Full of natural wonders, Croatia has been known as a major destination for spa tourism ever since Roman times. As well as popular spots north of Zagreb blessed with healing waters, resorts such as Opatija were developed in the late 1800s for the upper echelons of European society, who would flock to this part of coast for healthy getaways in opulent hotels. In more modern times, upscale contemporary hotels the length of Croatia make use of rare medicinal plants and local muds to offer guests specialised treatments prepared and administered by experts.
Here is a handful of recommended destinations around Croatia, long renowned for their health-giving benefits:
Istarske Toplice
The Romans certainly enjoyed bathing in the healing waters of Istarske Toplice in northern Istria – we know this, as 2,000-year-old remains have been found around the spring here, set beneath a towering rock. The spa draws upon the spring waters of Sveti Stjepan, their unique mineral composition said to be good for everything from chronic rheumatic diseases to post-op rehabilitation. Surrounded by the Motovun forest, guests here can also enjoy a number of outdoor activities in a relaxed bucolic setting.
Krapinske Toplice
Located within Krapina-Zagorje County, easily accessible from Zagreb, the thermal spa of Krapinske Toplice is fed by waters of temperatures around 40ºC, rich in calcium and magnesium content. People have long been coming here seeking relief for everything from spine conditions to heart and vascular diseases. Naturally therapeutic mud is also used in treatments, while the cardiology department is nationally renowned. If you decide on spending a few days here, the region has castles, hiking trails and plenty of cycling routes to explore.
Stubičke Toplice
The waters at Stubičke Toplice, known to its many regular local visitors as Stubaki, reach significantly high temperatures, measured up to 69°C at source. Thanks to their chemical composition and exceptional beneficial properties, they are suitable for the treatment of rheumatism of the joints and muscles, discopathy and post-traumatic conditions. Also on offer at the spa is a cryosauna, exposing the body to extremely low temperatures for positive effects on the skin, the raising of immunity levels and help towards weight loss. Stubaki is located in a region of several spas just the other side of Medvednica from Zagreb. This is in the basin of three rivers, the Sava, the Drava and the Mura, covered with old forests, vineyards and Baroque castles.
Sveti Martin na Muri
When the British and Hungarian company London Budapest drilled for oil around the north of Croatia in 1911, they found none. What they did discover, however, were mineral springs that by 1936 were regularly being used for their healing properties. Bottled mineral water sourced here was sold and distributed elsewhere in Croatia. Today, the springs are part of a resort complex with saunas, spas, pools and healing amenities that particularly appeal to professional and recreational sportsmen and women. They can also look forward to swimming, cycling and playing a few rounds of golf.
Tuheljske Toplice
Around Tuheljske Toplice, a major source of thermal waters and therapeutic mud 40km from Zagreb, stretches the largest bathing area in Croatia, more than 5,000 square metres given over to recreation and relaxation. The complex comprises six outdoor pools and a range of other features, including a wave pool, waterfalls, solariums and saunas. With programmes for couples, families and retirees, Tuheljske Toplice caters to a wider spectrum of spa goers. It is also recommended for those with inflammatory and chronic rheumatic ailments, particularly arthritis and sciatica, respiratory illnesses, gynaecological problems, and post-traumatic and post-operative conditions. Set within picturesque countryside is a number of walks you can take – and all of this is an easy day trip from Zagreb.
Varaždinske Toplice
This small community of just under 2,000 residents is located in the south-east of Varaždin County, near the remains of an ancient Roman settlement. The Bednja river flows through the valley, at the base of the Hrvatsko Zagorje hills. The springs here can reach temperatures of 58°C and contain minerals that have long been considered beneficial for all kinds of ailments. Back in ancient times, this bathing destination went by the name of Aquae Iasae, while the first significant study of the springs was published in 1709. Varaždinske Toplice offer visitors three indoor pools and two outdoor ones, along with access to medical wellness services such as massages, lymphatic drainage and anti-cellulite treatments. Nearby Varaždin features outstanding historical attractions around its Baroque centre.
This article is sponsored by The Croatian National Tourist Board: 'Croatia Full of Life'.
