If you're craving a relaxing holiday but can't quite summon up the energy (or funds) for an overseas venture, we've got good news for you. Queensland is filled with bubbling hot springs that are beautiful, secluded and the ultimate form of outback relaxation.
A rich source of sulfur and other earthy minerals, hot springs have known healing powers, and have been scientifically proven to treat skin irritations and help users unwind. Treat yourself to a natural spa day at seven of the most incredible hot springs in Queensland.
Charlotte Plains
Cunnamulla
If you're ready to get steamy out under the open skies, treat yourself to a trip out west with a visit to Charlotte Plains. A historic family-owned and -operated sheep station, the plains come complete with Artesian bore baths naturally heated to 42°C.
Soak your worries away in an outdoor bath filled with the waters as you breathe in the fresh outback air and watch the steam melt away into the plains’ natural landscape. The Charlotte Plains team also offer authentic Australian outback experience to visitors, such as guided tours and sheep station experiences. Extend your stay here by camping under the stars or booking the 'Shearer's Station' cabin.
Coming Soon: Cunnamulla Hot Springs
Cunnamulla
Coming to southern Queensland in mid-2023 is the Cunnamulla Hot Springs, a stunning new hot springs destination where ultimate relaxation is guaranteed. This incredible experience beside the Warrego River will feature multiple free-flowing pools filled with mineral rich artesian water, naturally heated by the artesian basin that runs underground below.
There will be both hot and cold plunge pools to dip into, along with a range of therapeutic activities in the state-of-the-art complex that is currently under construction. Stay tuned for more information here and start planning your outback road trip, stat.
Innot Hot Springs
Tablelands Region
Nestled within the stunning Tablelands regions, Innot Hot Springs doesn’t look like much at first glance. The springs comprise the warm, shallow waters of Nettle Creek, which could easily be mistaken for just another waterway flowing through the Cairns hinterland.
But don’t let your eyes deceive you—some parts of the creek can reach up to 75°C, and the water is jam packed with minerals guaranteed to give you that gorgeous day-spa glow. These free, natural hot springs are great to add to your list if you're exploring the Tablelands Region—be sure to tick off the nearby Tully Gorge National Park.
Talaroo Hot Springs
Etheridge Area
Located about 4.5 hours drive west of Cairns, Talaroo Hot Springs is a surreal area of natural geothermal springs which has formed terraces throughout the savannah landscape. Nestled within Traditional Ewamian lands, the 65-million-year-old natural wonderland offers you a chance to soak up the benefits of the pools’ healing benefits whilst learning about Ewamian values and cultural customs.
With 35 powered caravan park sites, 25 campsites and purpose-built amenities, you can stay a while or just drop in for a day trip (make sure you book in advance). Book a session in a private soaking pool for up to four people, and enjoy the blissful waters all to yourself or if you're staying for a while, parake in stargazing and join the nightly yarning circle by the campfire.
Balonne Artesian Thermal Hot Springs
Keen for a weekend road trip? At just five and a half hours’ drive from Brissy, the Balonne Artesian Thermal Hot Springs are the perfect place for a weekend away. Officially opened in 2019, the springs are a mainstay of Queensland’s southern outback, and offer waters heated to a comfortable 34°C.
Fitted with access-friendly ramps and rails, the modern Balonne Artesian Thermal Springs are a great way to experience one of Queensland’s hot springs’ reputed healing properties before making a lengthier trip.
Julia Creek Artesian Baths
Mckinlay Shire
For a true taste of the Aussie outback experience, set your sights on the Julia Creek Artesian Baths. Just under three hours’ east of Mount Isa, Julia Creek lies on the Great Artesian Basin, one of the largest freshwater basins in the world.
The basin’s Artesian waters are confined and pressurised against ancient geological formations, enriching them with sulphur, calcium and magnesium. The 40°C water is then extracted from bores over 900m deep, and used to fill six outdoor ceramic baths (with privacy walls) for your soaking pleasure. Order a glass of bubbly and charcuterie board for the full experience. Sign. Us. Up.
Great Artesian Spa Mitchell
Maranoa Region
The last stop on our tour of Queensland’s most incredible soaking experiences is Mitchell’s Great Artesian Spa. Located just an hour west of Roma, the spa comprises two sprawling pools filled with naturally heated Artesian water.
Perfect for relaxing sore muscles after a long day out, Mitchell’s Great Artesian Spa has been designed for easy access, making it ideal for those who struggle to pull themselves away from a long, hot soak. Plus, a spa day pass will only put you back $10 per adult and $8 per child.
Looking for more ways to live it up without risking COVID border closures? Check out our top picks for the 15 best spots to go glamping around Brisbane.
Image credit: Charlotte Plains, Tourism & Events Queensland &Talaroo Hot Springs