

In this new experiential stream, tourism businesses face the challenge of changing their business and commercial strategies and improving the affective components of their products, that is, being able to deliver pleasant sensations and memories to the consumer, as well as ensuring the practical functionality of the goods/services offered [ 7 ]. The functional qualities of a tourism proposal are no longer considered differentiators and are not enough to capture the attention and the preferences of consumers.

Considering the preceding, the tourism industry is in need of drawing innovative tourism proposals in line with the recent requirements of modern tourists who see in holidaymaking a possible avenue to pursue happiness [ 8 ]. However, still very little is known about how tourism contributes to quality of life and whether some specific practices are more suitable than others to turn holidays into significant enhancers of personal happiness [ 9 ].

According to Nawijn [ 10 ], ‘in the light of the experience economy’ (p. 560), the tourism industry could improve its performance and foster the effect that holidays have on happiness, giving more attention to the experiential content of the tourism offered, and thus, understanding what causes happiness. The author realises that certain types of holidays are worth further examination to this extent, as they show the potential to positively impact tourists’ happiness. The ones he suggests are wellness tourism, promulgating physical and psychological recovery, or slow tourism, suggesting people should travel with slower means of transport in order to enjoy the trip and experience relaxed rhythms. Based on this consideration, the present research focuses on water-related activities practiced with a healthy purpose, that besides their experiential potential due to the sensorial properties of water (unique touch, sounds, flavours, colours, cold or hot feelings, etc.), accomplish the objective of preserving water resources and ecosystems from contamination, which is often the case of the touristic use of water [ 11 , 12 ]. In fact, natural water resources, such as rivers, lakes, streams, wetlands, aquifers and estuaries, are often jeopardised by people’s use, forcing a change in water policies and management [ 13 ].

Water is for sure a resource with an inestimable environmental value, which unfortunately is not sufficient to preserve it from misuses. Draper [ 14 ] points out that a wise management of water resources needs a commitment with a dynamic economy, social equity and healthy environment. Even if tourism is traditionally considered a water-consuming industry whose impact on its conservation is usually assessed to be more negative than positive, it is possible to encourage a proper and sustainable tourism use of water resources.

Tourism can contribute to this objective by means of giving to intangible water heritages a tangible value, that is, an economic (besides environmental) value in order to save it and its connected water-based ecosystems and biodiversity from destruction. Water-based experiences are potential solutions to preserve both the environmental and the economic value of water, and its tangible and intangible heritage [ 15 ]. However, Essex et al. [ 16 ] claim that ‘there is little research on the significance of water in tourism development’ (p. 6). In the same line, Jennings [ 17 ] maintains that the theme of water-based experiences in tourism has been little explored. Therefore, this work turns the spotlight onto tourism experiences based on water natural resources and settings with the aim of exploring their touristic value within the new experiential context.

Luo et al. [ 18 ] assert that experience economy research has not focused on the customer experience in wellness tourism, and also claim that it is relevant to understand how visitors achieve a bettering of their quality of life through this type of tourism.

The most renowned water-based activities related to health are the visits to thermal spas and similar establishments (spas, Arab baths, etc.) [ 17 ]. However, there are other activities that involve water as a key element, and these are the enjoyment of landscapes and soundscapes related to water, visiting fluvial beaches, trekking through routes with water resources, enjoying river boat trips and watching aquatic birds. Moreover, drinking mineral and medicinal waters provides significant benefits for human health. Restaurants have begun offering a water menu along with the wine menu. The recent concern about health and wellbeing that characterises modern society involves water as a functional element, where a conscious consumption can enhance personal wellness. This trend contributes to generating a new ‘water culture’ [ 19 ] that can lead to the development of innovative initiatives in the tourism sector, addressed to those consumers who will benefit from water properties in places where this element is a central attraction. The rise of a new ‘water culture’ can have beneficial effects on both individuals’ health and on tourism destinations’ economies.

Therefore, it is important to assess the potential of these tourism experiences linked to water and health and their impact on outcome variables such as the tourists’ satisfaction, loyalty and quality of life. Water-based experiences can generate long-term revenue, driving positive behavioural intentions. The main objective of this research is to analyse water-based tourism experiences as a strategy capable of fostering the tourists’ satisfaction, quality of life, and positive future behaviours. As a consequence, water-based experiences could be assumed as capable of enhancing the economic, social and environmental sustainability of a destination where singular hydrographical resources are placed. This work tries to assess tourism activities based on binomial water-health through the experience model proposed by Pine and Gilmore [ 20 ]. This is an original contribution to tourism research as it is the first attempt: (1) to obtain an integrative perspective about the phenomenon of tourism experiences based on water and health; (2) to offer new ideas for tourism products development using water in a non-consumptive way, in line with the modern tourists’ demand of experientiality and wellbeing; (3) to test whether water-based activities accomplish the objective of enhancing individuals’ quality of life which, in turn, can contribute to driving tourists’ loyal behaviours.

The results achieved offer insightful ideas for the elaboration of new experiential proposals and show marketers and practitioners the most suitable actions to undertake in order to satisfy current tourism demand, expecting travel to be a changing and once-in-a-lifetime experience, using water as a tourism attraction from an environmentally respectful perspective.

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. experiential tourism: the experience and its dimensions.

The theoretical background that supports the hypotheses’ definition and operationalization of the concepts involved in this research has to be seen in the theory of experience economy and its application in the tourism industry. The rise of the experiential trend in modern economies is nowadays bringing the hospitality and tourism sector into a new competitive stage. New technological advances and the easy access to information have meant that those elements traditionally designed to differentiate what is being offered in the market can be easily replicated by competitors, nullifying their differential power and making them interchangeable in consumers’ eyes [ 21 ]. According to Jensen and Prebensen [ 22 ], experience-based tourism can be considered an offer that differentiates itself from more conventional tourism practices due to its intangible and emotional value which is what modern tourists seek and appreciate most in their holiday time. Therefore, the tourism industry faces the challenge of turning its proposals into experiences and providing what is currently being offered with a new emotional and intangible value in order to identify new competitive advantages [ 23 ].

