France is fascinating with its cozy places for wellness and relaxation. French thermal resorts are renowned for their respectability and yet quite affordable prices by European standards. These spots are distinguished by a special atmosphere. It can be described in just three words: genuine French charm.
There are no two similar resorts in the country. Each has its own unique feature and a circle of admirers from different parts of the world. Additionally, French vacation spots are attractive because of their special romance. The French even try to invent many interesting legends for new resorts, featuring saints, kings, knights, beautiful ladies, harpies, gnomes, mermaids, dragons, and other incredible creatures.
Evian-les-Bains
The resort town on the shores of Lake Geneva holds significant weight in European politics. It is here that kings and heads of state often vacation, and international events are held. Evian-les-Bains is also the place where the famous “Evian” mineral water is bottled.
Its springs were discovered by a nobleman who was wandering in the lake’s vicinity, fleeing from revolutionaries. However, romantic French invented a legend about a beautiful maiden appearing to the count and telling him that the water heals diseases.
Nobleman de Lèse indeed confessed to his contemporaries that his liver and kidney condition improved. Today, Hollywood stars love the Evian-les-Bains water. Its main value lies in its richness in calcium, magnesium, sodium, and other beneficial microelements.
The area has many historical and architectural monuments. It is convenient to combine wellness procedures with excursions here. This is where the palace of the Lumière family, who created European cinema and did much for the resort’s development, is located.
Hotels that were built 200 years ago accommodate guests in the city. Notably, local restaurants excellently combine principles of gourmet and dietetic nutrition. In their halls, one can also view originals of famous artworks, including frescoes by Gustave Jaulmes.
One of the best European spa centers “Evian Royal SPA” and numerous medical centers that practice Thai massage, aromatherapy, mud therapy, yoga, Ayurveda, and more are located here.
The procedures help to eliminate gastrointestinal diseases, metabolic disorders, and the consequences of numerous stresses. Its water is used for body rejuvenation and detoxification.
Vichy
The namesake city and commune are often called the flagships of the French resort business. Vichy has long been known as one of the popular cultural centers of the Republic and Europe. Music lovers adore relaxing here, as they get the chance not only to listen to live operas performed by world-class stars but also to attend costume balls and masquerades in the spirit of the Gallant Age.
Vichy is also called a miniature Paris. This is due to the large number of boutiques, jewelry, and antique shops here. The commune is also famous for its cozy aristocratic parks, where it seems the very air heals from stress.
Interestingly, the word “Vichy” is the name of a fairy. According to legends, she has lived here since time immemorial.
People come here to treat gastrointestinal pathologies. Massage salons here provide effective help to those suffering from joint and back pains. The city’s cosmetic establishments use only local water, which has rejuvenating properties.
It should be noted that there is an opportunity to normalize skin conditions, relieving it from excessive dryness. The most famous bicarbonate-sodium sources in the area are: Grand Grille (rich in fluoride), Hospital (treats gastrointestinal diseases), Lucas (helps fight allergies, and the water is used to produce Vichy brand cosmetics), Célestins (pleasant-tasting water is bottled and sold), Boussage and Antoine (have a powerful rejuvenating effect), Lys and Dome (improve tissue microcirculation, relieve stress).
The area is also famous for its healing mud, known for its wound-healing properties since ancient times. During excavations, antiquities have often been found here, as Roman patricians also came to these lands to gain strength and health.
Dax
Famous for its radon waters, whose temperature reaches +55-60°C. The local springs are rich in calcium, magnesium, sulfur, and iron. Combined with sulfide-peat mud, they have an incredibly powerful health effect.
These natural gifts help detoxify the body, improve metabolic processes, and activate cell regeneration. Radon baths are also used for recovery procedures after psycho-emotional overloads.
Main indications for treatment in Dax include chronic pyelonephritis, cystitis, and urolithiasis. The local springs also help to eliminate pathologies of the musculoskeletal system, reducing the intensity and frequency of pain symptoms in those suffering from arthrosis and arthritis.
Men and women from all over the world come to the resort hoping to cure infertility. Radon water also helps improve the condition of the body in endocrine and cardiovascular diseases.
Dax’s nickname is “Happy City.” It was given by commoners as visits to the resort were allowed to those of non-noble origin just over 200 years ago.
Today, 18 thermal stations operate here, and old buildings are well-preserved. These buildings are now shopping centers, hotels, public spaces, giving the place a special color.
