As the weather gets colder, Sydney has entered winter. Do you feel like soaking in hot springs? Today we will share with you a few must-visit hot spring destinations that you shouldn’t miss!
Best Hot Springs to Visit in Sydney
Ryokan Gojyuan
Located in the bustling Balmain area of Sydney, Ryokan Gojyuan is a traditional Japanese inn with two-bedroom accommodations. As soon as you enter the hotel, you’ll be immersed in the ambiance of Japanese culture. Walking through a small corridor, you’ll be greeted by a beautiful Japanese garden and a tranquil pond. From the traditional tatami mats and sliding door designs to a small river flowing through a bamboo-filled courtyard, it instantly transports you to Japan, making you forget that you’re actually in Sydney.
In the morning, you can enjoy a specially prepared Japanese breakfast provided by the hotel. Despite being a guesthouse, all toiletries are provided. The inn also organises hands-on workshops where guests can participate in activities such as making traditional Japanese sweets, crafts, and carving.
Address: 208 Darling St, Balmain NSW 2041
Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool
The Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool is a truly magical hot spring located within Kosciuszko National Park. This natural thermal pool is nourished by hot springs and is a favourite among the locals. The pool is approximately 1 kilometre away from the parking area, so you can easily park your car and head straight for a relaxing soak.
The thermal pool is about 20 meters long and 3 meters deep, maintaining a perfect temperature of 27 degrees Celsius throughout the year. It also features a gentle waterfall from a shallower children’s pool.
Address: Thermal Pool Walk, Yarrangobilly NSW 2720
The Japanese Bath House
The Japanese Bath House in the Blue Mountains is located about a 2-hour drive from Sydney, approximately 35 kilometres from the town of Katoomba in the Blue Mountains region. It offers a Japanese-style hot spring experience that you can enjoy in Australia.
The facility provides both outdoor and indoor hot springs, as well as leisure amenities such as a tea room and cozy wooden cabin accommodations. The open-air hot spring pools here feature a typical Zen garden and tea house-style landscape. You can even experience traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, giving you a true taste of Japan without having to travel there to enjoy the hot spring experience.
Address: 259 Sir Thomas Mitchell Dr, South Bowenfels NSW 2790
Lightning Ridge Bore Baths
Located in the mining town known for its opal production, this natural hot spring bath is open 24 hours a day, and the best part is, it’s completely free! Lightning Ridge is one of the few places in the world where opals are found. The geology is unique, and the water in these baths comes from the artesian basin, which means that once it bubbles up, the temperature reaches around 40 degrees Celsius, and it is rich in minerals and salts. The locals love coming here to enjoy the hot springs, especially after dark.
Address: Pandora St, Lightning Ridge NSW 2834
Other Hot Springs Spots
Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre
The only hot spring resort in New South Wales, located in the town of Moree, known as the Artesian Water Capital of New South Wales, approximately an 8-hour drive from Sydney. The self-flowing thermal springs, rich in minerals, are sourced from the Great Artesian Basin at a depth of 720 meters.
They provide a soothing and rejuvenating experience, helping to alleviate fatigue and relieve stress. There is also a children’s play area, making it suitable for families. The resort offers standalone cabins, camping facilities, and caravan sites, making it an ideal destination for short trips. The Active Hot Pool and Wellness Centre Pool are currently under construction and expected to be completed in July, but other facilities are open for visitors.
Address: 20 Anne St, Moree NSW 2400
Burren Junction Bore Baths
Known as Australia’s most natural hot springs, the Burren Junction Bore Baths are located in the remote outback region and are popular among both locals and tourists. The self-flowing thermal springs, emerging from boreholes, maintain a golden temperature of 41.5 degrees Celsius, which is highly effective in relieving muscle pain and fatigue. Camping is also available here, offering an opportunity to stargaze with friends during the night.
Address: Burren Junction NSW 2386