Water and tourism have traditionally been studied from two different focal points: the environmental concern, as tourism activities are water-consuming and polluting practices [ 11 ]; and the health and wellness perspective, with a specific reference to thermal and spa activities [ 24 , 25 ]. This work considers the water-tourism connections under this second approach and highlights the experiential value of water-related tourism practices.

Health and wellness tourism has recently been a focus of attraction in tourism research as, nowadays, people are particularly sensitive to safeguarding their personal wellness and conducting a healthy lifestyle [ 3 ]. As a consequence, the concept of health has widened its boundaries, being a synonym for happiness, wellbeing and long life, and more than just the absence of diseases [ 25 ]. This new social consciousness introduces some changes regarding tourists’ decisions and preferences and offers some new opportunities for tourism destinations’ management and innovation.

Besides rest and relaxation, physical and psychological recovery, modern tourists have an expectation of personal enrichment in their holidays [ 26 ]. In this line, experiential travel and healthy practices may provide benefits to tourists beyond satisfaction and enjoyment [ 4 ], contributing to enhancing their perception of personal quality of life [ 8 , 9 ].

Pine and Gilmore [ 20 ] made the most significant contribution to the definition of the experience concept. The authors developed a conceptual model defining experiences which has been largely applied to assessing experientiality in different tourism contexts [ 27 , 28 , 29 ]. The authors describe experiences by means of two dimensions: participation and connection, embedded in a spectrum from passive to active, and from absorption to immersion. The participation implies that consumers are impacted by the experience, while the connection dimension assesses the degree to which the tourists themselves impact the experience, contributing to its creation [ 20 ]. The intersection of these two dimensions gives birth to four realms defining the experience concept, also known as the 4Es’ model, as its components are entertainment, education, esthetics and escape.

The water-related activities considered in this research have a high experiential potential. At a conceptual level they fit the model proposed by Pine and Gilmore [ 20 ]. With regard to the ‘escape’ component, these activities are often held in outstanding natural settings which induce the feeling of escaping from the daily contexts. The physical contact with water has a relaxing power due to the feeling of the lack of body weight perceived while immersed. Therefore, tourists who decide to practice these activities have, in water, an effective vehicle to escape from stress and routine. The ‘esthetics’ dimension is provided by the beauty of the landscapes related to water. Healthy water-related activities are ‘educational’ as tourists who choose these practices can learn about the beneficial properties of water for human health and differentiate between the kinds of waters and the effects of its uses. Finally, water-based experiences provide ‘entertainment’ with activities such as observing landscapes, the contemplation of sounds and the colours of water, and the enjoyment of baths and water-treatments.

2.2. Variables and Hypotheses Definition

2.2.1. experiential satisfaction.

According to Kim et al. [ 30 ], research on travel and tourism has largely examined the tourists’ satisfaction concept. Similarly, Neal and Gursoy [ 31 ] assert that customer satisfaction is frequently examined for being a topic capable of enhancing the destination’s competitiveness by means of inducing loyal behaviors and intentions of revisiting the destination in the future [ 32 ].

The new experiential push that pervaded the tourism industry, as well as the whole modern economy, entailed some changes in the treatment of satisfaction. This variable has been traditionally considered to be predicted by functional factors (i.e., quality, value and image) [ 30 , 33 ]. However, few researches offer useful insights demonstrating that new affective and emotional concepts, such as pleasure, arousal, joy, love, positive surprise, mood and hedonics, are gradually integrating [ 7 , 34 , 35 ] or even substituting the traditional utility-based approach to satisfaction [ 7 , 36 , 37 ]. Satisfaction is considered a key driver for customer experience assessment [ 38 ].

Scientific literature provides numerous evidences supporting the relationship between emotions and satisfaction [ 36 ] and shows that a growing consensus exists on the need to incorporate emotional and affective components in the assessment of this variable [ 39 ]. Lin and Kuo [ 40 ] found proof of the relationship between tourist experience and satisfaction. Agyeiwaah et al. [ 41 ] demonstrate the relationship in the context of culinary tourism, Ali et al. [ 42 ] in creative tourism, and more specifically, Luo et al. [ 18 ] in wellness tourism experiences.

According to Pine and Gilmore [ 43 ] the 4Es’ model leads to satisfaction. Some researchers have already tested the relationship between the experience concept and satisfaction. Oh et al. [ 29 ] found significant evidence linking the esthetic component of the experience and satisfaction. Similarly, Hosany and Witham [ 28 ] demonstrated that esthetics and entertainment significantly contribute to satisfaction. Quadri-Felitti and Fiore [ 27 ] empirically showed the positive relationship between education and esthetics on satisfaction. Considering the preceding, the following hypothesis is proposed:

Healthy water-based experiences have a positive impact on tourists’ experiential satisfaction.

2.2.2. Quality of Life

Holidays are generally considered events that increase wellbeing and quality of life [ 44 ]. Research on quality of life regarding the tourism experience is an emerging area of study, considered as an important field of tourism studies because of its relationship with short-term and long-term effects on individuals, on businesses, and on society [ 38 ]. According to Luo et al. [ 18 ] since the past decade, wellness tourism has been a booming industry, making it relevant to understand how visitors achieve quality of life through the wellness experience, in which healthy water-based tourism experiences has to be included.

Connections between tourism and quality of life have started to be explored and have recently become a focus in tourism studies [ 45 ]. Many authors started to test the potential relationship that exists between tourism experiences, travellers’ satisfaction and tourists’ happiness [ 3 , 8 , 9 , 46 , 47 ]. Gilbert and Abdullah [ 48 ] suggest that holidaymaking can improve the level of happiness experienced by tourists. Similarly, Puczkó and Smith [ 49 ] define holidays as ‘a state of temporary happiness’ (p. 265) associated with some specific activities and behaviours that people have while on holidays.