Balaruc-les-Bains
This is the name of the commune, resort town, and healing spring, thanks to which the area thrives. The hot spring here became known to people 150,000 years before our era.
There are also legends that Balaruc-les-Bains is inhabited by fairies, dragons, gnomes, and other legendary creatures in large numbers. If you think about it, after bathing in warm water and eating oysters served with exquisite wine, you might see even more.
The average temperature of the resort’s springs is +49°C. The water excellently relaxes after physical and mental exertion, quickly eliminates pain, and fills the tired body with vigor. The most famous spa salon here is “O’Balia.” It also owns the eponymous thermal baths, a sensory pool, and a large Japanese-style whirlpool bath.
Lovers of lagoon-type lakes will undoubtedly enjoy the Thau lake at the resort. It is essentially an inland sea, whose waters are rich in iodine and other microelements. Thau lake is loved by water sports enthusiasts. The area is also famous among gourmets as the place where the tastiest oysters in France are served.
Bagnoles-de-l’Orne
Another place where many French people firmly believe good fairies live. It is here that long ago a lord lived, to whom they revealed the secret of eternal youth. The resort town is also famous for its architectural monuments. They represent such an incredible mix of elements in different styles that you can’t help but believe in lovely fairies and drunken gnome builders.
Bagnoles-de-l’Orne is one of the unofficial capitals of natural cosmetics, where amazing products are created from local natural gifts. The water here is rich in various microelements. Combined with natural plant materials, effective preparations for skin rejuvenation, wrinkle removal, and other cosmetic defects are obtained.
The hallmark is the thermal spa hotel “Spa B’O”. The city center is a 10-minute walk from this establishment. The hotel is also a full-fledged spa center, whose visitors receive cosmetic and wellness treatments.
For their sessions, the specialists use unique detox methods. Recently, they added natural apple extract (from eco-friendly fruits) to their proprietary products and, based on the healing water, got another effective preparation for skin tissue rejuvenation.
Saint-Gervais-les-Bains
The commune and the oldest ski resort in the Republic are known far beyond Europe. Tourists come from all over the world to enjoy the cozy atmosphere of the old water treatment facility.
Saint-Gervais-les-Bains is conveniently located for travelers who do not like to stay in one place for long. It is easy to get from here to 4 skiing areas of “Evasion” and various Mont Blanc resorts.
There is also a large indoor skating rink, a disco, a nightclub, a cinema, many bars, and restaurants. The choice of hotels and accommodations at the resort is excellent. There are premium establishments and those with three stars.
Saint-Gervais-les-Bains has the famous Devil’s Bridge (a natural monument) and an old Christian temple. The main place for water treatment procedures is the Thermal Park, where the water temperature varies significantly.
Today, the resort is mainly popular with winter sports enthusiasts. They are usually surprised to learn that the area is interesting not only for its healing forest air, filled with phytoncides, but also for its miracle water. The latter is actively used to treat skin diseases and musculoskeletal pathologies.
Bagnères-de-Luchon
The resort’s name commemorates an ancient deity worshipped in these parts. Long ago, there was even a campsite for ancient people here. In the Neolithic era, this area was considered sacred, and mysterious rituals were performed here to attract hunting luck.
Bagnères-de-Luchon has a drier climate than neighboring resorts. Nature rarely acts up in the village and its surroundings. The most unusual phenomenon here is the increased air humidity. When its level changes, it usually rains with hail in Bagnères-de-Luchon, which the French equate to a terrible natural disaster.
According to official history, the resort has existed for 2,000 years, but recent research disproves this theory. The fact is that more and more thermal baths are being found here, built for nobles, military leaders, and even ordinary soldiers of Ancient Rome during the heyday of the imperial rule. For a long time, scientists considered the oldest architectural monument of the village to be a Christian temple built just 800 years ago.
Notably, medieval Christian pilgrims came here en masse, hoping for miraculous healing from ailments. Later studies confirmed that the water in the resort’s springs could indeed kill pathogenic microbes.
Today, fitness centers, ski, and cycling sports venues flourish in Bagnères-de-Luchon. They are as popular as spa salons. The water from local lakes, springs, and waterfalls is still known far beyond France for its antibacterial and pain-relieving properties.
Gréoux-les-Bains
The town looks overly calm and sleepy, which is why it is avoided by fans of noisy parties. Gréoux-les-Bains is ideal for tourists who prefer a measured, respectable vacation, the romance of leisurely walks, and the luxury of contemplating historical monuments against the backdrop of the picturesque nature of Provence.
