The Land of Spas

It is over 2000 years since the Romans built the first spa baths in Hungary. Since then the Hungarians have viewed the benefits that the thermal and medicinal waters can give them as a health necessity rather than a luxury. Then, when the Turks occupied Hungary in the 16th century they, apparently, caused a great deal of damage to the country but the bathing culture was not only left untouched but they, in turn, built their own style of baths some of which are still used to this day.

Hungary’s thermal waters lie quite near the surface and daily 350,000 m3 (million cubic meters) of thermal waters break to the surface from natural springs and drilled wells around the country.According to Hungarian Law the definition of thermal water is naturally occurring water above the temperature of 30°C. If water has a concentration of 1,000 mg per litre of dissolved minerals, then it can be called mineral water. If mineral water has been medically proven, by the Ministry of Health, to have healing effects then it can be called medicinal waterBecause of the medical benefits of the spas, if Hungarian people have certain health problems, doctors will send patients (under the National health system or privately) to special spa hospitals and sanatoriums either as outpatients or to stay for a period of time. The waters are said to cure a multitude of disorders including rheumatism chronic degenerative joint and spine diseases, osteoarthritis, joint- inflammations, rehabilitation after bone and joint operations, post-traumatic conditions, lumbago and neuralgia.

But, beware, If you have a health problem and are planning a holiday or a visit to a thermal/mineral health spa it is advisable to consult your doctor first because the potency of the waters can have an adverse effect on some people with conditions such as tuberculosis, malignant tumour, pregnancy, multiple sclerosis or feverish conditions so it is best to check and make sure.

Once you arrive at your destination then many of the spas have their own doctors, naturopaths and therapists in attendance. Their medical appearance may look very formal but don’t be intimidated by it as you will find that they are very friendly and will go out of their way to help you. The whole range of ailments will be catered for and, if you wish, a complete programme of diet, exercise and treatments will be arranged so you get full benefit from your visit. After one week you should notice some positive results but to get the maximum benefit a three week stay is recommended.

Medicinal waters are used mainly for bathing but there are certain waters that are used for drinking cures and they, apparently, have highly effective results.

But, if you are looking to visit a spa resort for relaxation, rest, fun and exercise then there are a multitude of thermal swimming complexes, pools and baths that serve the purpose and enable you to have a fantastic time. There may be treatment pools at the complex but they are usually separated from the public areas.

There are some 400 thermal establishments in 100 different places right across Hungary and in Budapest alone there are some 50 baths that are fed by more than 100 springs and wells. In fact there is virtually no large town in Hungary that is without its own thermal bath. It is becoming Hungary’s main tourist attraction and because the benefits of these spas are being realised all over Europe a holiday at a spa resort is becoming very popular.
You can find a list of some of the main spas at the following web address:

http://www.gotohungary.com/spa/

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