Neal et al. [ 46 ] in their study on vacation experience and quality of life showed that satisfaction with tourism services is a positive determinant of overall quality of life. More specifically, within the experiential context, Kim et al. [ 26 ] confirms that a strong relationship links satisfaction with a travel experience together with the individuals’ perception of their overall quality of life. Luo et al. [ 18 ] found that in wellness tourism visitors’ satisfaction with experiences predict quality of life. This supports the following hypothesis:

Experience satisfaction has a positive impact on tourists’ quality of life.

2.2.3. Loyalty

Loyalty is a traditional marketing outcome where the importance has been increasingly recognised in tourism and hospitality research [ 50 ]. Satisfaction is often considered a significant determinant of loyalty and future behaviour intentions [ 51 , 52 ]. It could be thought that providing satisfying experiences will possibly drive loyal behaviours in the future, which usually coincides with positive word-of-mouth and revisiting intentions. However, the tourism market is in constant change and new trends in consumers’ desires and needs bring tourism marketing to face ever-new challenges that make it more difficult for the plain satisfaction-loyalty binomial to remain effective. Kim and Ritchie [ 53 ] maintain that satisfaction alone is no longer enough to drive positive future behaviours, as researches have noted that more than the 60% of satisfied costumers decide to switch to another firm. Thus, it has to be recognized that, in order for satisfaction to effectively result in loyal intentions, some other components should intervene.

Experientiality is challenging the traditional idea of loyalty [ 54 , 55 ]. The tourists’ search for unique experiences and wanderlust are forcing a reassessment of the concept in light of new experientiality. In this context, loyalty should be, on one hand, addressed towards new experience-related objects, rather than the destination (i.e., the kind of experience itself), and on the other, new antecedents should be involved in the loyalty-forming process (i.e., quality of life). As a consequence, this research considers loyalty towards two objects: the destination and the water-based experiences. In addition, quality of life is introduced in the conceptual model as an antecedent of both variables considered for loyalty.

Within the experiential literature, some studies confirm that experiential satisfaction is a direct antecedent of behavioural intentions [ 56 , 57 , 58 ] and that quality of life, or similar concepts, is a new antecedent of loyalty [ 26 , 54 , 59 ].

Literature points out that positive tourism experiences could enhance repeat visits and recommendations [ 41 ]. Wu and colleagues [ 56 , 57 , 58 ] provide empirical evidences supporting the theoretical relationship that links the experiential satisfaction with loyalty. The authors in their studies on theme parks [ 58 ], the golf industry [ 56 ] and heritage tourism [ 57 ] confirm that experiential satisfaction leads to loyal behaviours in the future. Other authors in other tourism contexts verified that relationship [ 40 , 41 , 42 ]. These results offer a valuable support to the following hypotheses:

Experiential satisfaction has a positive impact on loyalty to the experience.

Experiential satisfaction has a positive impact on loyalty to the destination.

With regard to the consideration of quality of life as a direct antecedent of loyalty, some valuable insights can be found in Kim et al. [ 26 ], Lin [ 54 ] and Kim et al. [ 59 ].

Kim et al. [ 59 ], in their study on chain restaurants, confirm that consumers’ wellbeing perceptions are the most powerful antecedents of future positive behaviours. Lin [ 54 ] shows that cuisine experiences and psychological wellbeing are important determinants of revisit intentions. Kim et al. [ 26 ], following a structural path starting from elderly tourists’ involvement in tourism experiences and resulting in revisiting intentions, showed how satisfaction and quality of life contribute to determine the tourists desire to revisit the destination. Their results confirm that quality of life is an effective predictor of loyal behaviours. Therefore, the following hypotheses are proposed:

Quality of life has a positive impact on loyalty to the experience.

Quality of life has a positive impact on loyalty to the destination.

The hypothesized relationships are graphically presented in Figure 1 .

Theoretical model.

3. Methodology

The study setting is the region of Extremadura, a southwest region of Spain, where water has been traditionally seen as an abundant resource. However, growing irrigation demands under a low price are outstripping the supply of raw water and competing with other uses [ 60 ], a challenge that could be faced with sustainable tourism practices. The region relies on more than 1500 kilometres of inland water, more than 60 natural-based bath areas and 7 thermal spas, according to the Touristic Plan of Extremadura 2017–2020 promoted by the Government of Extremadura. The data shapes the region as a destination to enjoy diverse tourism water experiences, and thus an excellent place to locate this study.

This research relied on an exploratory study using quantitative methodology to evaluate the proposed model through analyses based on structural equation modelling (SEM), due to its capacity to test several relationships established in a model that emerges from theory [ 61 ].

The population was identified in customers of thermal spas of Extremadura and other similar establishments. The tool used for data collection was a self-administered paper-based survey, complemented with an online survey.

The scales used to measure the variables of the model were validated in previous studies and have been adapted to the context of this research (see Table 1 ).

Scales used.

The questionnaire used multi-item scales rather than one-item scales, as suggested by MacKenzie et al. [ 63 ]. The indicators were measured on a five-point Likert scale.

The questionnaire was distributed to the customers enjoying thermal spa visits and other similar water-based experiences in Extremadura. The dissemination of the questionnaires was conducted using two procedures: a paper-based questionnaire in thermal establishments and an online questionnaire. To ensure that no biases were introduced in data analysis due to the use of two collecting procedures, a t-test for independent samples was performed. The results confirm the equality of means between the two groups of data. Only 2 out of 32 indicators showed statistically significant differences, thus the potential bias was minimal and can be assumed. The two subsamples have been unified for the model assessment.

