Spa: The Complete Guide

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Jean-Pol GRANDMONT

Visiting Spa, Belgium, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and wellness tradition in the picturesque Ardennes region. Known worldwide for its mineral-rich waters, Spa has long been a destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The town’s serene parks and beautiful surrounding forests provide a peaceful setting for leisurely walks or cycling, making it ideal for nature lovers who want to escape the bustle of city life.

Spa’s vibrant town center is full of charming cafes, restaurants, and shops where visitors can enjoy local cuisine and artisan products. The town also hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, offering a chance to experience Belgian hospitality and traditions firsthand. Whether you’re there for a spa treatment or to explore, the lively atmosphere combined with the town’s historic charm makes it a delightful place to visit.

For those interested in wellness, Spa is home to modern spa facilities and thermal baths that continue the town’s legacy as a health retreat. Visitors can indulge in treatments using the famous mineral waters, designed to relax the body and soothe the mind. This mix of natural healing and leisure activities ensures that a trip to Spa is both refreshing and enriching, perfect for a peaceful getaway in the scenic Ardennes area.

History of Spa

Early History of Spa

The origins of Spa date back to Roman times when its natural mineral springs were first discovered and used for their healing properties. The Romans established baths around these springs, recognizing their therapeutic benefits. Over the centuries, the site remained a place for rest and recovery, attracting visitors who sought the curative powers of its waters. The name “Spa” itself became synonymous with health and wellness, originating from this early association.

Spa in the Middle Ages and Renaissance

During the Middle Ages, Spa grew in importance as a pilgrimage site for those seeking healing. The town gradually developed infrastructure to accommodate visitors, including inns and bathhouses. By the Renaissance, Spa had become a fashionable destination for European nobility and aristocrats who frequented the town to “take the waters.” The area’s reputation spread beyond the local region, and it became an early form of a health resort.

Spa in the 18th and 19th Centuries

The 18th and 19th centuries marked a golden age for Spa , as advances in transportation made the town more accessible. Spa became a popular meeting place for European elites, artists, and intellectuals. Grand hotels and elegant casinos were built to cater to this high society clientele. The town’s cultural life flourished, and it hosted many notable figures. It was during this period that Spa’s name became internationally known as a byword for relaxation and luxury associated with mineral springs and wellness.

Visiting Spa for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Spa on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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1. Spa Belgium – Visit Thermes de Spa

Thermes de Spa is one of the most famous thermal spas in Belgium, known for its natural hot springs and wellness treatments. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of pools, saunas, and relaxation areas surrounded by beautiful Ardennes nature. The spa facilities blend modern comforts with the healing qualities of mineral-rich waters, making it an ideal place to unwind.

Entry costs vary depending on the package, but a day pass typically starts around €30. The spa is open daily, usually from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, but it’s best to check specific hours in advance. The experience caters to both casual visitors and those seeking longer wellness stays.

2. Spa Belgium – Explore the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps

The Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps is a legendary Formula 1 racetrack just outside the town, attracting motorsport fans worldwide. Even if you’re not attending a race, the circuit offers guided tours where you can explore the pit lane, paddock, and some restricted areas, learning about its rich racing history.

Apart from events, visitors can experience driving days or karting nearby. The circuit’s proximity to Spa makes it a thrilling day trip, combining adrenaline with the scenic Ardennes surroundings.

3. Spa Belgium – Stroll through Parc de Sept Heures

Parc de Sept Heures is a lovely public park in Spa, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic. Its green spaces, mature trees, and flowerbeds provide a peaceful escape within the town. The park often hosts small events and markets, adding local charm to your visit.

The park is open year-round, free to enter, and conveniently located near the town center. It’s a great spot to relax after visiting nearby attractions or to enjoy the fresh air of the Ardennes.

4. Spa Belgium – Discover the Museum of the Eau Thermale

This small but informative museum is dedicated to the history of Spa’s thermal waters and the development of its spa culture. Exhibits cover the geological origins of the springs, traditional healing methods, and the evolution of the town as a wellness destination.

The museum typically charges a small entrance fee of around €5 and is open on weekdays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It’s a fascinating stop for those interested in the science and tradition behind Spa’s reputation.

5. Spa Belgium – Visit the Collegiate Church of Saint Remacle

The Collegiate Church of Saint Remacle is a notable religious site with beautiful Gothic architecture. Inside, visitors can admire stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and a serene atmosphere. The church often hosts concerts and cultural events, enriching the local experience.

Entry is free, and it is open to visitors during daylight hours. The church is centrally located and accessible, making it an easy cultural visit when in Spa.

6. Spa Belgium – Hike to the Cascade de la Hoëgne

Within a short drive of Spa, the Cascade de la Hoëgne offers a stunning natural waterfall set in the Ardennes forest. This scenic spot is ideal for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers, featuring well-marked trails of varying difficulty.

There is no entrance fee, and the area is open year-round. The fresh air and tranquil setting make it a perfect day outing for visitors wanting to combine outdoor activity with Spa’s wellness offerings.

7. Spa Belgium – Explore the Royal Golf Club des Fagnes

The Royal Golf Club des Fagnes, located near Spa, is a top destination for golf lovers. Set amidst rolling Ardennes hills, this 18-hole golf course offers challenging play alongside beautiful landscapes. The club also has a clubhouse with dining facilities.

Visitors can book tee times in advance, with green fees typically ranging from €50 to €90 depending on the season. Beginners can arrange lessons, making it welcoming for all skill levels.

8. Spa Belgium – Walk the Avenue Reine Astrid

Avenue Reine Astrid is a charming street in Spa lined with elegant Belle Époque architecture and quaint shops. Walking here offers a glimpse into the town’s historic spa era, with many buildings originally designed to accommodate visitors coming for the thermal waters.

The avenue is open to pedestrians and free to explore any time. Nearby cafes and boutiques make this a pleasant route for shopping or relaxing.

9. Spa Belgium – Visit the Pavillon des Sources

Pavillon des Sources is a beautifully preserved historic building that once served as a spa pavilion. Today, it hosts exhibitions and cultural events that highlight Spa’s heritage. The site often features art displays and special programs linked to the thermal culture.

Entry may be free or require a small donation depending on the event. It’s worth checking the schedule during your visit to catch any unique exhibitions.

10. Spa Belgium – Enjoy Nature at the Haute Fagnes-Eifel Nature Park

The Haute Fagnes-Eifel Nature Park stretches close to Spa and is one of Belgium’s most extensive natural reserves. Visitors can explore peat bogs, forests, and moorlands on marked trails. The park’s biodiversity includes rare plants and wildlife, ideal for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Open year-round with free access, the park offers visitor centers with maps and guidance. It’s a wonderful complement to a Spa trip for those who enjoy hiking and pristine landscapes.