Nugget & The Travertine Terraces

The best Jacuzzis aren't found in the fanciest hotels or the most exquisite homes, but rather, they were crafted and sustained by nature itself. These hot spring terraces have been around for many years, providing luxurious baths for all visitors and today, they are top tourist destinations around the world.

PAMUKKALE, TURKEY

Literally meaning "cotton castle" in Turkish, Pamukkale is located in the Denizli Province of Southwestern Turkey. Its name was derived from the shimmering, snowy-white limestone surface which were shaped into calcium-rich hot springs. These springs are some of the most beautiful and photogenic in the world and judging by pictures, I can see why. There are 17 hot spring travertine terraces in which bathing is permitted; bathing is allowed - my favourite thing about here. 

Photo credit: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/419749627760761453/

CLIFFSIDE POOLS, MEXICO

The Las Grutas de Tolantongo is a natural spa resort and box canyon found in Hidalgo, Mexico. Being surrounded by volcanic mountains, water is heated through various channels inside the mountains and flows into rivers which naturally cascades into the rock pools below. Enhanced by man-made carvings, the travertine rock pools hang over the cliff side, creating the perfect infinity pools. With the combination of a fantastic view and warm infinity pools, I don't think I'd ever want to leave here.

Photo credit: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/464363411561619187/

HOT SPRINGS OF SATURNIA, ITALY

Is there anywhere in Italy that isn't magical? Saturnia is a small town tucked away in North-central Tuscany, Italy. The presence of thermal bath springs has made this town a popular tourist attraction. The springs were created from two outdoor waterfalls, Cascate del Mulino and Cascate del Gorello. Legend states that the magic spring of warm, sulfurous water was a result of Saturn, the Roman god, sending a thunderbolt  to earth to pacify mankind from war. I'm not sure how well that planned turned out for him, but I love its result of these springs.

Photo credit: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/407083253790792281/

HUANGLONG VALLEY, CHINA

The scenic view of the Huanglong Valley is found in Songpan County, within the Sichuan Province. Calcium carbonate deposits formed terraces of travertine pools which cascades so beautifully in the valley of the forest. These winding yellow pools shimmers as it reflects sunlight and reminded locals of golden scales on a dragon's back. This feature gave Huanglong its name which means "Yellow Dragon". The diverse ecosystem, mountainous landscape and limestone formations have made Huanglong a main tourist attraction of China.

Photo credit: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/370350769336617276/

BADAB-E SURT, IRAN

Located in the Mazandaran Province in Northern Iran, Badab-e Surt comprises of numerous travertine terraces which cascades down the mountainside. The springs were formed from the flowing of mineral-enriched waters which comes from 2 distinctly different springs. The first spring is small and contains yellow, salty tasting water whereas the second is larger, containing orange, sour tasting water due to iron oxide sediments. The combination gives Badab-e Surt its striking mixture of orange, red and yellow colours.

Photo credit: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/45739752441537899/

It's impossible to not fall in love with these natural wonders. Its colours, its formation, its unique beauty leaves no question why these are such popular tourist destinations. Where would I love to go? Turkey and Saturnia. Pamukkale is so pristine and beautiful and anywhere in Italy has to be magical. COMMENT BELOW and share your favourites!
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