Kazakhstan is a country that sparks the imagination of plenty of us. It is definitely no obvious destination and only a few tourists have been there and know what the country actually looks like. Those who have had the pleasure to visit Kazakhstan are aware of the country’s rich history and the astonishing nature, ranging from steppes over deserts to mountains with snow-topped mountains which seem to actually touch the sky. Yet Kazakhstan is also an ideal destination for those who like to relax in unearthly bountiful waters. If you want to combine your well-deserved break with a spa experience you will not soon forget, we went looking for the most relaxing thermal resorts Kazakhstan has to offer.
1. Chundja Hot Springs
About 250 kilometers from the country’s biggest metropolis, you will find a village called Chundja. The region surrounding the village has about 140 different hot springs on offer, which are heated by an active volcano. Temperatures can reach up until 50°C, so if you are visiting during the winter months, these are the ideal way to warm up after a long hike in the steppes. The composition of the hot springs differs but a lot of them contain radon, a component which, when used in small amounts like here, can do a lot of good to your health.
2. Rakhman Springs Resort
If you are not a fan of hot temperatures, the Rakhman Springs might be just your cup of tea. The resort is located in the Katon-Karagay National Park near the Rakhmanovsky Lake which is always on the cold side. The low temperatures are due to the location of the lake, its depth and the ice-cold springs which feed it. The Rakhman Springs Resort is the perfect place for all those who suffer from health issues such as digestive problems and skin conditions. Visitors can use a variety of different treatments, ranging from massages over radon baths to mud therapy. Combined with the stunning surroundings it makes for the perfect health-getaway. We promise you will leave more relaxed than ever!
3. Kapal-Arasan Sanatorium Resort Hotel
Ready for some time travel? The Kapal-Arasan Sanatorium, beautifully located on the river Bien, was the first resort to open its doors in Kazakhstan back in 1886. Right now, it is still up and running and you can enjoy a break in the hotel amidst a splendid park with a view on the peak of the Djungarian Alatau. While you are here, it would be almost stupid not to enjoy the benefits of the spring water. At Kapal-Arasan, the water is rich with sulphate-sodium chloride, nitrogen and silica. This may not say you very much, so let’s be a bit clearer. The water is considered as therapeutic for people suffering from rheumatism, metabolism, problems with blood vessels and gynecological diseases. And after spending some time in the water, nothing holds you back from taking a hike in the mountains.
4. Gorelnik Hot Springs
The Gorelnik Hot Springs are definitely a bit different from the other thermal options we have discussed so far. This is in no way a resort – instead, it looks more like a Jacuzzi that has been put in the middle of nowhere for everyone to enjoy. You do not need to pay to get in the tub, you just have to get there and dive in. No wonder locals are totally charmed by this place. The water inside is about 27°C, so you could visit during the summer months and enjoy the relaxing water. But, and this is our favorite option, you could also go hiking during the colder months when the region is covered in snow and enjoy the tub while looking at the marvelous wintery scene around you. It is up to you to decide but we know what we would do…
5. Kara Dala Hot Springs Resort
If you are looking for a resort where you can relax all day long with your family, Kara Dala Hot Springs Resort might be your best option. Next to the thermal pools, you will find a hotel, a café and multiple entertaining options aimed at children on the domain. If you like the idea of thermal water but you do not like to just hang around in it, then Kara Dala is perfect. The pools are so big that you can easily swim around and combine your daily work-out with the benefits of the thermal springs. The water at the resort is pumped up by artesian wells from a depth of 650 meters – quite impressive for the geeks amongst us. The beautiful Ile River is located not far from the resort, which makes it the perfect daytrip when you are staying at Kara Dala.
