Borovets: Hot Thermal Springs Visit with Hotel Transfer

If you’re heading to Bulgaria’s famous ski resort of Borovets and looking for a way to unwind after a day on the slopes, the Hot Thermal Springs Visit with Hotel Transfer might just be what you need. This tour takes you a bit off the beaten path to the charming town of Sapareva Banya, home to the hottest geothermal spring in continental Europe — a relaxing treat that promises both comfort and a touch of adventure.

What I like about this experience is the chance to enjoy soothing thermal pools in a less crowded setting and to get a taste of Bulgaria’s natural geothermal wonders. Plus, the scenic drive through the Bulgarian countryside makes the trip feel special. However, it’s worth noting that if you’re expecting a luxurious spa experience, this tour is more about the pools and natural springs — extras like massages or treatments are not included.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a quick, hassle-free way to relax after snowboarding or skiing, or for those curious about Bulgaria’s unique geothermal activity. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in natural springs rather than formal spa resorts.

Key Points

• Unwind after skiing at the thermal baths of Sapareva Banya, boasting the hottest springs in Europe.
• Enjoy a scenic 40-minute drive through Bulgaria’s beautiful countryside, away from the crowds of Borovets.
• Visit the only geyser on the Balkan Peninsula — a unique natural feature.
• Included transportation and entrance fees make this a convenient and straightforward experience.
• No included food or spa treatments, so plan accordingly if you want a full-day relaxation.
• Suitable for anyone looking for a relaxing break, with flexible booking and cancellation options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Tour

If you’re in Borovets and craving some relaxation that isn’t on the ski slopes, this tour offers a straightforward way to experience Bulgaria’s geothermal magic. The pickup is convenient — your English-speaking driver will collect you from your hotel or preferred location, making the start of your trip smooth and stress-free.

The drive to Sapareva Banya is quite pleasant, lasting about 40 minutes, allowing you to admire the lush Bulgarian countryside. Once you arrive, you’ll find a variety of outdoor and indoor pools where the water temperature can reach a remarkable 103°C — the hottest thermal spring in continental Europe. That’s hot enough that you really want to be careful with the immersion times, but it’s also a fantastic way to relax muscles sore from ski or snowboard days.

The pools are the main draw, and you’ll find them quite a bit less crowded than some of the larger spa resorts. There’s a mix of outdoor and indoor options, with some pools featuring specific features like climbing walls (which the kids seemed to enjoy, according to reviews). One reviewer even noted, “The warm water was really nice to be in. Kids enjoyed the climbing wall section,” adding that it’s a good choice for families or groups traveling with children.

Entry fees are included in the tour price, which is a plus. However, some travelers have remarked that additional treatments or massages aren’t included, and they might need to be paid for separately if you’re after a full spa experience. Also, since the pools are natural springs, the water’s mineral content contributes to the soothing effects, but it’s worth mentioning that the facilities are more basic compared to high-end resorts.

If you’re wondering about the value, at around four hours long, this tour provides a nice balance of travel and relaxation. The price may seem modest, but compared to the cost of booking spa treatments separately, it’s a good deal — especially since transportation and entry are covered.

From reviews, it’s clear that people appreciate the uniqueness of soaking in such hot springs, often citing how relaxing the experience is after a day of outdoor activities. One visitor mentioned, “The warm water was really nice to be in,” while noting that the experience is simple but effective.

What to Expect on the Day

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel in Borovets or Samokov, where your English-speaking driver will be waiting. You’ll then head out into the Bulgarian countryside, enjoying the peaceful scenery during the short 40-minute drive.

Once you arrive in Sapareva Banya, you’ll have time to explore the thermal baths. The pools vary in size and temperature, with some outdoor options offering a scenic backdrop. Depending on the time of year, you might also enjoy the fresh mountain air while soaking — an experience that’s quite different from typical spa visits.

You might want to bring your own towel, as amenities for towels and robes aren’t specified, and plan to spend your time relaxing rather than enjoying extensive treatments. Some pools are indoors, which is handy if the weather isn’t ideal. Kids seem to enjoy the climbing wall sections, and the pools are well-suited for families, although the main focus is on thermal relaxation rather than entertainment.

After your soak, your driver will take you back to your hotel, completing the loop in a seamless and comfortable manner.

The Experience in Perspective

While this tour is fundamentally about relaxing in Bulgaria’s geothermal springs, it’s also a peek into the country’s natural gifts. The heat source, reaching 103°C, is a testament to the geological activity beneath Bulgaria’s surface — something that’s pretty fascinating to think about as you soak.

The simplicity of the pools and the natural setting can be surprisingly calming, especially if you’re tired after a day on the slopes. And with the included entrance fee, it’s a straightforward way to add a relaxing element to your ski trip without much fuss.

Keep in mind that this isn’t a luxury spa experience. The pools are functional and enjoyable but don’t expect a spa with plush amenities or massages included. If your main goal is pure relaxation in natural hot water, you’ll find this quite satisfying.

Who Will Get the Most Out of This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a quick, authentic thermal bath experience without the added expense of full spa treatments. It’s perfect if you want to unwind in natural mineral waters amid a scenic setting. Families with children will appreciate the kid-friendly features like the climbing wall, and those who simply want to escape the busy ski resort for a few hours will enjoy the quiet, natural environment.

That said, if you’re after a luxurious spa environment or extensive wellness treatments, you might find this experience a little basic. But for genuine relaxation and a taste of Bulgaria’s geothermal wonders, it hits the right spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, your driver will pick you up from your hotel or preferred location in Borovets or Samokov and drop you back after the visit.

How long is the drive to Sapareva Banya?
The drive lasts approximately 40 minutes, providing a scenic view of the Bulgarian countryside.

What is the main attraction at the thermal springs?
The highlight is the hot spring with a temperature of 103°C, the hottest geothermal spring in continental Europe.

Are there indoor and outdoor pools?
Yes, you’ll find both outdoor and indoor pools, allowing for flexibility depending on the weather.

What’s included in the tour price?
Pickup and drop-off, all transportation, entrance fees for the thermal baths, and local taxes are included.

Are massages or other spa treatments available?
No, treatments like massages are not included and are not part of the package. You might find these are offered on-site at additional cost.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, especially since some pools have features like climbing walls that kids can enjoy. It’s a family-friendly option for a relaxing day.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, relaxing way to end a day of skiing in Borovets, the Hot Thermal Springs Visit with Hotel Transfer offers a mix of natural beauty, comfort, and convenience. It’s not overly fancy, but sometimes that’s exactly what makes an experience memorable — soaking in mineral-rich waters with the mountain scenery in view, all with minimal fuss and maximum relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here: