Switzerland has captured my heart many times over with the amazing combination of a smooth and relaxing train system, beautiful small towns and most importantly, thermal bath locations that reinvigorate the soul.

There are many to choose from, and it is my delight to highlight some of my favorites, and more to come in Vol 2 of this guide!

What are my criteria for a favorite?

• Stunning location
• Beautiful design & atmosphere
• A thorough variety of sauna & pool temperatures
• Cleanliness
• Great food options, because I need a nice snack when I’m relaxing

On to the list!

Leukerbad – Switzerland’s highest elevation spa town

I had such a lovely time exploring this wonderful town for several days.

Multiple thermal bath complexes operate in the town, but Leukerbad Therme is one of the most accessible and family-friendly options.

Large outdoor pools allow visitors to soak in warm mineral water while alpine peaks tower above. When I visited, the swirling clouds kept the skies dramatic and mesmerizing. During winter, the contrast between the warm pools and snowy surroundings makes the experience especially memorable.

Leukerbad is also a great destination for combining thermal bathing with beautiful hikes. I would rate these hikes as medium effort level. Nothing too arduous, but you will climb just enough to get the heart pumping.

There’s an especially interesting gorge hike that is QUITE daunting for a first timer, as it takes you across steel rope bridges and a floating steel staircase up a waterfall. I recommend, but your heart will be pounding!

Otherwise there are more gentle hikes through the hillsides if that is not your thing.

Location: Leukerbad, Valais
Elevation: 4,629 feet / 1,410 meters
Highlights: Mountain scenery, large thermal pools, gorge hikes, year-round wellness destination

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Termina Therme – A classic alpine spa fed by the historic Tamina Gorge hot springs

Bad Ragaz has been known for its healing thermal waters for centuries. The mineral water used in Tamina Therme originates in the nearby Tamina Gorge, where hot springs were first discovered in the Middle Ages.

Today the spa offers a large indoor and outdoor bathing complex surrounded by mountain scenery. The outdoor pool is especially enjoyable during cooler weather, when warm mineral water contrasts with the crisp alpine air.

The spa includes a range of wellness facilities including saunas, steam rooms, relaxation areas, and treatment rooms.

Bad Ragaz is also home to the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, one of Switzerland’s most famous wellness hotels, making the area ideal for longer spa retreats.

Location: Bad Ragaz, eastern Switzerland
Elevation: 1,640 feet / 500 meters
Highlights: Alpine scenery, thermal mineral pools, traditional spa town

‘Fortyseven’ Thereme Baden –
A striking Brutalist architecture thermal bath overlooking the Limmat River.

I find myself returning to Fortyseven again and again. It just has everything. It’s architecturally interesting with it’s imposing brutalist style looming over the river, Designed by architect Mario Botta. It’s always spotlessly clean. The saunas are beautiful. And it has options for every level of heat you might desire for your wellness. Including an ice cave to cool off, one of my favorite features.

Located in the historic spa town of Baden, Fortyseven is one of Switzerland’s newest thermal bath complexes. Designed by architect Mario Botta, the spa combines contemporary architecture with Baden’s long tradition of thermal bathing.

The mineral-rich thermal water here rises from deep underground springs that have been used since Roman times. Today, visitors can enjoy a series of indoor and outdoor pools overlooking the Limmat River.

One of the highlights is the rooftop thermal pool, where warm water and views of the surrounding hills create a relaxing atmosphere, particularly in the evening.

The spa also includes sauna areas, quiet relaxation spaces, and wellness treatments.

For those of you who appreciate a textile-free (naked sauna) option, there is a section of the facility dedicated to true Finish sauna that is clothing free. This is rare in Switzerland and a nice option.

Location: Baden, near Zurich
Elevation: 1,250 feet, 350 meters
Highlights: Modern architecture, rooftop pool overlooking the river, clothing optional area

Therme Andeer – A quiet alpine thermal bath on the historic route toward Italy.

While exporing the Chur / Flims / Italian Border area, I happened to come across this lovely town of Andeer with the right amounts of charm, pastries and, as you may guess, stunning mineral bath.

Tucked into the alpine village of Andeer in the Graubünden canton, Therme Andeer is one of Switzerland’s quieter thermal bath experiences. Located along the historic transit route toward Italy through the Splügen Pass, the village has been known for its mineral springs for centuries.

Unlike some of Switzerland’s larger spa complexes, Therme Andeer feels intimate and relaxed. The thermal water, naturally warmed to around 34°C, flows into both indoor and outdoor pools surrounded by mountain scenery.

The outdoor pool is particularly lovely, especially in cooler weather when the warm water contrasts with the crisp alpine air. It’s an easy place to settle into a slow rhythm of soaking, sauna, and simply enjoying the peaceful setting.

Therme Andeer also has a sauna area and small wellness facilities, making it a wonderful stop when traveling through the region or exploring nearby valleys.

I highly recommend the nearby pastry shop – Bäckerei Konditorei Cafe Iselin, which I visited twice (once on the way to Italy, once on the way back!). The owners are such a delight and the pastries are some of the best I’ve ever had.

One more recommendation nearby is a short but very impressive Viamala Gorge. It is an easy pull-off with a short tour of a gushing gorge deep below. Note: Steep stairs with no elevator.

Location: Andeer, Graubünden
Elevation: 3,222 feet, 982 meters
Highlights: Quiet atmosphere, historic mineral springs, outdoor alpine pool, small town with friendly locals

Final Thoughts

I’m excited for you to experience Switzerland’s thermal baths, natural healing mineral waters, and the soulful restoration that is brought about with quiet time in these wonderful locations. Whether floating in the rooftop pools of Baden, or enjoying the mountain views in Leukerbad, each location offers a unique interpretation of wellness.