Aqua Ignis

The Blue Mountains just scored a seriously stunning new spot to switch off, soak up, and slow down with the arrival of Aqua Ignis Bathhouse in Blackheath. Set inside a beautifully restored heritage-listed building, this new bathhouse is equal parts design statement and sensory escape.

Designed by Siki Im—a Korean-born, Germany-raised designer known for his minimalist, materially rich work—the project fuses modern form with elemental ritual, bringing the ancient art of communal bathing into a distinctly Australian context.

Inside, you’ll find a 38-degree magnesium pool inspired by Japanese onsen culture, a herbal-infused steam room, a hot rock sauna, and invigorating cold plunge pools. Guests can move through contrasting bathing circuits like the Yin Flow (steam, magnesium bath, and quiet rest) or the Yang Flow (sauna, cold plunge, and social rest), depending on their mood.

Founders Taku Kjelgaard and Lee Niass (long-time locals) say Aqua Ignis was born from a shared love of heat, rhythm, and ritual.

“We wanted to create something rooted in the soul of traditional bathing culture—but reimagined for how we live today,” says Kjelgaard. “It’s a space to engage the senses, connect with others, and rediscover simple, elemental rituals.”

Just under two hours from Sydney, Aqua Ignis offers self-guided 90-minute bathing sessions, Seijaku silent sessions, and seasonal wellness gatherings, with memberships and event packages set to roll out through the year. Book online. 

Image credit: Aqua Ignis | Supplied