There is a well-preserved powerful castle of the Knights Hospitaller (located near the city center). As befits a fortification, it is inhabited by ghosts. Nearby is the Verdon Park, whose charming appeal leaves no one indifferent.
It should be noted that there are few hotels here, but the conditions are excellent, and the water therapy services are varied. Locals also make fragrant lavender soap and delicious sweet pastries from thermal water, which are sold in city shops.
The best hotels in the city, according to travelers, are “Le Mas de La Crémaillère,” “Villa Borghese,” “Club Vacances Bleues Domaine de Château Laval,” and “Hôtel des Alpes.” Medical specialists and cosmetologists in these hotels practice thermal procedures combined with aromatherapy and mud treatment methods. The water here treats skin diseases, joint problems (including arthritis and rheumatism), and rejuvenates the body.
Vittel
The town with a charming name is known not only for its healing waters but also for its unusual architectural monuments. Here, harmony reigns among various styles: from neoclassical to Moorish, from bold minimalism to exquisite art deco.
The same harmonious atmosphere prevails in the eponymous thermal park. It covers an area of 650 hectares. It is not surprising that sophisticated French often compare Vittel to a giant open-air work of art.
The thermal park has everything for comprehensive wellness. Its hallmark is unique spa programs for comfortably losing excess weight.
The water is renowned for its unique ability to quickly relax the body and help it cope with the consequences of stress. Here (as in neighboring resorts), even Eastern gymnastics is practiced for those who wish to combine European classical medical water treatment traditions with exercises to increase energy levels.
The list of indications for treatment in Vittel is quite extensive. It includes rheumatism symptoms, urinary system diseases, gastrointestinal pathologies, and much more. The thermal park also practices treatment with aromatic teas made from healing water and various options for comfortable relaxation in special rooms with orthopedic furniture.
Cambo-les-Bains
The musical name of the charming village-town used to have nothing to do with peace and tranquility. There was a powerful fortress here. It was here that the warlike Basques guarded the entrance to the gorge. They literally came into this world and left it with weapons in their hands. Naturally, no one outside knew about the existence of healing water here.
Later, the village began to attract the attention of famous creative personalities, including the great actress Sarah Bernhardt. It is here that the Edmond Rostand villa-museum is located today. The writer came here to save his health and managed to live in the Basque Country for 15 years, contrary to the gloomy predictions of skeptical doctors. He was predicted to live no more than six months.
The local mineral thermal springs, combined with the healing air, positively affect the condition of the respiratory organs. In the village-town, you can often see travelers who come specifically for treating musculoskeletal issues and weight loss.
It is noteworthy that cosmetic procedures are also offered here at lower prices than at neighboring resorts, which serves as additional promotion for the tourist spot.
The local thermal station (with a large pool of healing water), a luxurious park (featuring camellias, hydrangeas, maples), and a hotel for patients in the village-town are all within walking distance. All these are historical buildings.
And next to Cambo-les-Bains is a sacred landmark that the Basques compare to soul healing. And it is not a Christian temple but the Roland Gorge! Shortly after visiting this place, Roland was killed in an unequal battle with the Saracens. And before that, the knight tried to split a rock with his sword (or spear).
From the perspective of non-Basques, this is a very sad story. Roland’s fiancée, upon learning of his death, died immediately. However, according to the Basques, contemplating the gorge cures fears and cleanses the soul.
Châtel-Guyon
This town-commune is best suited for fans of quiet relaxation. It is perfect for travelers with old-fashioned views who are in no hurry and simply enjoy life.
Today, it is hard to imagine, but there used to be constant military actions here. On the hill (called Golgotha), there was a fortified bastion. People began to settle next to the fortification to feel relatively safe.
This is a very atypical history for the region. Usually, resort settlements in this area arose near healing springs. But here, everything began with a hill with a rather gloomy name, where today, in a temple (built 800 years later than the bastion), you can see a huge fresco on the theme of the Apocalypse.
Healing springs in Châtel-Guyon were discovered relatively recently. For a long time, locals used the water to irrigate vineyards and didn’t even suspect its unique properties. Later, they built a bath district next to the springs. It quickly gained popularity, and even monarchs came here to bathe.
The local water excellently treats joint pathologies (including rheumatism) and gastrointestinal diseases. Yoga and Nordic walking studios and centers are actively developing in the area. Hiking on mountain bikes, fishing competitions, and sports orientation events are also popular here.
