16 Natural Spa Baths Around Australia

From mineral springs to mud baths, these are Australia’s best natural spa baths to put on your weekend bucket list.

There’s nothing quite as calming and comforting as dipping into a nice warm bath. And while you may or may not have your own bath at home, Australia boasts an array of natural spa baths that feel arguably more luxurious and special.

Treat yourself to a relaxing and toasty afternoon at one of these 16 natural spa baths around Australia.

1. Peninsula Hot Springs, Mornington Peninsula, Victoria

This lovely little retreat along the Great Victorian Bathing Trail is the real deal, having been voted ‘Best Luxury Mineral Spa’ in the 2014 World Luxury Hotel Awards. By all accounts, however, Peninsula Hot Springs – found on Victoria’s physically-blessed Mornington Peninsula – is something of a stand-out experience, located on a 17-hectare property offering not one, but 20 different styles of relaxation, including thermal mineral spring pools, an underground sauna, private outdoor baths, cave pools, Turkish steam baths and this verrrrry nice-looking hilltop retreat. Entry from $75 per adult.

2. Daylesford Region, Victoria

This is Australia’s premier destination for springs with seemingly mercurial properties. We like the truly lovely Hepburn Bathhouse , which has been rejuvenating visitors since 1895. Entry from $58 per adult.

3. Bitter Springs, Katherine, NT

The Katherine region is famous for its thermal pools but Bitter Springs , in Elsey National Park, is an area barely touched by man. Snorkel to observe the turtles as you drift with the current in the ethereal teal waters of this palm-fringed waterhole. Free entry.

4. Japanese Bathhouse, Blue Mountains, NSW

This Japanese-inspired bathhouse heats local spring waters for use in its treatments, but this does not detract from the natural experience. The indoor and outdoor hot pools are complemented by herbal steams, massages, facials and a Japanese-style teahouse. $95 per person.

5. Innot Hot Springs, Queensland

Beware – these springs are so hot, rumour has it you can cook a chook in the hottest parts of Nettle Creek! You can burrow into the soft sands of the creek or pull up the caravan at the Innot Springs Leisure and Health Park , where several man-made pools have a regulated temperature. Free at Nettle Creek; from $30 a night at Leisure and Health Park.

A scenic image of Innot Springs in Queensland. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland and Colyn Huber Lovegreen Photography) — The water at Innot Springs is extra hot so be careful not to fall asleep… (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland and Colyn Huber Lovegreen Photography)

6. Dalhousie Springs, SA

Stand on a wooden platform in Witjira National Park on the edge of the Simpson Desert and dive into the 36 degrees of bliss that is the long natural oasis of Dalhousie . The springs here are steeped in Aboriginal history and support unique aquatic life, including the strangely-named Lake Eyre hardy-head fish. Culture, ecology and location make this a must-do natural spa experience. $25.80 per vehicle.

A view from Dalhousie Springs at sunrise. (Image: Cathy Lu) — There’s nothing but relaxation at Dalhousie Springs. (Image: Cathy Lu)

7. Clayton Station, SA

Clayton is a working cattle station at the end of the Birdsville Track, so chances are you’re going to get grubby before you soak. But when you’re sitting in a cattle trough, plonked in a paddock, with fresh-from-the-ground hot artesian water massaging tired muscles and the sunset colouring the sky, you won’t want to be anywhere else. $10 per vehicle.

8. Katherine Hot Springs

The natural hot springs are nestled within the Katherine riverbed, and the spring usually averages around 32 degrees. This temperature makes it a perfect destination all year round, but especially tempting during the cold months. The series of clear pools is framed by native vegetation, and the area is a place to relax, enjoy swimming in the pools, and take a stroll through the scenic walking tracks.

9. Zebedee Thermal Springs, WA

The naturally heated, underground waters of Zebedee Springs converge in multi-tiered rock pools amidst a forest of huge native palms at the Kimberley’s El Questro Station.

Hidden in the Kimberley, Zebedee Springs is nature’s spa at its finest. Warm, crystal-clear pools surrounded by ancient palms and red cliffs = pure magic.

