Terme Tuhelj

Terme Tuhelj is a large thermal spa and recreation complex in the village of Tuhelj, in the hills of Hrvatsko Zagorje, roughly forty kilometres from Zagreb. It is one of Croatia’s best-known continental spa resorts, drawing families from the capital and visitors from neighbouring countries who come for warm water, saunas and a break from the city.

The setting is a green valley of low wooded hills, vineyards and small villages, a gentler landscape than the sea coast and one that fits the unhurried character of a spa visit. The resort grew around thermal water that rises here, rich in minerals, and around mud that is used for treatments. Spa traditions in the Zagorje region go back a long way, and several other thermal centres lie within a short drive, so it is common to visit a few of them on the same trip.

The core of the complex is Water Planet, a large series of indoor and outdoor pools linked by channels, with warm thermal water, slides and play areas for children, as well as quieter pools for adults who want to float and relax. Because part of the complex is indoors and heated, it works in every season, and winter visits, with steam rising from the outdoor pools into cold air, are especially atmospheric. Next to the pools is the Sauna World, which is advertised as the largest in Croatia, with a range of themed saunas, steam rooms and relaxation areas. Treatments such as massages and mud therapies can be booked at the wellness centre.

Visitors can stay on site in Hotel Well, which is the main hotel, or choose the family-oriented Camp Vita, where there are camping pitches and glamping tents. Many guests simply come for a day, and the complex is designed to accommodate day visitors as well as overnight guests.

Beyond the pools, the village has a Baroque manor known as Mihanović Castle, which adds a note of local history to the visit. With so much on offer, the wider Zagorje region still has a good deal to offer for the rest of a trip, including castles, vineyards and small restaurants where guests can taste local dishes.

Terme Tuhelj suits families with children, couples after a weekend of rest and anyone interested in wellness. Weekends and school holidays are the busiest, and visiting on a weekday gives more room in the pools and saunas. Bring swimwear, a towel and sandals if you wish, and check the current entry rules and sauna etiquette on arrival.