Hungary’s terraced pools are one of the most evocative wonders, less than 133 km from Budapest. They are in the Laskó stream valley between the Mátra and Bükk ranges. The site has been a favorite destination for those seeking natural hot springs.
These terraced pools are situated in the municipality of Egerszalók in the county of Heves. Calcium, sodium, magnesium, and sulfur are abundant in Egerszalók’s therapeutic waters. Calcium reduces inflammation, and sulfur is an important component of cartilage. Steaming springs supply the water that cascades down through white terraces surrounded by lush vegetation.
Hungary’s thermal springs are mind-blowingly beautiful. In fact, there are only three other places in the world where this natural phenomenon occurs: Pamukkale in Turkey, Badab-e-Surt in Iran, and Mammoth Hot Springs in Yellowstone National Park. The constant flow of water over time has produced approximately 1200 square meters of white terraced pools. Egerszalók is a small village located eight kilometers south of Eger. A thermal bath is located 2 kilometers from the village.
Their source is 410 meters deep, and their temperature is 65–68 degrees. Due to the fact that hot water has a higher concentration of dissolved salts, cooling water becomes saturated with salts, and the excess salt is separated from it. Calcite and aragonite separate out of the water as the lime content is dissolved. It has become one of the most popular spas among joint and rheumatic disease patients. This is because it was discovered in 1961 during excavations for oil and natural gas.
Historically and geographically, Egerszalók has been a favorite spa in Hungary. The Hungarian lifestyle has been characterized by wellness and spa culture for hundreds of years. Modern spa establishments were born in 2007, equipped with covered tubs, hydro-massage pools, saunas, and wellness spaces. Relaxation and pampering are the perfect ingredients for finding the right energy at this natural oasis.
Make sure to visit this natural paradise if you are in Budapest. Take advantage of the daily tours that leave for Egerszalók Terme at 8 a.m. and return at 5 p.m. Moreover, the bus station in Eger has direct service every half hour. During winter, the direct road from Eger can be dangerous. To avoid snow and ice, take Route 25, then turn right towards Demjén.
Nearby attractions:
Salt Hill: There is a thermal spring bubbling up from 410 meters on Salt Hill in Egerszalók’s southern part. This is the village’s most notable attraction. Water temperatures range from 65°C to 68°C, and the water is almost 27,000 years old. There are unique limestone terraces in Europe formed by the water flowing down the hillside.
Stone caves: The local government is in charge of protecting the stone caves on Sáfrány Street. A local history and culture exhibition is available to visitors. The public can visit various showrooms: folk rooms, handicraft rooms, wine rooms, etc.
