Six of South Africa’s top hot springs to visit in winter

Here are six of South Africa’s top hot springs to visit for a wintertime warm-up.

Record rains have battered the Western Cape in July, and now the leftover winter chill feels intent on staying. So, we’ve rounded up South Africa’s best hot springs around the country to help soothe away winter’s dastardly chill without you having to stay indoors …

SOUTH AFRICA’S BEST HOT SPRINGS

The benefits of soaking in a steaming mineral bath heated by the Earth’s natural warmth has long been documented. Herodotus even theorised that warm African waters South of the equator are actually the source of eternal life. As a result, here are South Africa’s best hot springs to visit, no matter what province you reside in …

THE BATHS

Nestled in the Cederberg Mountains of Citrusdal, a rich history forms the backbone of this establishment. From local folklore of the large ox called Kolberg, who kicked open the spring with his giant hoof. To the San people who used the natural warm waters and left rock art in the caves all around the area. This is one of South Africa’s best hot springs because of its geothermal water of 43 degrees Celsius at source. This is directed towards the pools and self-accommodation units with no TV (hoorah). Besides the hot pools, there are also rock pools, tennis courts, playgrounds for kids, a restaurant and curio shop. Day visits need prior arrangement. Click HERE for more information.

TSHIPISE FOREVER RESORT

A list of South Africa’s best hot springs cannot go without a mention of Tshipise Forever Resort in Limpopo. Situated in the heart of the Lowveld, the bush is dotted with baobabs, Mopani, red bush and jakkalsbessietrees. The natural hot pool resort finds its name from the Tshipise Koppie (pictured above) that watches over it. Tshipise means ‘something warm’. And because the water reaches the upper 40-degree Celsius range at the source, it certainly is that. Also a stone’s throw away from the Kruger National Park, it offers plenty of outdoor activities from horse riding, nature trails and bush drives. Regrettably, no day visitors. Click HERE to book.

WARMWATERBERG SPA

Situated near Barrydale on the R62, this sixth-generation, 135-year-old spa is situated in the Klein Karoo. The warm water found naturally on the site was first referenced in 1778 and is 44 degrees Celsius at the source. It is untreated and pumped into a natural outdoor pool and decadent indoor private roman baths. Accommodation ranges from the original Sanatorium main house, bath house, cabins, caravans and camping facilities. Everything is self-service though the restaurant with a bar and off-sales service. Warmwaterberg is also home to a succulent plant kingdom that puts on an annual show every springtime. Short walks and some Springbok, Duiker and Steenbok around the property. Click HERE for more information.

WARMBATHS FOREVER RESORT

Warmbaths in Bela-Bela (the town was formerly known as Warmbaths) is an absolute institution. It’s still one of South Africa’s best hot springs because of the hot bed of geothermal water that boils away beneath the town. Bela-Bela actually translates roughly to ‘boiling water’ in Tswana. And at the source it’s a toasty 49 degrees Celsius. Just perfect for easing away the cold winter chill. Also try out the Hydro & Spa, which will transform you into a new, fresh-faced human. Accommodation varies from hotel to self-catering and bush lodges. Day visitors are welcome, too. Click HERE for more details.

GOODERSON NATAL SPA HOT SPRINGS

Not that KwaZulu-Natal can rightfully complain about cold winters, but there is a wonderful natural hot spring in Paulpietersburg. Situated in the heart of the lush KZN bushveld, it’s dotted with ancient granite boulders. It boasts magnificent waters of between 36-45 degree Celsius. According to legend, the springs are a by-product of a large black snake that lives in an underwater cave. Accommodation ranges from luxurious to self-catering. And if the guilt of inactivity gets too much, there is a 22 km mountain bike trail, a BMX track and paintball arena. Click HERE to book your spot.

SHU-SHU HOT SPRINGS

Situated in Eshowe, all South Africans know shu-shu signifies something that’s very hot. Taken from Nguni language, this location is possibly the most informal of South Africa’s best hot springs. And certainly its most reclusive. Every winter the Thugela River levels subside to reveal an island that bubbles hot water into natural pools. These are only accessible through an unofficial campsite. Hard-core campers need only apply as it is ‘bring and braai’ in the strictest sense. Including bringing your own spade and toilet paper, if you catch out drift. Expect to pay a minimal surcharge to the local tribe for access. Click HERE for more information on this prehistoric masterpiece.