Hot Springs Victoria: Your 2025 Guide to Thermal Springs That’ll Make You Melt (In the Best Way)

Darlings, we need to talk about your stress levels. When was the last time you properly unwound? Not the wine-and-Netflix kind (though we love that too), but the transformative, mineral-water-soaking, phone-in-a-locker, emergence-as-a-new-person kind of relaxation?

Welcome to Victoria’s hot springs scene – where the water is therapeutic, the vibes are immaculate, and yes, everyone looks gorgeous in that misty, post-soak glow. Think of it as nature’s Instagram filter, but better because it actually makes you feel amazing too.

Whether you’re planning a girls’ trip, a romantic escape, treating your work wife, or shopping for the perfect gift that says “I care about your wellness journey,” we’ve personally tested every pool, rated every robe, and judged every change room (because details matter) to bring you this essential guide.

Quick Answer: Where to Get Your Soak On

The Hot List (Literally):

Peninsula Hot Springs - The OG icon with 70+ pools, from $50

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKG_3F_My62/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Alba Thermal Springs - New luxury darling, from $65

https://www.instagram.com/p/DKi4b9FR1hB/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Metung Hot Springs - Gippsland’s hidden gem, from $45

https://www.instagram.com/p/DDskHXyMrAC/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Deep Blue Hot Springs - Coastal charm, from $42

https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cfn79MFOIVV/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Hepburn Bathhouse - Historic chic, from $40

https://www.instagram.com/p/DIXahJWM0W1/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

What It’ll Cost You:

Basic entry: $40-$75 (less than your monthly coffee budget)
Boujee private experiences: $95-$350
Full spa packages: $200-$600 (worth every penny)
Gift vouchers: $50-$500+ (the gift that actually gets used)

Gift Voucher Gold: Peninsula and Alba win for presentation – their vouchers arrive looking like little luxury parcels

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DIhoc3nTOwf/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Why Victorian Hot Springs Are Having a Major Moment

Let’s spill the (mineral-rich) tea: Victoria’s hot springs scene has gone from niche to necessary. Here’s what’s making everyone obsessed:

The Wellness Revolution Is Real

Post-2020, we all collectively realized that self-care isn’t selfish – it’s survival. Hot springs are like therapy, but cheaper and with better views.

The Japanese Got It Right

Onsen culture has arrived, bringing with it the art of communal bathing, meditative soaking, and the life-changing discovery that being naked with strangers can actually be liberating (at certain venues, darling).

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Because Melbourne Weather

Only in Victoria can you experience four seasons in one day. Hot springs? Perfect for literally any weather. Raining? Magical. Sunny? Blissful. Snowing? Stop everything and go immediately.

Peninsula Hot Springs: The Grande Dame

She’s been serving thermal realness since 2005, and honey, she’s only gotten better with age.

Why Peninsula Slays:

70+ Experiences: From ice caves to Turkish hammams (variety is the spice of life)
The Hilltop Pool: Where everyone gets that photo
Moonlight Bathing: Friday/Saturday late-night sessions for when you want to feel mystical
Family Zones: Because sometimes you need to bring the kids (they have their own area, thank god)

https://www.instagram.com/p/CvRhafwPe2y/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The Price Tag (2025):

Midweek Magic: $50 (Tuesday-Thursday is when smart people go)
Weekend Warrior: $75 (worth it for the ‘gram alone)
Private Pools: From $95pp (for when you need to discuss sensitive topics)
Spa Treatments: From $200 (treat yourself, you deserve it)
Gift Vouchers: From $50, valid for 3 years (no pressure, bestie)

Insider Intel:

Book 3-4 weeks ahead for weekends (or enjoy FOMO)
The amphitheatre pools are new and less chaotic
Pack a cute robe – the rental ones are giving hospital chic
Gift vouchers can be upgraded on the day (genius move)

Perfect For:

Hot springs virgins, hen’s parties, family bonding, anyone who needs content

Alba Thermal Springs: The New It-Girl

Opened in 2023, Alba is what happens when hot springs meet high fashion. She’s exclusive, she’s refined, and yes, she’s a little bit extra – in the best way.

What Makes Alba Special:

Adults Only: Sorry kids, this is a grown-up playground (16+)
Architectural Marvel: Built into sand dunes like a sexy hobbit hole
Karen Martini Restaurant: Celebrity chef realness
Capacity Limits: They actually turn people away (the exclusivity!)

https://www.instagram.com/p/C_ISD4RNNAz/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Investment Level:

Weekday Escape: $65 (still cheaper than therapy)
Weekend Splurge: $79 (budget for the mandatory lunch too)
Spa Indulgence: From $185 (go big or go home)
Gift Packages: Arrive in boxes so pretty you won’t want to give them away

The Vibe Check:

Think Amalfi Coast meets Australian bush luxury. The botanical pools will have you feeling like a forest nymph, and the interior design is chef’s kiss. This is where you take your bougie friends or that person you’re trying to impress.

