Winter doesn’t have to mean staying indoors. Across South Africa, naturally heated mineral springs offer the perfect excuse to embrace the colder months, whether you’re soaking beneath mountain peaks, unwinding after a long hike or planning a cosy weekend away.
Image of hot spring used for illustrative purposes/Tayawee Supan/Unsplash
Fed by underground geothermal activity, these thermal waters have been drawing travellers for generations. Many are believed to be rich in minerals, while others simply offer the irresistible pleasure of sinking into warm water as crisp winter air surrounds you. Better still, most hot springs are found in regions packed with hiking trails, wine farms, wildlife and charming small towns, making them ideal additions to a winter road trip.
Here are some of South Africa’s best places to warm up this winter.
The Baths, Citrusdal
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Hidden in the foothills of the Cederberg Mountains, The Baths is one of the Western Cape’s most beloved hot spring destinations. Natural mineral water flows into a collection of indoor and outdoor pools, with temperatures ranging from pleasantly warm to piping hot.
Winter is particularly magical here. Steam rises from the pools on chilly mornings, while the surrounding mountains create a peaceful backdrop for a relaxing escape.
Beyond the water, visitors can spend their days hiking, mountain biking or exploring the rugged landscapes of the Cederberg before returning for an evening soak beneath the stars.
Caledon Hot Springs
The mineral-rich waters of Caledon have attracted visitors since the early 1700s, making them among South Africa’s oldest spa destinations.
Situated in the heart of the Overberg, the hot springs are an easy weekend getaway from Cape Town. Alongside naturally heated pools, visitors can enjoy spa treatments, heated indoor facilities and scenic views across rolling farmland.
Its location also makes it easy to combine a wellness break with visits to nearby Greyton, Stanford or Hermanus.
Avalon Springs, Montagu
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Nestled along the famous Route 62, Avalon Springs combines mountain scenery with naturally heated mineral pools that remain inviting throughout winter.
Families appreciate the range of pool temperatures, while couples often choose the resort for romantic weekends surrounded by the Langeberg Mountains.
Montagu itself is worth exploring, with wine estates, hiking trails, local cafés and historic Cape architecture all adding to the experience.
Warmwaterberg Spa, Barrydale
For travellers looking to slow down, Warmwaterberg Spa offers a quieter alternative to larger resorts.
Located between Barrydale and Ladismith on Route 62, the farm-style retreat features natural thermal pools surrounded by wide-open Karoo landscapes. There is little pressure to stick to an itinerary here. Guests spend their days reading beside the pools, taking leisurely walks or simply enjoying the silence.
It’s an ideal destination for anyone craving a digital detox and a slower pace of travel.
Bela-Bela
Formerly known as Warmbaths, Bela-Bela has long been synonymous with South African hot spring holidays.
Located just a couple of hours from Johannesburg and Pretoria, the Limpopo town remains one of the country’s most accessible thermal destinations. The naturally warm mineral water has attracted visitors for more than a century, while modern resorts cater to families, couples and wellness travellers alike.
Its position in the Waterberg also makes Bela-Bela an excellent base for combining a spa weekend with a Big Five safari.
Badplaas
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Surrounded by rolling hills in Mpumalanga, Badplaas has earned a loyal following thanks to its naturally heated mineral springs and relaxed atmosphere.
The thermal pools are complemented by spa facilities and outdoor activities, making it suitable for travellers who enjoy balancing wellness with adventure.
Many visitors combine a stay here with road trips through Barberton or longer journeys towards the Panorama Route.
Aliwal North Hot Springs
Located on the banks of the Orange River in the Eastern Cape, Aliwal North is home to one of South Africa’s oldest hot spring resorts.
The mineral-rich waters emerge naturally at temperatures of around 34°C, creating a pleasant soak even on the coldest winter days.
Although often overlooked, the historic town makes an excellent stop for travellers exploring inland South Africa or heading between the Eastern Cape and Free State.
Riemvasmaak Hot Springs
For those willing to venture off the beaten track, few hot springs are as spectacular as those at Riemvasmaak in the Northern Cape.
Reached via gravel roads, the springs are tucked into a dramatic rocky gorge where warm water flows into natural pools beneath towering cliffs. The remote setting feels worlds away from busy resorts, rewarding adventurous travellers with one of South Africa’s most memorable bathing experiences.
Many visitors combine the journey with a trip to Augrabies Falls National Park or a Northern Cape road trip.
Make the most of your winter soak
A visit to a hot spring is about more than the water itself. Many of South Africa’s thermal destinations are located near hiking trails, mountain passes, vineyards, nature reserves and historic towns, making them ideal for long weekends or slow-travel itineraries.
To make the most of your visit:
- Pack a warm robe or jacket for moving between pools.
- Bring slip-resistant sandals, especially for natural rock pools.
- Stay hydrated, even when spending long periods in warm water.
- Visit early in the morning or at sunset for the most atmospheric experience.
- Book accommodation well in advance during school holidays and long weekends.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape along Route 62, a family holiday in Limpopo or an off-the-grid adventure in the Northern Cape, South Africa’s hot springs offer a welcome reminder that some of the country’s best winter experiences are found not beside a fireplace, but in the water itself.
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