The village has a public pool with healing water, but access is not year-round, only from May to September. Other highlights of the resort include antique fairs, farmer markets, book festivals, and jazz festivals.
Aix-les-Bains
This balneological resort can be briefly described as resembling a giant bath. Its districts are surrounded by water bodies on all sides. The healing properties of the local water were well known even to the ancient Romans.
However, Aix-les-Bains owes much of its popularity to the weak-willed last representative of the Welf royal dynasty. King Rudolf the Lazy of Burgundy simply gave this territory to his former wife, and after the change of ownership, the place became popular among European nobility.
The monarch earned his nickname for his very weak character. He was a great lover of luxury, completely unable to handle state administration or the unruly nobility, which despised him. As a result, the thermal springs became part of France.
They turned out to be rich in sulfur, calcium, and other microelements. The water also became a real boon for the region’s economy. It is still used today to treat rheumatism and respiratory diseases. It has proven effective against intoxications and infectious pathologies.
Thanks to its unique springs, the resort became the location for the “Marina d’Adelphia,” “Thermes de Marlioz,” “Les Thermes Nationaux,” and a specialized institute. The “Centre Bien-Etre des Thermes Chevalley” also operates here. The town is also famous for its art museum, where you can see works by Rodin (the collection is considered the second most significant in the country).
Royat
Tourists often confuse it with another place: Royan. The latter is listed among world-class seaside resorts and is famous not for its thermal springs but for its beautiful beaches.
The thermal resort Royat is located in the Auvergne region. Even in ancient Roman times, such brave warriors lived here that Julius Caesar preferred to make peace with them rather than fight.
Royat has experienced many wars throughout its history. The place was known for its robber gangs, which neither royal guards nor bishop’s wardens could handle. However, 200 years ago, a new era began in the region’s history: its healing alkaline-saline iron-arsenic springs attracted wealthy travelers, and the French authorities began to carefully ensure the safety of tourists.
The mild local climate appealed to foreigners, and as a result, the village quickly gained worldwide fame. The thermal station located here also bears the name Royat. Its water is used to treat a wide range of diseases related to metabolic disorders. The resort also practices weight loss programs using healing water.
Royat has four healing warm water springs. Officially, it is believed they were discovered 200 years ago, although this completely contradicts another fact: the properties of the local water are mentioned in the biographies of ancient Roman rulers.
Plombières-les-Bains
This place went down in world culinary history as the birthplace of plombières. The favorite treat of sweet tooths from all countries was invented here. The dessert is made year-round at the resort according to its classic recipe.
This ice cream is made from whole milk, with egg yolks, sugar, and candied fruits soaked in kirsch (a strong cherry spirit). Another hallmark of the thermal resort is its balconies. There are a thousand of them, and each homeowner (or part of the building) has their own, adorned with personalized monograms.
Famous people whose names entered world history loved to stroll through the streets of this amazing place: Empress Josephine, playwright Beaumarchais, philosopher and satirist Voltaire. The famous guests of the resort undoubtedly contributed to its popularity. However, it should not be forgotten that the star personalities were primarily attracted by the hot and cold radon nitrogen water of Plombières-les-Bains, rich in beneficial microelements.
Today, there are 27 healing mineral springs here that help successfully combat gastrointestinal, central nervous system, cardiovascular, and musculoskeletal system diseases. Many historical buildings have been preserved on the resort’s territory, allowing visitors to feel the charming atmosphere of the past.
Saint-Amand-les-Eaux
The royal thermal resort looks quite modest. The monarchy has long been gone in the country, but the place is still called this way because the town owes its development to the Sun King.
The French monarch was one of the first among European colleagues to think of conducting a census of healing springs in the country. During his reign, it was scientifically proven that the water of Saint-Amand-les-Eaux excellently helps with rheumatism and viral diseases.
It destroys pathogenic bacteria and rejuvenates the body. Another important factor is that the resort is surrounded by forests rich in coniferous trees. Resting here fills the body with strength and vigor. The cozy town, where the eponymous thermal station is located, is surrounded by nature reserves on all sides.
A significant advantage of vacationing here is the absence of noisy tourist crowds. Considering that many hotels have authentic historical interiors, wellness becomes a pleasant journey back in time closer to the Gallant Age.
Quiberon
Virtually everyone interested in water therapy methods for treating spinal pathologies has heard about this place. Quiberon is also famous for its air. In this corner of the world, it is special because it quickly relieves fatigue.