A total of 184 completed questionnaires were collected between 3th of November and 24th of December of 2017, using a non-probability convenience sampling. The sample size is suitable as it accomplishes the criterion proposed by Hair et al. [ 64 ], who propose a minimum value for the item-response ratio between 1:5 and 1:10.

Following Hair et al.’s [ 61 ] guidelines, the partial least square (PLS) technique was considered the most appropriate method for the assessment of the hypothesised model versus models based on covariances, considering that it contains a second-order construct (experience) and reflective and formative indicators, thus a complex model structure. It is also appropriate for relatively small samples, as in this study. In addition, the PLS algorithm transforms non-normal data, so results are robust to the condition of normality [ 65 ]. The SmartPLS 2.0 M3 software (SmartPLS GmbH, Hamburg, Germany) was employed for the model evaluation, while the descriptive analysis and the collinearity test were performed with IBM SPSS Statistics, Version 22 (IBM Corp, Armonk, NY, USA)

4.1. Sample Profile

The sample was composed of 37.0% men and 57.6% women. Within this research, the tourists visiting thermal spas in Extremadura (Spain) came from other Spanish regions (56.7%), had a mature age (59.8% were ‘more than 55 years old’) and a high education level (36.4%) (see Table 2 ).

Socio-demographic sample profile ( n = 184).

Regarding the frequency that this sample engages in tourism experiences linked to the binomial water-health, 34.2% asserts that they only ‘sometimes’ practice this kind of activity, and 31.0% said ‘frequently’. This result points out that the users of thermal spas surveyed are loyal to tourism water-related experiences. With respect to the interest that respondents have in water-based experiences, the most valued one was ‘visiting health spas’ (3.87 out of 5 points), followed by ‘observing landscapes related to water’ (3.68), ‘visiting fluvial beaches’ (3.41) and ‘trekking routes related to water’ (3.35). It is important to highlight that the other rated activities, which were ‘visiting spas’, ‘river boat trips’, ‘watching aquatic birds’ and ‘asking for water menus in a restaurant’ have achieved a mean over 2.5. Respondents recognise the benefit that water-based tourism experiences have on health, considering the high scores registered by this indicator (4.24 out of 5). The sample also confirms a high interest in including water-based experiences in their trips (4.01). Hence, these activities reckon with the potential of a latent tourism demand. In addition, respondents appreciate water-based tourism experiences as potential enhancers of personal health (4.01) (see Table 3 ).

Opinion about water-based experiences.

4.2. Analysis of The Model

4.2.1. measurement model assessment.

Since the proposed model is multidimensional, the two-stage approach was selected for its assessment [ 66 ]. In order to perform the model assessment, this study followed the guidelines proposed by Wright et al. [ 67 ]. Following MacKenzie et al.’s indications [ 63 ], the constructs taken into account in the first step were considered reflective. Consequently, the measurement model was evaluated to assess the items’ reliability, internal consistency, convergent validity and discriminant validity [ 61 ]. Regarding individual reliability, all the indicators are above the acceptable threshold of 0.707 [ 61 , 68 ]. Construct reliability was measured through composite reliability (CR). According to Nunnally and Bernstein [ 69 ], the values obtained in this study are acceptable, being in the range of 0.60–0.70 (see Table 4 ).

Descriptive statistics and measurement model assessment: reflective indicators (I).

Note: a Critical t -values: * p < 0.05; ** p < 0.01; *** p < 0.001; ns not significant (based on t (4999), one-tailed test); t (0.05; 4999) = 1.645; t (0.01; 4999) = 2.327; t (0.001; 4999) = 3.092. b Composite reliability. c Average variance extracted.

With regard to convergent validity, the average variance extracted (AVE) is above 0.50, so all the constructs fall into the adequate parameters according to Hair et al. [ 61 ] (see Table 4 ). Discriminant validity is confirmed when the correlations between the constructs are lower than the square root of the AVE (values in bold in Table 5 ) [ 68 ].

Discriminant validity assessment (I).

a Quality of life. b Educational. c Entertainment. d Esthetics. e Escape. f Destination loyalty. g Experience loyalty. h Experience Satisfaction.

The scores resulting from the first step can now be used for the second step in order to model the second-order construct (experience). The aggregated scores, calculated by PLS for the experience construct, generate a new set of data to be used in the following analysis. The model shows a novel nomological structure, including reflective and formative variables, that needs to be assessed in its measurement and structural validity. The experience construct now acts as formative [ 63 ]. Moreover, the dimensionality of experience, proposed by Pine and Gilmore [ 20 ], has been widely confirmed in previous research and this is assumed to be further evidence supporting the formative nature of the construct.

The reflective measurement model was analysed by repeating the steps described above. The analysis of items’ reliability, CR and AVE revealed a satisfactory evaluation (see Table 6 ).

Measurement model assessment: reflective indicators (II).

Table 7 shows that discriminant validity is demonstrated.

Discriminant validity assessment (II).

a Quality of life. b Destination loyalty. c Experience loyalty. d Experience Satisfaction.

The evaluation of a formative measurement model required an examination of any possible multicollinearity between the indicators, an assessment of the weight of each indicator and a review of their significance. For all the indicators, the variance inflation factor (VIF) was below 5 [ 61 ]. Therefore, no problem was found with multicollinearity between the indicators of the experience construct. The weights of the indicators entertainment and escape are statistically significant. However, the weights of the indicators educational and escape are not significant. Nevertheless, some authors recommend maintaining the items, as long as their loadings are statistically significant, at a confidence level of 99%, and absence of multicollinearity is assured [ 70 ] (see Table 8 ).

Collinearity statistics and analysis of formative indicators.

a Variance inflation factor. b Critical t -values: * p < 0.05; ** p < 0.01; *** p < 0.001; ns not significant (based on t (4999), two-tailed test); t (0.05; 4999) = 1.65; t (0.01; 4999) = 1.96; t (0.001; 4999) = 2.58. c Educational. d Entertainment. e Esthetics. f Escape.

