China – Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area

When hot water bubbles up through the surface of the earth, the resulting springs are some of the most amazing natural wonders you can encounter. For centuries, these mineral-rich waters have either gathered naturally into pools or have been channeled into man-made spas, both options providing therapeutic and medicinal benefits—and some good old-fashioned relaxation. And while some of these springs aren’t suitable for swimming, they’re still photogenic enough to get you hundreds of likes on Instagram. Here, 12 of the best hot springs around the world.

Pamukkale, Denizli, Turkey

The 17 tiered pools of Pamukkale (“cotton castle” in Turkish) are as beautiful as hot springs get. The stacks of white travertine (a form of limestone) overlook the city of Denizli, and the still, 94-degree Fahrenheit waters perfectly reflect the cerulean Aegean sky.

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