Coming from the depths of the earth, thermal water draws its benefits from the rock it springs from. Thanks to the richness of its volcanic soil, Auvergne contains a variety of sources to treat many conditions. Whether taking the water for several weeks or in quick recovery of a few days, visitors succumb to the powers of its waters and the charm of its spas.
All-in-one in Châtel-Guyon
Beginning in 2020, the Thermes Henry de Châtel-Guyon will give way to an all-in-one spa. Called Aïga Resort, the site will consist of a classic spa, a thermal spa, a 4-star residence, a restaurant and a research and training center. This European center for digestive care provides treatments based on thermal waters particularly rich in magnesium.
Time travel in Bourbon-l'Archambault
The thermal virtues of this resort have been recognized since antiquity. Built at the end of the 19th century, the thermal baths, classified as historical monuments, are a perfect setting to receive care with their exotic earthenware, under their carved wooden ceilings and their frescoes. Take advantage of this stay to discover the medieval castle, the historical squares and the old buildings that form the heart of the city.
Spring water and Art Deco in Vichy
With its two baths, its powerful energy sources and its medical thermal spa, the city of Vichy is the spa resort par excellence. Visitors come here to treat digestive and rheumatological pathologies. As for the Vichy Célestins Thermal Spa, the different "health-fitness-form" stays are designed to fight stress or to inspire a "digital detox." Another attraction is a stroll through the city rich in Art Deco heritage, with a mandatory passage in the Hall of Sources, located in the park of the same name, for a tasting—not of wine or cognac, but of spring water!
Roman heritage in Royat-Chamalières
Gustave Corot, the Goncourt brothers or Stéphane Mallarmé, have all profited from France's Roman heritage by visiting baths of Royat, erected on the model of the basilica of the Roman emperor Constantine. With four springs, the resort is renowned for relieving pain. Visitors enjoy the benefits of water under the wooden cupola of the Royatonic thermal spa, which will be the subject of expansion this year.
High temperatures in Chaudes-Aigues
The only spa in Cantal is also the hottest in Europe, with water coming out of the ground at 82°C (1796 °F). In addition to traditional treatments, the Caleden Center offers fitness stays, more active treatments and well-being treatments in its spa. In parallel, visitors can discover Cantal and its natural sites, without forgetting to help themselves to a gourmet sample at table of chef Serge Vieira, 2 Michelin stars, in Chaudes-Aigues.
Nature bath in Châteauneuf-les-Bains
The thermal baths of Châteauneuf-les-Bains are a haven of calm in the heart of nature. In addition to the classic 18-day treatment, the spa offers a weekly format, combining hydrotherapy and physiotherapy. On the first floor of the building (renovated in 2015), lie the well-being facilities of Espace Sioule. Special mention for the rooftop jacuzzis that offer a breathtaking view of the river.
Total relaxation in Neris-les-Bains
Exit the stress! In Néris-les-Bains, water rich in magnesium and lithium is said to heal diseases of the nervous system. If medical treatments of lasting 18 days interest you, you can treat pathologies of a psychosomatic or neurological nature here, or you can enjoy a health and prevention stay to relieve stress or restore sleep. In addition to care, complementary activities such as sophrology, shiatsu, or even mantra singing are offered to promote the relaxation of body and mind.
A breath of fresh air at La Bourboule
Here, the mountain air is valued above all. And it must be said that in the heart of the Massif du Sancy, at 880 m (2887 ft) above sea level, the air tastes fine! In addition to its privileged geographical location, this Belle Epoque-style resort boasts water that strengthens the immune system. Take advantage of its virtues under the neo-Byzantine dome of the Great Baths, before catching some fresh air in the landscaped park of 12 hectares (30 acres), the green lung of the city.
New heights at Mont-Dore
Do not be fooled by its austere lava stone facade—this spa is like a geode. Once you cross the threshold of the thermal baths of Mont-Dore, you're overwhelmed by the paintings, colorful frescoes and cupolas of this monument to Byzantine, Roman and Art Deco influences. In this hotspot, classified as a historical monument, the respiratory tract and rheumatoid conditions are treated with waters emanating from a volcanic lava vein. The water is supplemented with the fresh air of this mountain resort—perched at 1,050 m (3444.882 ft) in altitude—in the heart of the Sancy mountain.
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By Constance Dive
Head of section for France.fr