4.2.2. Structural Model Assessment

R 2 of each dependent construct needs to be analysed, as well as the paths’ significance, by using the bootstrapping method [ 61 ]. Table 7 shows the R 2 values for the endogenous variables. The best explained variable is experience loyalty (67.1% or substantial-moderate), followed by destination loyalty (64.7% or substantial-moderate), experience satisfaction (51.9% or moderate) and, finally, quality of life (46.0% or moderate). This table also shows how much the predictive variables contribute to the explained variance of the endogenous variables [ 71 ]. The analysis of the structural paths’ significance was done with the bootstrapping method, following Hair et al.’s [ 61 ] guidelines. All the hypotheses are statistically significant (see Table 9 ).

Effects on endogenous variables and structural model results.

Notes: a R 2 value of 0.75, 0.5 or 0.25 for the latent endogenous variables in structural models can be considered substantial, moderate or weak, respectively [ 61 ]. b Critical t -values: * p < 0.05; ** p < 0.01; *** p < 0.001; ns not significant (based on t (4999), one-tailed test); t (0.05; 4999) = 1.645; t (0.01; 4999) = 2.327; t (0.001; 4999) = 3.092.

Figure 2 graphically presents the results of the measurement and structural model assessment.

Graphical summary of the model assessment. * ENT: Entertainment. EDU: Educational. ESC: Escape. EST: Esthetics. EXP: Experience. ESA: Experience Satisfaction. QOL: Quality of life. ELO: Experience loyalty. DLO: Destination loyalty.

5. Discussion

The model proposed in this study provides a better comprehension of the impact of healthy water-based tourism experiences in perceived quality of life, satisfaction and loyalty. It has been empirically validated supporting all the model hypotheses established from the literature review. Thus, the results show the importance of offering experiential value with tourism products in the context of tourism experiences based on water and health. The model offers a substantial-moderate capacity to explain the variation of the endogenous variables, which are experience satisfaction (R 2 = 51.9%), quality of life (R 2 = 46.0%), experience loyalty (R 2 = 67.1%) and destination loyalty (R 2 = 64.7%). It is worth noting the role of experience satisfaction in determining experience loyalty (42.4%) and destination loyalty (56.4%). The positive relationship between satisfaction and loyalty has been largely confirmed in scientific literature [ 51 , 52 ] and it is further proven in the context of healthy water-based tourism experiences.

It is important to highlight the positive impact that the experience variable exerts on experience satisfaction (β = 0.720 ***) (H1+). This result is consistent with past research [ 40 , 41 , 42 , 43 ], and more specifically with Luo et al.’s [ 18 ] research that verified the relationship between wellness tourism experience and satisfaction.

An assessment of the dimensionality of the experience reveals that entertainment and esthetics are the most determining factors of the construct. This result is closely related to the outcomes reached by Oh et al. [ 29 ] and Hosany and Witham [ 28 ] who found a key role of these components versus education and escape. Similarly, Quadri-Felitti and Fiore [ 27 ] identified the impact of esthetic on satisfaction. According to Oh et al. [ 29 ], these findings suggest the relative importance of the four realms of the experience proposed by Pine and Gilmore [ 20 ] depending on the study context. The results of this research, showing the remarkable relevance of the entertainment and esthetics dimensions, is reasonable if considering that baths and water treatments are enjoyable practices and that water with its shapes, sounds, movements and colours embellishes outdoor and indoor spaces.

The education and escape dimensions turned out to be of lower importance. Regarding the former, an explanation exists that can be found in the low consciousness about the properties that water has on human health, and a general lack of ‘water culture’. The latter can be explained by the therapeutic focus of many thermal spas and similar establishments. This can introduce the feeling of being involved in medical practices to address health problems or ailments more than in pleasant activities capable of taking tourists away from daily problems and worries. This may suggest the importance of complementing the traditional thermal spas’ offerings with new proposals related with the enjoyment of water and more focus on wellbeing rather than on health. In short, education and escape may become more important dimensions when a water culture has gained force.

Even if statistics do not fully support the role of education and escape as determining factors of the experience construct as their weights turned out to be non-significant, they still make a contribution to the definition of the experience variable according to their loadings’ scores (see Table 6 ). Therefore, they cannot be disregarded.

Regarding the link between experience satisfaction and the individual’s quality of life (H2+), the findings of this study are consistent with the ones obtained by Neal et al. [ 46 ] and Kim et al. [ 26 ]. The results also confirm the strength of this relationship (β = 0.678 ***), concluding that healthy tourism water-based experiences are effective enhancers of quality of life.

In line with Neal et al. [ 46 ], this research supports the idea that the tourism industry provides ‘experiences that offer enduring types of satisfaction that positively impact the overall quality of life of those participating in the tourism experience’ (p. 162). These results are also in accordance with Luo et al.’s [ 18 ] findings in wellness tourism.

The proposed model also demonstrates the relationship between experience satisfaction and loyalty in accordance with general marketing literature [ 52 ] and similar studies [ 40 , 41 , 42 ]. Following other authors [ 54 , 55 ], this work challenges the traditional conceptualisation of loyalty by considering two objects towards which loyal behaviours can be prompted: the destination and the kind of experience itself. Under this original approach, this research confirms the direct impact that experiential satisfaction exerts on both experiential loyalty (H3+) (β = 0.545 ***) and on destination loyalty (H4+) (β = 0.707 ***).

