Top 6 Hot Springs in Victoria for a Relaxing Weekend Escape

Victoria’s got some incredible hot springs that are perfect for anyone looking to unwind – from first-time visitors to regulars who know their way around a mineral pool. Here are some of the best spots!

We Are Explorers acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Countries on which these adventures take place who have occupied and cared for these lands and waters for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Look, we all love a raging, out-of-this-world adventure… but even the hardiest of Explorers need a weekend off everyone now and again to chill out and enjoy some R&R. And what better way to unwind than in one of Victoria’s countless natural hot springs?

Victoria is the go-to destination for amazing natural hot springs, with everything from hilltop pools with epic views, to hidden garden springs. Most of the hot springs in Victoria can’t be found in Melbourne, but they’re well worth the drive. So grab ya robe, hit up your friends, make a (zen) playlist, and let’s explore some of the best hot springs around Victoria. But first…

What are hot springs?

Hot springs are natural pools of warm, mineral-rich water that come up from deep underground. Thanks to natural heat from volcanic activity or underground water sources, like the Dilwyn Aquifer, hot springs are perfect for a soothing soak. The water is loaded with minerals like magnesium, calcium, and potassium, which are known for promoting relaxation and overall wellness.

Best Hot Springs in Victoria

1. Peninsula Hot Springs, Mornington Peninsula

Why We Love It

Peninsula Hot Springs in the gorgeous Mornington Peninsula is the OG hot springs escape in Victoria, and it’s still a crowd favourite. Spread over 42 acres with more than 70 pools and spa experiences, it’s a spot where you can find a little bit of everything. Start with the famous hilltop pool – the views are epic (but on peak days like weekends you may have to queue for a hot minute).

If you’re up for something spicy, try the Fire & Ice experience where you switch between super hot pools and icy plunges. There’s also the Spa Dreaming Centre, which is an adults-only section with private pools and massages to completely unwind. Or, if you want to relax, book in a moonlight private bathing sesh (which you can book until 2am!).

How to Get There

Peninsula Hot Springs are in Fingal on the Mornington Peninsula, about 90 minutes from Melbourne. The easiest way to get there is by car, but if you’re on public transport, take a train to Frankston, switch to a bus to Rye, then a short taxi to the springs site. Worth it once you’re there!

2. Alba Thermal Springs and Spa, Mornington Peninsula

Why We Love It

Alba Thermal Springs on the Mornington Peninsula (just down the road from Peninsula Hot Springs) is pure bliss (and very Insta-worthy if you want to make ya fans jealous). Set on 15 hectares of gorgeous, calming landscape, and with 31 different pools to explore, there’s something here for every vibe.

You’ve got cosy, tucked-away spots for some quiet time, and larger, social pools if you feel like a chat. There are geothermal pools to soak in, refreshing cold plunges, herbal-infused botanical pools, and even rain pools! It’s the perfect place to kick back, relax, and let nature do its thing.

How to Get There

Alba’s just down the road from Peninsula Hot Springs, so it’s about 90 minutes from Melbourne. The easiest way to get there is by car.

3. Deep Blue Hot Springs, Warrnambool

Why We Love It

The Deep Blue Hotel is for anyone wanting a relaxing coastal getaway. Located in beautiful Warrnambool, it has a great mix of rock pools (15 mineral spring rock pools in total), sensory caves, an aromatherapy pool, a cold plunge, and a reflection bay.

With natural mineral waters that are above 45 degrees, these geothermal waters actually come straight from rainfall that passes through the Earth’s layers to reach what’s known as the ‘Dilwyn Aquifier’ – which is an underground geological formation. So, you know these hot springs are legit.

This spot is perfect if you’re taking a scenic drive along the Great Ocean Road and want to stop for a proper soak. Plus there’s on-site accommodation, dining, and even spa and salt therapy experiences to make it a full retreat. Talk about pure relaxation!

How to Get There

Deep Blue is a three-hour drive from Melbourne along the scenic Great Ocean Road. If you’re not up for the drive, hop on a V/Line train to Warrnambool and grab a quick taxi ride to the springs.

4. Metung Hot Springs, East Gippsland

Why We Love It

From the team behind Peninsula Hot Springs, Metung Hot Springs on the Gippsland Lakes is the go-to spot if you’re after a bathing experience with a view. These pools sit up on a hill overlooking the lakes, so you get beautiful scenery while you soak.

