The Great Victorian Bathing Trail is a recently established 550-mile route in the Australian state of Victoria that connects numerous hot springs across the state. Drawing inspiration from similar ventures such as Colorado’s Historic Hot Springs Loop and New Zealand’s Thermal Explorer Highway, this trail allows visitors to experience the therapeutic and rejuvenating properties of the region’s geothermal waters. Here are four of the best geothermal waters to try along the new bathing trail:
Hepburn Bathhouse
Hepburn Bathhouse, one of Australia’s oldest mineral baths, is part of a network of over 60 natural springs surrounding the towns of Daylesford and Hepburn Springs. These natural springs offer a source of therapeutic mineral waters, a result of aquifers buried deep within the Earth and warmed by geothermal heat.
Established in 1895 by Swiss-Italian pioneers during the Victorian gold rush, Hepburn Bathhouse features a rich history and has long been a destination for those seeking relaxation and wellness. The original bathhouse comprises two bathing areas, but visitors now have access to an upgraded experience in the Sanctuary.
The Sanctuary at Hepburn Bathhouse offers guests an elevated spa experience that includes salt and magnesium soaks, hammams, and refreshing cool plunges. It also features an open-air pool, nestled alongside Spring Creek. Here, visitors can enjoy the mineral-rich waters while surrounded by the tranquil sounds of native birdlife.
The combination of natural beauty, history, and spa treatments makes Hepburn Bathhouse a sought-after destination for those looking to unwind and experience the restorative properties of the region’s geothermal waters.
Peninsula Hot Springs
«Thermal bathing is a perfect accompaniment to any activity,» says Charles Davidson, co-founder of Peninsula Hot Springs, but at this sprawling 42-acre property, bathing is the main activity. The resort is nestled beside the Tootgarook wetlands, an area that was once a favored hunting spot of the Indigenous Bunurong people.
Guests at Peninsula Hot Springs can indulge in a range of outdoor bathing experiences, from jacuzzis and mineral-rich subterranean pools to a «Fire and Ice» experience that involves a sauna followed by a cool dip and a freezing plunge. The property also features a bathing gully, hilltop tubs, and a warm pool located next to a natural watering hole reserved for wildlife.
One of the highlights of Peninsula Hot Springs is the Spa Dreaming Centre, which offers overnight guests the opportunity to soak in moonlit hot tubs and pools for a truly magical experience. The peaceful atmosphere is enhanced by the sound of croaking frogs, a nod to the Indigenous Bunurong word «tootgarooks.» Earplugs are provided to ensure guests can fully relax and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the surroundings.
Alba Thermal Springs
The 37-acre plot of land now known as Alba Thermal Springs was once an area teeming with blackberry bushes, rabbits, and land in poor condition, according to Kadi Morrison, director of sales and marketing at Alba Thermal Springs. However, meticulous restoration efforts have transformed the landscape, replanting indigenous flora such as sheoaks, pine-cushion hakeas, and banksias.
Today, visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences at Alba Thermal Springs, including 22 geothermal and herb-infused pools that offer relaxation and rejuvenation. The pools are set amid a lush natural setting where guests can catch glimpses of native wildlife such as kangaroos, echidnas, and wedge-tailed eagles soaring above.
The main building features a rooftop with private open-air pools and enclosed baths, each infused with nutrient-rich salts known for their restorative properties in alleviating cramps, pain, and joint stiffness. These therapeutic baths provide a tranquil retreat where guests can unwind while taking in the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Metung Hot Springs
Metung Hot Springs is a relatively new addition to Victoria’s geothermal offerings, opening in late 2022 thanks to Charles Davidson of Peninsula Hot Springs. The resort is located near the Gippsland Lakes—a vast network of inland lagoons, lakes, and islands—where miners a century ago drilling for oil stumbled upon a hot spring instead.
After the closure of the original baths in the 1990s, Metung Hot Springs breathes new life into the region by providing an array of relaxing and rejuvenating experiences. Visitors can take in the therapeutic waters in hilltop pools, geothermal showers, and outdoor bathing barrels. The serene setting allows guests to soak up views of the surrounding natural beauty while enjoying the health benefits of the mineral-rich waters.
For those staying overnight in the glamping accommodations, Metung Hot Springs offers the additional treat of private moonlit soaks in individual bathing barrels. This peaceful experience allows guests to relax under the stars in their own personal hot spring retreat, making for an unforgettable stay in this revitalized location.