The most beautiful cold water thermal baths

"Cold water spa" is not an official technical term, but a descriptive term for spas that use natural, mineralised spring water that remains cool and is not heated to classic spa temperatures. In contrast to classic thermal baths with warm thermal water (at least approx. 20 °C) and spa infrastructure, the focus here is on refreshment on hot days - more summer freshness than feel-good warmth. Spas such as the Bad Vöslau thermal baths or the Fischau thermal baths are exactly at this temperature limit at around 19-21 °C: they use natural, mineral-rich spring water and are often called "thermal baths", but are not typical "warm" spas.

In addition to the cold-water thermal baths mentioned above, in many regions you will find smaller natural and river bathing areas as well as pond access points or simple outdoor pools where cool water and plenty of greenery take centre stage - ideal for anyone looking for simple, natural bathing days.

The cold water baths are ideal for a day of swimming without a car. To get to the Bad Vöslau thermal bath s, take the train to Bad Vöslau and walk through the town to the baths in just a few minutes. For the Fischau thermal bath s, take the train to Bad Fischau-Brunn and walk from the station to the historic baths in about ten minutes. This makes it easy to combine a summer holiday, cold water and public transport.

For people who have trouble tolerating heat, want to gently stimulate their circulation or consciously "cool down". Anyone who appreciates nostalgic spa culture, architecture and relaxed bathing days will feel right at home in Bad Vöslau or Bad Fischau.

Both pools are operated seasonally as summer pools. Specific seasonal times and opening days vary depending on the year - it is best to check the current information on the respective websites before your visit.

Yes, in Lower Austria you will find several beautiful places where you can combine Kneipp therapy with walks or hikes - ideal for nature-loving guests:

• Waldviertel - Gabrielental near Weitra: freely accessible Kneipp facility with barefoot path (approx. 18 stations) on the Gabrielental-Reinprechts-Brühl-Gabrielental circular route (No. 31). Weitra itself is the oldest brewing town in Austria with an old town centre and brewing tradition worth seeing.
• Waldviertel - Kneipp circular trail no. 70, Waldenstein: circular trail through all the villages in the Kneipp community of Waldenstein. At the sports and cultural centre there is a graduation facility, water treading pool, arm bath in the granite trough, barefoot course and swimming pond - a complete Kneipp course in the countryside.
• Waldviertel - Kneipp-Aktiv-Thayabad Drosendorf: Around Drosendorf-Zissersdorf there are well-marked paths and long-distance hiking trails (e.g. Thayatalweg), which can be combined with a visit to the Kneipp centre. The historic walled town of Drosendorf also invites you to take a stroll.
• Vienna Alps - "Water of Life" theme trail Mönichkirchen: An easy, approximately 2.7 km long themed trail to the Mönichkirchner Schwaig with Kneipp & emotional footpath, stations on the element of water and viewing points.

These Kneipp areas complement the thermal baths and cold water pools and offer free or very inexpensive opportunities to combine cold water, exercise and nature experiences.

Kneipp therapy is a traditional form of hydrotherapy. Alternating stimuli of cold water, exercise and fresh air can stimulate the circulation and immune system and sharpen the body's awareness. If you have any health restrictions, it is best to clarify the type and duration of the treatments with a doctor beforehand.