Prepare to be amazed by Croatia’s oldest thermal spa town

by croatiaweek
June 23, 2024
in Travel

(Photo: Private album)

Located around a 50-minute drive from the capital, Zagreb, is one of the most magical destinations in Croatia, which many people, including locals, have yet to discover.

Known for its therapeutic hot springs since Ancient Roman times, when it was called Aquae Iasae, Varaždinske Toplice is the oldest thermal spa in Croatia.

The ancient Iassi tribe first enjoyed the area’s rich resources. Later, the Romans constructed a bath and a town around the thermal spring, naming it Aquae Iasae. After battles, Roman soldiers would relax in the warm, sulfur-rich waters.

(Photo: Private album)

Today, Varaždinske Toplice continues to amaze many, including locals, who are unaware of what a gem is on thee doorstep of the capital.

Here are just a five reasons it should be on your radar.

Ancient Roman ruins

Varaždinske Toplice’s historical significance is highlighted by its ancient Roman ruins. These remnants of Aquae Iasae offer a fascinating insight into the town’s past as a Roman settlement.

(Photo: Private album)

Visitors can explore the Roman ruins of what is the oldest thermal spa in Croatia that served its purpose for four centuries. The pool was built with large stone blocks, with water channeled into the bath. A similar example is found only in the Roman settlement of Aquae Sulis in Bath, England.

(Photo: Private album)

The water here emerges from a depth of nearly 1800 metres, taking up to 30,000 years to reach the surface where its temperature at the source is 58°C.

(Photo: Private album)

Spa tourism began almost 185 years ago with the introduction of regular medical supervision and later, a permanent spa doctor, along with the construction of solid buildings, some of which are still in use today. At the start of the last century, Varaždinske Toplice was among the most prestigious Central European spas.

(Photo: Private album)

The preservation of these ruins allows for a unique cultural experience, connecting modern-day visitors with the legacy of the Roman era.

Aquafest - become a Roman for three days

(Photo: Varaždinske Toplice Tourist Board)

Historical heritage

Steeped in history, Varaždinske Toplice offers visitors a glimpse into its storied past. The town’s two historic churches, one dating back to the 13th century, provide a serene setting for reflection.

(Photo: Private album)

The smaller church is the resting place of Antun Kukuljević, a prominent figure in Croatian education in the 19th century, and father of the renowned Ivan Kukuljević Sakcinski. The town is home to what is considered the oldest known school in the region, established in 1480.

(Photo: Private album)

The current elementary school building, opened in 1980, commemorates over 500 years of educational tradition. A visit to the town museum which is home to a number of interesting artefacts found is also a must.

(Photo: Private album)

Renowned thermal springs and rehabilitation centre

Minerva hotel and wellness complex

The indoor and outdoor pools at Minerva, which has recently been upgraded, offer numerous attractions for visitors. The water park includes features such as a slide, fast river, water mushroom, and whirlpool. Visitors can participate also in a range of various sports and recreational activities available within the complex.

(Photo: Minerva Varaždinske Toplice)

Varaždinske Toplice has been famed for its healing thermal springs for centuries. Today, these springs are integral to the Hospital for Medicinal Rehabilitation “Terme”, a leading facility for spinal cord and neurological injury treatment in Croatia.

The hospital’s expertise in rehabilitation draws patients from across the country and beyond, while the therapeutic waters offer a soothing retreat for anyone looking to relax and rejuvenate.

(Photo: Terme Varazdinske Toplice)

The town’s ongoing investment in healthcare, including plans for a new hospital and upgrades to existing facilities, underscores its commitment to health and wellness tourism.

The newly opened Hotel Bernarda

(Photo: Hotel Bernarda)

One of the latest additions to Varaždinske Toplice is the newly opened 4-star Hotel Bernarda. This modern hotel offers 27 well-appointed rooms and boasts a range of top-notch facilities including Finnish, Turkish, and infrared saunas, a salt room, balneotherapy baths, and both indoor and outdoor pools.

(Photo: Hotel Bernarda)

(Photo: Private album)

(Photo: Hotel Bernarda)

Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s biodynamic restaurant, and an additional 20 accommodation units.

(Photo: Private album)

What sets Hotel Bernarda apart is its comprehensive wellness centre, featuring physical therapy and a Pilates studio, making it the first hotel in Croatia with such an extensive recreational and health offering.

(Photo: Private album)

(Photo: Hotel Bernarda)

Try one of the best pizza’s in Croatia crafted with thermal water

Just 200 metres away from the thermal water spring is Pizzeria Bernarda, where you can try one of the best pizzas in Croatia made using the town’s prized thermal water.

Pizza at Pizzeria Bernarda in Varazdinske Toplice

(Photo: Private album)

Award-winning pizza maestro Mario Presečki incorporates water from the local spring in his dough preparation. Another of the secrets is allowing the dough to rise and ferment for a period of 48 to 96 hours.