This study also finds support for the relationship between quality of life and loyalty, which is in line with the outcomes of other authors [ 26 , 54 , 59 ], validating the importance of quality of life as an effective predictor of loyalty behaviours. However, some specifications are needed in the context of this research. The direct impact that quality of life has on destination loyalty is low (H6+) (β = 0.135 *) if compared with the one it exerts on experiential loyalty (H5+) (β = 0.346 ***). Then, it can be affirmed that in experiential contexts with healthy water-based tourism, the perceived enhancement of quality of life is a more effective driver of loyal intentions towards the experience rather than for loyalty towards the destination. Therefore, experiences appear to be more valuable tools than destinations in the loyalty formation process, which is possibly even more noticeable in experiences that have the potential of enhancing an individual’s health.

The positive results obtained by the proposed model support the suitability of considering healthy water-based tourism experiences as a strategy which capitalises water in a sustainable way and fosters economic and social benefits. The former are achieved with the creation of an innovative tourism proposal capable of diversifying the offer of a territory that counts with bodies of water that have marked the landscapes and lifestyles. This diversification of the tourism industry has a positive direct impact on economic revenues and employment. The latter, that is, are social benefits that are referred to two beneficiaries: tourists and residents. Travellers directly benefit from the contact of a new tourism attraction that provides them physical and mental wellbeing and recovery. Indirectly, residents can enjoy the network of infra-structures and services developed for the water-based tourism activity, even more important in rural and depopulated settings. Thus, quality of life is not only promoted for tourists, but also for the residents of the territories in which the tourism activity is developed.

In addition, it is essential to take into account the development of this type of destination and tourism products from a structured planning point of view. In tourism it is vital to plan bearing in mind the application of sustainable criteria, which is more important in fragile settings such as the ones with water resources. This is one of the most important requirements to implement a successful tourism development strategy in the long term.

6. Conclusions

In this work we explore the impact that tourism water-based activities practiced with a healthy purpose have on significant marketing outcomes such as satisfaction, loyalty and individuals’ quality of life. By applying the 4Es’ model [ 20 ], the dimensions of entertainment and esthetics were the most influential in creating experiences in the context considered for this study. As other authors did before in different contexts [ 27 , 28 , 29 ], this research validated, for the first time, the 4Es’ model in water-and-health tourism.

This work offers an original perspective on how tourism experiences based on water and health can be considered and implemented as a strategy. The main contribution of the study is the confirmation that water-based practices offer experiential value to tourists and exert a positive impact on tourists’ quality of life, satisfaction and loyalty. Those results open a wide ground field of study where water is the central resource supporting new proposals. Water-based experiences can be considered the seed of a new value for water, which in turn can develop and commercialise healthy water-based tourism experiences that can foster economic and social benefits. Given that, the promotion of this new water culture through tourism could enhance the consciousness about the importance of implementing smart and sustainable water management strategies in order to assure the preservation of this essential resource.

The theoretical contributions of this work are threefold. Firstly, it is confirmed that tourism activities based on water and health are perceived as tourism experiences, according to the 4Es’ model [ 20 ], whose scale has been validated in the context of this research. Secondly, the results achieved offer empirical support to the structural model proposed which suggests that the experiences based on water and health have a positive impact on satisfaction, quality of life and loyalty. Finally, this research puts forward a brand-new approach for satisfaction and loyalty. These two variables are studied towards the tourism experience itself, rather than measuring the tourists’ satisfaction with regard to functional elements and loyalty towards the destination.

The results of this research have useful practical implications for those companies and destinations that have in water and health their main tourism attractions and that wish to turn their offers into more experiential proposals. The study suggests that, in order to foster experientiality in water-based activity, it would be recommendable to put forward tourism products that combine the visits to thermal spas and treatments with other offers, such as nature-based activities, wellness practices (e.g., yoga and mindfulness) and experiences focused on raising a new awareness for the benefits of water on human health.

The study’s findings show how tourism products linking water and health are a suitable response to the current desires and needs of modern tourists, increasingly interested in living authentic, educational and emotional experiences during their holiday time [ 1 , 7 ]. Moreover, this research confirms the important role that water-based experiences have on enhancing the tourists’ perceptions of quality of life, and how this drives tourists’ satisfaction and future loyal behaviours, with a special emphasis on behavioural intentions towards a specific kind of experience (water-based in this context). This suggests that, in the current experiential trend, managers and practitioners need to pursue loyal clients by focusing on the promotion of experiences more than the destination’s attributes in order to better their performances and increase their revenues.

In the context of natural settings, the quest for loyalty from tourists who are interested in healthy water-based tourism experiences has to be interpreted as a sustainable strategy to manage water in the long-term. If healthy water-based tourism experiences were promoted from a natural resources point of view, noticeable benefits for nature, individuals, companies and local residents could be obtained through quality of life and economic and social benefits, which can definitively endorse preserving natural environments and fostering a ‘water culture’.

Finally, the use of bodies of water for tourism purposes generates a net of interests for the protection of water’s quality not just for its environmental value, but also for being economically worthy as the engine of a new economic and social push. Water-based experiences have the power of revitalising rural economies, generating new employment opportunities, saving decaying societies and, most importantly, encouraging a respectful and long-lasting use of water.

The limitations and delimitations of this study have to be seen in the use of a non-probability sampling procedure, which could limit the results’ generalisability. The combination of a paper-based and an online technique for data collection may have introduced some bias, even though it did not compromise the validity of the results according to the outputs of a t-test performed. Despite these limitations, this research can possibly contribute to the identification of a new research line linking water and tourism that can add new knowledge to the experience and wellness tourism literature.

The study was applied in thermal spas and similar establishments. Future research could be focused on nature-based activities related to water, which may offer more consistent results from the application of the 4Es’ model [ 20 ]. This may allow a greater generalisation of this study’s results and provide significant contributions to other kinds of destinations and companies that use water as a main tourism attraction.

Acknowledgments

Project co-funded by FEDER and Junta de Extremadura (Spain) (Reference No. GR18109).