Quiberon is also notable for its picturesque views, making air bath procedures particularly delightful. Moreover, the eponymous town-resort is adored by beach vacation enthusiasts.
“Thermes Marins de Quiberon” operates here. This thalassotherapy center is considered one of the best in Europe. It develops and implements unique personalized programs for weight loss and disease prevention.
The center offers a multifunctional outdoor pool. The facility includes baths, beauty salons, saunas, and much more. Notably, local hotels closely collaborate with the center, greatly simplifying the stay for “Thermes Marins de Quiberon” clients.
In these establishments, patients receive specially prepared diet dishes. Also, it should be noted that the local water excellently helps not only with pain in the legs and muscles but also with treating infertility and improving the functioning of various body systems.
Saint-Malo
It should be clarified that this name refers to both the resort town on the Atlantic coast and its most famous thalassotherapy center. According to legends, Saint-Malo once belonged to fairies, who later gifted it to people along with the healing springs.
The resort’s history has been filled with both ups and downs. It did not immediately gain its current status as an international port. Nowadays, museum work is actively developing here. There are many historical monuments, and the number of private museums on various themes is rapidly increasing.
The local thalassotherapy center dates back to the 1960s. Its specialists practice naturopathy programs. Additionally, among the most popular services of “Les Thermes Marins” are seaweed wraps and skin rejuvenation treatments using eco-friendly products.
When you want to soak up the historical atmosphere, you can take a break from the procedures and admire the old castle or walk along the fortress walls. An interesting nuance is that pirate figurines and images are the most popular souvenirs here.
Amélie-les-Bains-Palalda
Famous for its hydrogen sulfide springs and the purest mountain air, not just because it was renamed in honor of a queen over two centuries ago. Experienced travelers advise that if you don’t like noisy tourist crowds, it’s best to avoid visiting on weekends.
Spa centers see a massive influx of visitors on weekends. Yes, there are 60 springs in the commune, but the recreational areas around them are overcrowded on Saturdays and Sundays. The resort’s popularity is further boosted by the training sessions of the French national team athletes, bringing in throngs of fans.
What makes the local water interesting? Legends say it heals joint diseases, musculoskeletal issues, and even can conquer a lack of inspiration. This perfectly explains why world-renowned artists have sought and continue to seek to visit here. The streets, wellness, and entertainment venues always have a pleasant atmosphere.
Indications for treatment include various joint pathologies and respiratory diseases. Additionally, there is a unique historical monument: the Church of St. Quentin. Built over 800 years ago, its halls house various artworks, including paintings by Picasso and sculptures by Maillol.
Barbotan-les-Thermes
France has many resorts that treat rheumatism, and Barbotan-les-Thermes is one of them. Its second name is “Sick Leg,” a nickname coined by French nobles who came here for wellness treatments.
The thermal station is right in the city center. It is surrounded by a magnificent park with exotic plants, including magnolias, lotuses, banana palms, and other flora representatives.
The sanatorium looks ancient but is actually a new building. It was constructed 20 years ago based on the model of a real existing building.
The thermal station is open daily from March to November (except Sundays), but doctor consultations are available year-round. Various temperature healing waters, rich in sulfur, calcium, silicon, and magnesium, are used in treatments. Different types of showers are also practiced for treatment and wellness. Children can use the sanatorium services starting at the age of nine.
Another important aspect is the excellent recreation area with various sports facilities for active sports fans. Here, master classes in piloting planes, horse riding, tennis, and football are offered.
Jonzac
The eponymous thermal springs are located deep underground. Their water has gained immense popularity among natural wellness enthusiasts since the late 1970s.
The temperature of Jonzac water is +62°C. It contains various beneficial microelements, from sodium and potassium to magnesium and ammonium. It is beneficial for the skin, helping to retain moisture and thus prevent wrinkle formation.
The spring originates from a depth of 1,800 meters. Initially, its water was used to treat rheumatism, but today it is also used against venous pathologies.
Jonzac water also has a strong analgesic effect. It tones muscles and strengthens the immune system. Specialists consider it the safest non-drug remedy for chronic fatigue.
These are some of the best thermal resorts in France, each offering unique benefits and treatments for various health conditions. Whether you’re seeking relief from specific ailments or simply looking to relax and rejuvenate, these resorts provide a perfect blend of natural healing and luxurious comfort.