late September 2026

Thermal spaaahhh

The plains of north and central eastern Slovenia are part of the Pannonian Basin. If you want to read more about the geology, you're on your own. I was not able to find a simple summary to include here.

Anyway, the mineral and thermal waters of the Pannonian Basin have been enjoyed by humans, some since ancient times, for their health and healing properties.

We were fortunate to spend a couple days at Terme Olimia, a large complex of thermal pools, saunas, steam rooms and hotels. The Hotel Sotelia where we stayed did not allow children, so it was quiet and spotless. The size of the whole property was unexpectedly humongous! It is just one of dozens of spa resorts in the region, most of which cater to families with water parks and a variety of activities for children.

We left cell phones in our room, rested, soaked, sauna'd, read, had a massage, ate well, and enjoyed the peaceful waters. What a treat!

Here's a link to Terme Olimia's Instagram page if you want to get an idea of the scale of the place: https://www.instagram.com/reel/Da0EJAYo9UU/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&stkn=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==