Author Contributions

Conceptualization, A.M.C.-C. and E.D.-C.; methodology, A.M.C.-C., J.M.H.-M.; resources, J.A.F.-F.; data curation, J.A.F.-F.; writing – original draft preparation A.M.C.-C.; writing – review & editing, E.D.-C.; supervision, J.M.H.-M. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Rising global temperatures are already affecting the tourism industry - here's how

From rising heat to rising seas, holiday hotspots the world over are at risk from climate change. Image:  Gaddafi Rusli on Unsplash

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• Tourism is crucial to many economies, but rising global temperatures are putting parts of the industry at risk.
• The climate crisis is changing the face of many tourist destinations and is already making some holidaymakers rethink their plans.
• The World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on the Future of Sustainable Tourism is working to help the tourism sector build towards a more sustainable future.

Hot weather is what many people go on holiday for. But record global temperatures have been sending people home early from their vacations this July, raising questions about what kind of impact the climate crisis could have on the tourism sector – and on tourism-dependent economies.

Greece – where travel and tourism make up 15% of GDP – has had to evacuate over 2,000 holidaymakers after wildfires broke out on the island of Rhodes. Athens took the unprecedented step of closing its top tourist attraction, the Acropolis, after temperatures reached 45°C .

"The climate crisis is already here ,” said Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. “It will manifest itself everywhere in the Mediterranean with greater disasters."

Over in Italy, visitors to Rome have been returning home early because of the heatwave, while hospitals have faced a rise in the number of medical emergencies . Admissions at one hospital reached their highest since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Soaring temperatures have not just been ending holidays – they’ve even stopped some from getting started. This is because aircraft find it harder to get off the ground in hotter conditions, as it makes the air less dense .

US airlines flying out of Las Vegas – where temperatures hit 46°C – have consequently had to reduce passenger numbers, remove baggage, reduce the level of fuel they are carrying or delay flights until temperatures fall.

The impact of the climate crisis on tourism

The climate crisis has played an "absolutely overwhelming" part in the northern hemisphere heatwave , according to World Weather Attribution. And heatwaves will become hotter and longer unless the world quickly halts its use of fossil fuels, they say.

The tourism sector creates around a tenth of the greenhouse gas emissions that are driving the climate crisis , according to the World Travel & Tourism Council. Practically half of all transport emissions stem from global tourism, other studies say. And total emissions from tourism are forecast to rise by a quarter between 2016 and 2030, says the UN World Tourism Organization.

But the tourism industry and tourism-dependent economies are also highly vulnerable to the impacts of rising temperatures.

The Caribbean attracted over 28 million visitors in 2022 and its economy is more reliant on travel and tourism than any other region , according to the World Travel & Tourism Council. Tourism makes up around 90% of GDP in Aruba and the British Virgin Islands .

Yet these low-lying states are seeing sea levels rise almost 10% faster than the global average , according to the World Meteorological Association. The vast majority of holiday resorts in the Caribbean are coastal, leaving 60% of them at risk from sea level rise , according to the University of Cambridge.

Biodiversity damage

Coral bleaching and increasing droughts are already impacting the Caribbean’s tourism potential , the UK government notes.

Meanwhile, South-East Asia’s most popular costal destinations are suffering environmental damage from factors including pollution and overtourism . Thailand’s Maya Bay, Malaysia’s Sipadan Island and the Philippines’ Boraca Island are all being impacted, and some countries in the region are now closing tourist spots to give the most damaged areas time to recover , the Harvard School of Public Health notes.

“As the prime motivation for visitors to come to the region hinges on local landscapes, biodiversity, heritage and cultures, the sector’s survival depends on the ability to retain and preserve as much of these natural resources as possible,” The ASEAN Post reports.

The prospects of African safaris could also be hit by the climate crisis, which is forecast to lead to the loss of over half of the continent’s bird and mammal species by 2100 and trigger huge losses of plant species .

Measures are being taken to protect the continent’s natural bounties. The Seychelles islands off East Africa have added conservation guidlines to the national constitution – the first time a country has done so.

Sustainable, nature-based tourism is a potentially huge economic driver for Africa , and could create 40% more full-time jobs than agricutlure, the UN Environment Programme says.

High temperatures will change tourism patterns

Rising temperatures are likely to result in tourists travelling in spring and autumn rather than the summer , as well as opting for cooler destinations, Italy’s environment ministry says.

There has already been a 10% drop in the number of people planning to visit the Mediterranean in June-November this year following last year’s high temperatures, according to the European Travel Commission. It says tourists are considering trips to the Czech Republic, Denmark, Ireland and Bulgaria instead.

On top of this, “ large-scale land loss” is already eating into the Mediterranean’s beaches , according to Germany’s federal environment agency. One beach in Mallorca now has space for half the amount of huts it used to have, as well as fewer sun loungers, DW News reports.

The Global Risks Report 2023 ranked failure to mitigate climate change as one of the most severe threats in the next two years, while climate- and nature- related risks lead the rankings by severity over the long term.

The World Economic Forum’s Centre for Nature and Climate is a multistakeholder platform that seeks to safeguard our global commons and drive systems transformation. It is accelerating action on climate change towards a net-zero, nature-positive future.

Learn more about our impact:

• Scaling up green technologies: Through a partnership with the US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, John Kerry, and over 65 global businesses, the First Movers Coalition has committed $12 billion in purchase commitments for green technologies to decarbonize the cement and concrete industry.
• 1 trillion trees: Over 90 global companies have committed to conserve, restore and grow more than 8 billion trees in 65 countries through the 1t.org initiative – which aims to achieve 1 trillion trees by 2030.
• Sustainable food production: Our Food Action Alliance is engaging 40 partners who are working on 29 flagship initiatives to provide healthy, nutritious, and safe foods in ways that safeguard our planet. In Vietnam, it supported the upskilling of 2.2 million farmers and aims to provide 20 million farmers with the skills to learn and adapt to new agricultural standards.
• Eliminating plastic pollution: Our Global Plastic Action Partnership is bringing together governments, businesses and civil society to shape a more sustainable world through the eradication of plastic pollution. In Ghana, more than 2,000 waste pickers are making an impact cleaning up beaches, drains and other sites.
• Protecting the ocean: Our 2030 Water Resources Group has facilitated almost $1 billion to finance water-related programmes , growing into a network of more than 1,000 partners and operating in 14 countries/states.
• Circular economy: Our SCALE 360 initiative is reducing the environmental impacts of value chains within the fashion, food, plastics and electronics industries, positively impacting over 100,000 people in 60 circular economy interventions globally.

