Spa And Wellness: 3 Good Reasons To Engage In Thermal Tourism In Lithuania
Did you know that thermal and wellness tourism is one of the must-see attractions when visiting Lithuania? This Northern European country is an underrated destination for self-care. Yet, it offers high-quality thermal treatments inspired by local traditions. Here are 3 good reasons to engage in thermal tourism in Lithuania.
To get pampered in the local fashion.
Lithuania, a mere 3-hour direct flight from Paris, is a destination that might not always spring to mind, especially for those seeking thermal tourism. Yet, this European country has a deeply rooted tradition in the realm of spas and wellness.
Depending on your preferences, you can indulge in pampering in major Lithuanian cities like Vilnius, the capital, or opt for a wellness retreat amidst the tranquil countryside.
The hub of Lithuanian balneotherapy is in Druskininkai, one of the oldest and most renowned spa towns in the country. Druskininkai boasts one of the largest water parks in Lithuania, with over 20 different saunas.
Whichever option you choose, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of local products such as mineral waters, therapeutic mud, amber, and Lithuanian herbs.
To discover the art of Lithuanian sauna.
In Lithuania, spas and wellness establishments stand out from their European neighbors for their roots in local culture and respect for distinctly Lithuanian traditions.
One of the most emblematic traditions of this country is the Lithuanian sauna art. This hot steam bath has been an integral part of the local culture for centuries.
Unlike other countries, the traditional Lithuanian sauna is humid and not very hot, at about 60°C. To generate steam, water is poured over hot stones placed on a wood burner.
This wellness and beauty ritual typically lasts 4 hours. During this treatment, the body is swept and patted by an experienced sauna master using a bundle of carefully selected twigs. The twigs, called vantos in Lithuanian, help to exfoliate the skin, improve blood circulation, and relax muscles in the same way as a massage.
The beauty rituals offered in Lithuanian saunas exclusively use natural materials such as plants, honey, or amber. The actual sauna session can be complemented by a scrub and aromatherapy treatment or even a clay mask and massage with honey and hemp vegetable oil.
To enjoy the benefits of amber and other natural remedies.
The last of the 3 great reasons to engage in thermal tourism in Lithuania is the opportunity to enjoy a unique and authentic experience inspired by Lithuanian traditions and specialties.
For instance, you can relax in baths enriched with milk, medicinal herbs, beer, or hop flowers... In this country, wellness tourism embodies an authenticity and a connection to nature that is unparalleled in other thermal destinations.
Lithuanian spas have also earned an international reputation for their treatments using white mud or black peat mud, known for their remineralizing and anti-inflammatory properties.
But the most emblematic and original wellness method in the country is undoubtedly the treatments based on Baltic amber. In Lithuania, amber is not only used to make jewelry but also to promote well-being. You can try scrubs and wraps made from amber powder and massages given with amber oil or using bags filled with amber pieces.
Lithuanians attribute to this ancient resin the power to stimulate blood circulation and metabolism, recharge the body with energy, and reduce inflammation and stress. To take advantage of amber's multiple benefits, it is recommended to visit the Mineral Therapy and Amber Center located in the heart of the capital, Vilnius.
