With the hot weather, the temptation is often to day trip to the Belgian coast to take in some sun, sand and sea. But so will everyone else.
For those looking to prioritise a calm environment, what are the options? An alternative to consider is a day spa with outdoor facilities, trading sand for serenity, while still getting in some sun and a dip in the water. Here are some alternatives to the coast to consider that may just fit the bill.
Thermae Boetfort
This wellness spa describes itself as having a unique character. Situated on the grounds of the 400-year-old Castle Boetfort, the spa is split into two sections, nude and clothed. Onsite there are nine different saunas, an outdoor swimming pool, jacuzzis and wellness pools.
Credit: Thermae Boetfort
Located in Melsbroek. You'll also find a restaurant, as well as massage and other wellness treatments. Note children are only allowed from the age of six. A day pass will cost you €41.50 and you don't need to reserve ahead, however, groups of five or more do.
Thermes de Spa
The Belgian town of Spa gave its name to the spa concept, that being a body of water with rejuvenating properties. So for those looking to go back to where it all began, Spa is the place. Thermes de Spa is one option which claims to continue the "ancestral know-how". The spa has thermal baths and an indoor pool with views looking out over the town from its hilltop location. Outside there is also a pool and onsite there are saunas, hammams, peat baths and an area for naturists.
Credit: Thermes de Spa / Fabrice Debatty
While you don't have to book ahead it is strongly advised as, if they are busy, you may be turned away. A day visit will cost you €45. This weekend they are open on Saturday only as exceptionally they will be closed on Sunday. Children under 15 are not allowed.
Waer Waters
If you're looking for somewhere to remind you of the scale of Ostende, but in spa size, then Waer Waters might be for you. Set over 12,000 square metres in Groot-Bijgaarden, Waer Waters features practically every option for a dip including clothed and nude zones, jacuzzis, natural swimming ponds, baths, and heated indoor and outdoor pools.
Credit: Waer Waters
If you need a break from all of that, there are saunas, hammams and rest areas as well as an onsite restaurant. The cost for a day starts at €55 but there are also options that include access to a hot/cold buffet as well as the onsite gym. With so much in one place, they really are living up to their promise of "one resort, infinite sensations". However don't worry, despite the scale this isn't a theme park, children under 16 are not allowed. Booking ahead is advised.
Elaisa Energetic Wellness
More wellness centre, than a spa resort, this is the place to come if you wish to be silent and silenced. Set on a lake near Dilsen-Stokkem. Elaisa's dipping options include jacuzzis with "soft and odourless water", indoor and outdoor pools, plunge pools and hot footbaths. This is alongside the usual spa staples of meditation rooms, saunas and steam baths - although these are elevated at Elaisa with live music and other features.
Credit: Elaisa Energetic Wellness
You need to reserve ahead to visit, and the starting price is €65. Children are allowed from 12 years old, but you are expected to keep an eye on them. The wellness centre also has a restaurant and plenty of massage treatments as extras. Note that no swimwear is allowed, except on certain days, one of them being this Sunday (as the third Sunday of the month) the other swimwear weekend day is the second Saturday of every month.
Thermen Katara
"Welcome to a world of relaxation" as long as you are comfortable with no swimwear. Thermen Katara in Belsele seems designed for ultimate relaxation. Focused more on massage treatments and wellness packages, much of what is available is set indoors including 10 very unique saunas to try, as well as an ice cave.
Credit: Thermen Katara
Outside you will find jacuzzis and tubs, as well as a heated outdoor pool. Day visitors are allowed, with a reservation starting at €43.90. Katara also has a restaurant for some post-ice cave eating and children are allowed from the age of 8. Katara promises to monitor the sweatdrops on foreheads, and if it is clearly too hot free ice cream and popsicles are deployed.