You’ll need to stay at the El Questro Homestead for exclusive use (after 12pm), or else get there early so you can lie back in your own private pool, gaze at the canopy overhead, and listen to the water tumbling through the gorge and unwind in nature’s beauty. From $11-22 per person.

Zebedee Springs, El Questro Wilderness Park. (Image: Tourism Western Australia) — The multi-tiered rocks at Zebedee Springs are a must-see. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

10. Lightning Ridge Bore Baths, NSW

On the edge of this delightfully eccentric town is a popular spot for opal fossickers and visitors alike. A deep circular pool , standing open to an outback sky, is fed by hot waters from the Great Artesian Basin and is typical of similar baths you’ll find in western NSW and Queensland, such as at Burren Junction, Pilliga, Blackall and Bedourie. It is open 24 hours a day.

People enjoying a soak in the Artesian Bore Baths in Lightning Ridge, open 24 hours a day. (Image: Destination NSW) — Lightning Ridge Bore Baths are open 24 hours a day. Night swim anyone? (Image: Destination NSW)

11. Hastings Thermal Springs, Tasmania

Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs is situated in the far south of Tasmania’s beautiful Huon Valley, a 90-minute drive from Hobart. This is an opportunity to immerse yourself in an ancient yet ever-changing environment. The 28-degree thermal swimming pool gathers and circulates natural thermal spring water which is full of rich minerals (so good for your skin!)

Entry is $5 per adult, which includes the use of the thermal springs pool and amenities all day and access to the five-10 minute platypus and 20-minute hot springs forest walks.

Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs in the Huon Valley (Southern Trove) is a 90-minute drive south of Hobart. Formed millions of years ago, the dolomite cave is one of two show caves found in Australia. (Image: Osborne Images) — Hastings Thermal Springs is filled with rich minerals. (Image: Osborne Images)

12. Artesian Mud Baths, Eulo, Queensland

Within a bough-lined enclosure, add this region’s mineral-rich, skin-conditioning mud to hot artesian water and slip into one of the luxury baths. Listen to the gidyea fire crackling nearby as you relax under a velvet canvas of stars at Artesian Mud Baths . Entry is $95 per adult.

A series of four coloured baths sit outside in the Queensland outback town of Eulo. (Image: Artesian Mud Baths) — The colourful baths are synonymous with relaxation. (Image: Artesian Mud Baths)

13. Alba Thermal Springs & Spa, Mornington Peninsula, Victoria

Discover the regenerative forces of nature at Alba Thermal Springs located in the Mornington Peninsula precinct of Fingal. With more than 30 natural pools to explore, from geothermal hot springs to herbal-infused botanical pools, you can unwind surrounded by coastal Moonah woodland. Come evening, you can opt for a night pass to soak up the tranquillity of the sunset or a starry sky while you bathe.

14. Metung Hot Springs, Gippsland, Victoria

Geothermal water was discovered in Gippsland in the 1930s by a company drilling for oil. The legacy is Metung Hot Springs , which has become the region’s premier spot for bathing and relaxation. This clifftop spa is surrounded by lush vegetation and overlooks Lake King, so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the view from one of their iconic bathing barrels or massaging thermal showers.

15. Hot Artesian Bore Baths

The Artesian Baths are a signature feature of the Charlotte Plains Outback Station . Drawing up water from deep beneath the earth, visitors can soak their stresses away in the mineral-infused waters beneath the Outback skies. In the private baths, you can also order a cheese and wine platter to add the ultimate touch of bliss.

Charlotte Plains Artesian Bore Baths — Kick back with a cheese and wine platter at Charlotte Plains Outback Station.

16. Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pools

Enjoy a swim at Yarrangobilly Caves thermal pools , which are hidden deep within a valley and cossetted by abundant nature. After a short hike weaving through towering eucalyptus, you’ll be greeted by a 20-metre-long, 2.5-metre-deep pool fed by a natural spring. Perfect for a post-hike dip!

Additional updates written by Elizabeth Whitehead and Rachael Thompson.

Adventure and refined Luxury combine at the stunning Rangelands Outback Camp.