You can spend the day switching between hot springs, plunge pools, and geothermal showers, or take it up a notch with private spa treatments, wellness classes, and the 16+ hilltop escarpment for some peaceful, adults-only time. With glamping, golf, and lots of wellness options, Metung Hot Springs is the ideal spot to treat yourself to a day spa after exploring East Gippsland’s natural beauty.

How to Get There

Metung Hot Springs is around a four-hour drive east of Melbourne. If you’re using public transport, take a V/Line train to Bairnsdale, then it’s a short Uber ride from there.

5. Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve, Daylesford

Why We Love It

Daylesford Hepburn Bathhouse has been around since the late 1800s, so it’s basically the original mineral springs experience in not just Victoria, but all of Australia. It’s a simple, peaceful spot with mineral-rich water that’s meant to do wonders for aching muscles. This water really has healing powers!

What I love most about this spot is that the parklands around the bathhouse have some gorgeous walking trails if you want to wander before or after your soak. You can also book in for a range of water therapies, steam therapies, and spa treatments if you feel like treating yourself.

How to Get There

About 90 minutes northwest of Melbourne by car (or 4.5 hours by train… if you particularly like train rides).

6. Japanese Mountain Retreat, Dandenongs

Why We Love It

For something a bit different, head to the Japanese Mountain Retreat in the Dandenong Ranges. Set on five acres, this retreat is very luxurious and intimate, so while you can go solo or with a mate, it’s definitely marketed as a romantic escape (like, swimwear is optional in each of the three bathing pools…).

But you do you – there’s no reason you can’t make it a platonic romantic escape if you have no problem getting nakie with friends. You’ll find private outdoor baths, an indoor Roman bath and steam room, plus a range of spa treatments and authentic Japanese dining.

How to Get There

Located in Montrose, it’s about an hour’s drive from Melbourne. Or you can take a train to Lilydale, then a bus to the springs.

Tips for Visiting Hot Springs in Victoria

• Book ahead: Spots like Peninsula Hot Springs and Alba Thermal Springs get busy, so it’s best to book ahead, especially on weekends
• Take a bottle of water: All that soaking can dehydrate you, so keep a water bottle handy to sip between dips
• Take it slow: Try not to stay in the hot pools for too long – around 15-20 minutes at a time is ideal. Hop out, cool off, and relax before your next dip. A quick splash in a cold plunge pool is a nice reset too
• Pack smart: Bring a cossie, towel, and maybe a robe if you’re planning to stay a while. Some places have towels for hire too, but this usually costs extra
• Pack your hiking boots: Lots of hot springs, like Metung or Deep Blue in Warrnambool, are in amazing natural surroundings with plenty of other outdoor activities to do while you’re in the area, so make sure you pack your adventure gear for a pre or post soak adventure

Hot Springs Victoria FAQs

Does Victoria have natural hot springs?

Yep! Victoria has some amazing natural hot springs! The Mornington Peninsula alone is home to a few, like Peninsula Hot Springs and Alba Thermal Springs, both offering a range of natural hot springs. There’s also Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa near Daylesford, which is part of Australia’s first mineral springs reserve.

Are the Peninsula Hot Springs natural?

You betcha! Peninsula Hot Springs uses natural geothermal mineral waters sourced from 637m underground. The variety of pools in natural surrounds and the absolutely stunning setting make this spot popular for people looking to find some serious serenity in nature. With everything from herbal-infused botanical pools to private bathing and cold plunge pools, it’s a true geothermal adventure.

How long can you sit in hot springs?

Hot spring soaks are generally recommended in 15–20 minute intervals, especially in very warm pools. Taking short breaks in between soaks is a good idea. Lots of hot springs have cold plunge pools where you can take a quick dip to cool down. While hot springs are great for your body, you need to find the right balance between soaking in the mineral springs and cooling off, helping you get into the ‘complete relaxation zone’ without getting overheated.

What are the benefits of hot springs?

Hot springs have a lot to offer for both body and mind. They’re said to ease muscle and joint pain, boost circulation, reduce stress, and are great for your skin. It’s pretty easy to see why spots on this list (like Peninsula Hot Springs and Hepburn Springs Bathhouse) are so popular for a wellness break.

More Outdoor Adventures in Victoria

Looking for some epic adventures around Victoria! We’ve got you covered. Here are some of our faves!

• How to Spend 5 Days on Victoria’s Iconic Coastline
• The Best Day Trips from Melbourne
• Victoria’s Best Multi-Day Hikes
• Top Waterfalls in Victoria
• The Best 4WD Tracks in VIC
• Amazing Beach Camping Spots in Victoria

Photos by @ben.savage