Want to know more about our centre’s impact or get involved? Contact us .

The spike in temperatures is also worrying the organizers of the 2024 Olympics Games in Paris . They are closely monitoring long-term weather models, with International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach saying the climate crisis is affecting how sporting events – a major driver of tourism – will be organized around the globe.

Colder climates are suffering, too

The Alps region attracts around 120 million tourists a year , and tourism is critical to the economies of many local towns. Skiing and snowboarding are top of many visitor lists, but rising global temperatures have reduced seasonal snow cover in the Alps by 8.4% per decade in the past 50 years.

Canada’s Whistler ski resort has responded to this by offering more snow-free activities – so much so that it now makes more money in summer, according to TIME magazine.

But adapting in this way is not an option for all tourism destinations, such as coastal resorts. With coastal tourism accounting for more than 60% of European holidays and more than 80% of US tourism revenues, the tourism industry and the countries that rely on it may need to urgently rethink the way they operate.

“In the coming years, the success of travel and tourism businesses and destinations will be increasingly tied to their ability to manage and operate under ever greater ecological and environmental threats,” says the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index .

Have you read?

Is 2023 going to be the hottest year on record, what is sustainable aviation fuel and why are only 0.1% of flights powered by it, how global tourism can become more sustainable, inclusive and resilient, how tourism can change.

Sustainable tourism is one way to help protect countries and economies at risk from the climate crisis. It is also one of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals .

The UN World Tourism Organization defines sustainable tourism as “tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities".

This could include limiting tourist numbers (as is being done in Southern France to help protect ecosystems ), banning polluting forms of transports (as the Dutch capital Amsterdam is doing with cruise ships and the Spanish city of Barcelona is trying to do ).

Staying only in environmentally friendly resorts is another option. Some are ensuring they run on renewable power, harvest rainwater and cut waste.

Avoiding flying is another option. British eco-charity Possible is promoting this through its Climate Perks initiative . UK companies who sign up agree to give staff increased paid leave to cover the time needed for slower, greener modes of transport such as trains or coaches when they go on holiday.

Ditching planes is also part of the “slow travel” trend . It advocates dropping the “bucket list” approach of ticking off as many destinations as possible, with travellers instead staying in one place and experiencing a local culture more fully.

The World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on the Future of Sustainable Tourism is working to help the tourism sector create pathways towards net-zero, nature-positive tourism that benefits local communities.

“Diversifying tourism strategies and activities is essential for countries to build resilience against economic fluctuations, mitigate overreliance on a single industry, and foster sustainable development that benefits both the local communities and the environment,” says Topaz Smith, Community Lead for Aviation, Travel and Tourism at the World Economic Forum.

“Long-term planning is crucial for a more risk-resilient travel and tourism sector that anticipates and plans for future headwinds while maximizing development potential.”

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Implications of climate and outdoor thermal comfort on tourism: the case of Italy

• Original Paper
• Published: 24 August 2017
• Volume 61 , pages 2229–2244, ( 2017 )

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• Ferdinando Salata   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-9740-034X 1 ,
• Iacopo Golasi 1 ,
• Riccardo Proietti 1 &
• Andrea de Lieto Vollaro 1  

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Whether a journey is pleasant or not usually depends on the climatic conditions which permit to perform outdoor activities. The perception of climatic conditions, determined by physiological and psychological factors, can vary according to different adaptation phenomena related to the person involved and the weather conditions of the place where they live. Studying the bioclimatology of a country characterized by a high flux of tourism, as e.g. Italy, can provide some important information about where and when is it better to visit a place. Some differences have to be specified though, like the local tourism, which is used to that type of climate, and international tourism, which is formed by people coming from countries with different types of climates. Therefore this paper examined the climatic conditions and outdoor thermal comfort through the Mediterranean Outdoor Comfort Index (MOCI) for local tourism and through the predicted mean vote (PMV) for international tourism. The cities examined were three (Venice, Rome and Palermo located in the North, Centre and South of Italy, respectively), where average information were collected every week for an entire year. Finally, a map of the entire Italian territory reporting the seasonal average values of these indexes was also reported.

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Acknowledgements

This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors. We are grateful to the Italian Air Force for their precious collaboration and support, providing our Department with the meteorological data which enabled the realization of this study. In particular, we want to thank the General Staff CSA—Meteorology Unit (represented by L. Col. Carmine Ranaldo and 1° Marshall David Palella) and COMET (represented by Col. AArnn Nav. Stefano Bianca and Marshall Andrea Gurrieri). We would like to extend warm thanks to the Major Andrea Gardon for his helpfulness. A special thanks to Mrs. Flavia Franco for the help she provided in the preparation of this paper.

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Ferdinando Salata, Iacopo Golasi, Riccardo Proietti & Andrea de Lieto Vollaro

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Salata, F., Golasi, I., Proietti, R. et al. Implications of climate and outdoor thermal comfort on tourism: the case of Italy. Int J Biometeorol 61 , 2229–2244 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00484-017-1430-1

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Received : 31 January 2017

Revised : 31 May 2017

Accepted : 11 August 2017

Published : 24 August 2017

Issue Date : December 2017

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/s00484-017-1430-1

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