Iconic Australian red dirt, ancient rocky landscapes and bursts of greenery and wildflowers all make the small town of Winton, and its surrounds, a sight to behold. Escape the ordinary and unwind in the Queensland outback, where ancient landscapes and off-grid luxury await at Rangelands Outback Camp.

cosy seats in Rangelands Outback Camp — Unwind in the ancient outback.

About Rangelands Outback Camp

Unforgettable 360-degree views of this 95-million-year-old land await at Rangelands; bathed in style and positioned on top of a jump-up (or mesa), your tented camp seamlessly blends into its outback setting.

Set on the 53,935-square-kilometre Rangelands Station – a working cattle property – the abundant wildlife are your only neighbours; kangaroos, echidnas, eagles and other birdlife all call Rangelands home.

Bathed in style, your tented camp seamlessly blends into its outback setting. Indulge with carefully curated menus, personalised service and supersized luxury tents that guarantee a private experience. This exclusive camp only has a maximum of 12 guests at a time.

Here, the aim is pampering. From tasty menus to supersized tents with all the creature comforts, to a range of guided tours around the property and beyond.

Guests are transferred from Winton or Longreach by a dedicated Rangelands driver.

aerial shot of Rangelands Outback Camp tent — Soak in 360-degree views.

Rangelands Outback Camp tours

Join small-group tours and enjoy exclusive access to the ancient Rangelands Rifts with your Rangelands hosts. These incredible rock formations were formed by millions of years of erosion, leaving dramatic channels through the rock. Or explore the surrounds with Rangeland’s touring partner, Red Dirt Tours .

Get sunset birds-eye views over dramatic mesa country in a helicopter, from Queensland’s own Three Sisters to Corey’s Range, stopping at the best lookouts along the way.

Get up close and personal with this rugged land on four wheels, with expert drivers and guides leading guests through famous Bladensburg National Park, visiting Gondwana Stars Observatory and more.

The Winton area is famous for its boulder opals (the second-rarest opal in the world, after black opals), and a stop at the mining community of Opalton sheds a fascinating light on the unique fossicking method used to find them.

A trip to dinosaur country is a must, as this is the place that ramped up Australia’s dino contribution after a fossilised footprint was found in 1962; after more exploration, the discovery of 3300 footprints made it clear this was the world’s only evidence of a dinosaur stampede. Those same footprints are still on display today at Lark Quarry Conservation Park , a 90-minute drive from Winton. Also check out Australia’s largest collection of Australian Dinosaur fossils Australian Age of Dinosaurs, just 30 minutes from Winton. Here, join a tour through a working laboratory, dinosaur canyon and more.

A twice-daily transfer into downtown Winton is offered to guests, where they can explore the Royal Outdoor Theatre, opal shops, Waltzing Matilda Centre and more.

tour being led through Rangeland rifts — Have an exclusive adventure through the Rangeland Rifts. (Image: TEQ)

Sleeping in luxury

After a day of exploring, return to your tranquil tent for a blissful open shower and uninterrupted views from your private deck.

Designed to integrate guests into the surrounding nature, each tent feels like its own private haven. While being off-grid in the outback (in fact, each tent is powered by its own solar panels, with the added support of a backup generator), guests can also luxuriate in comfortable amenities like air conditioning, a supremely comfortable king-size bed and stylish designer touches.

Guests can stroll to the open-air Sunset Deck for breathtaking panoramic views, or to the main lounge and dining tent, where books, on-demand coffee and drinks make it the perfect place to relax after a day in the outback.

inside Rangelands Outback Camp bedroom — Enjoy plenty of space inside, and stunning views outside.

Rangelands Outback Camp dining

As the sun starts to dip below the horizon, gather for drinks and canapés on the expansive Sunset Deck, watching the sun drench the landscape in pinks and oranges as it sinks below the horizon.

Later, head to The Mahal lounge area and dining tent where mealtime magic happens. Savour a gourmet meal made fresh by Rangeland’s onsite chef. The meals use local produce to elevate classic outback dishes, and don’t worry, dietary requirements are happily accommodated.

Enjoy an open bar filled with an expansive hand-selected list of wines and premium beers, with wine pairings offered by Rangelands hosts come dinner time.

Discover more and book your luxurious stay at rangelandscamp.com.

16 luxurious natural spa baths around Australia