HOT SPRINGS or THERAPEUTIC BATHS

Hot springs, also called thermal springs, hot baths, thermal baths, and therapeutic waters, are to be found at quite a number of locations all over the island of Lesvos. These have been in use since antiquity, and history records several Roman emporers as vacationing on Lesvos in order to take the “cure” at the therapeutic baths.  In fact, near many of the present bath facilities, there can be seen ruins from much earlier periods. 

The hot springs are recommended by physicians for the treatment of rheumatism, arthritis, sciatica, gynecological problems, skin conditions, gallstones, and many of the island’s inhabitants are regular visitors.  Several of the bath facilities have massage, inhalation, and physical therapy as extra attractions.  At most of the baths, women and men are separated.  Almost all have showers and changing rooms.

We are lucky to have the Hot Springs of Polichnitos just a short distance from Vatera, about 5 kilometers up the road.  They are famous for having the hottest hot water in all of Europe, as some of the springs there reach 92 degrees Celsius.  Of course the water in the actual bathhouses is mixed to a more acceptable temperature, and one normally only stays in the water for 10 or 15 minutes. 

It is an amazingly relaxing experience.  While many of our European guests have tried hot springs elsewhere, many of our guests from England, America, Canada, or Australia, had never tried a therapeutic bath.  Many decide to repeat their visit to the baths, and the comment we enjoy most is “Ahh…, everything works” as they give a big stretch to weary bones and muscles.