Ideal For:

Milestone birthdays, babymoons, third dates, treating yourself because it’s Tuesday

The Hidden Gems That’ll Make You Look Like a Local

Metung Hot Springs: The Best-Kept Secret

3.5 hours from Melbourne, but worth every kilometre.

Why We’re Obsessed:

Gippsland Lakes views that’ll ruin you for other vistas
Couple’s barrel pools (romantic AF)
Glamping options (because why leave?)
Actually affordable at $45 entry

https://www.instagram.com/p/C6-0pm5vYB1/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The Vibe: Rustic luxury meets lakeside serenity. Less scene-y than Peninsula, more authentic than Alba.

Deep Blue Hot Springs: The Coastal Cutie

On the Great Ocean Road because of course it is.

What’s Special:

Water from 850m underground (the deepest in Victoria)
Beachside location (hot springs + ocean views = perfection)
Indigenous experiences available
Just $42 entry (leave room in the budget for lunch in Warrnambool)

Best For: Road trip additions, surf and soak days, when Peninsula is fully booked

Japanese Mountain Retreat: For the Purists

Montrose’s answer to authentic onsen culture.

The Tea:

Private pools only (no awkward small talk)
Clothing optional (liberating or terrifying, you decide)
Couples-focused (wink wink)
From $200 per couple for 2.5 hours

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DIFW1S_Tehv/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Perfect For: Anniversaries, proposals, when you need to have a serious conversation while naked

Daylesford: The OG Mineral Springs Town

Before hot springs were hot, Daylesford was doing mineral water therapy. She’s vintage, she’s charming, and she’s having a renaissance.

Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa: The Historic Honey

Operating since 1895 (longevity goals).

What You Get:

Original Art Deco vibes
Mineral pools that smell slightly eggy (it’s the minerals, darling)
Spa treatments from $40 (practically free)
No Instagram crowds (refreshing)

https://www.instagram.com/p/DK5opT-sJvB/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

The Mineral Spa at Peppers: When You Want It All

Hotel + spa = dangerous for your credit card.

The Damage:

Day packages from $150
Overnight escapes from $400
Gift vouchers that include accommodation (clever)

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C3PS0aYP6Wx/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

The Gift That Keeps On Giving (Relaxation)

Let’s talk about why hot springs gift vouchers are the ultimate present for literally anyone who has a body and experiences stress (so, everyone).

Why Gift Vouchers Are Chef’s Kiss:

No Size Stress: One size actually fits all
Experience > Stuff: Marie Kondo approves
Long Expiry: Usually 3 years (no pressure)
Instantly Thoughtful: Shows you care about their wellbeing
Re-giftable: We won’t tell

Gift Guide by Recipient:

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJqSGbLvbvy/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

For Your Stressed-Out Bestie ($50-$100):

Peninsula Hot Springs weekday pass ($50)
Metung Hot Springs entry + towel hire ($60)
Deep Blue twilight session ($55)

For Your Impossible-to-Buy-For Mum ($100-$200):

Alba bathing + lunch ($120)
Peninsula private pool experience ($190)
Hepburn historic package + treatment ($150)

For Your Work Wife Who Saved Your Sanity ($200-$500):

Full spa day at Peninsula ($350)
Alba premium package with treatments ($450)
Couples escape package (hint hint) ($500)

For The Person Who Has Everything ($500+):

Glamping + hot springs packages
Annual memberships (yes, that’s a thing)
Custom experiences with private chef

Pro Gift-Giving Tips:

Physical > Digital: The unboxing experience matters
Add Extras: Towel hire, parking, lunch credits
Avoid Peak Restrictions: Some discount vouchers exclude weekends
Consider Logistics: Include transport if they don’t drive
Double Up: Two vouchers = instant girls’ trip

When to Visit: A Seasonal Style Guide

Autumn (March-May): The Photographer’s Dream

What to Wear: Cozy knits for arrival, your cutest swimsuit underneath Why Now: Misty mornings, golden leaves, perfect temperatures Gift Angle: Mother’s Day packages sell out fast

Winter (June-August): Peak Romance

What to Pack: Waterproof mascara (for the steam), thick robe The Vibe: Steam rising into cold air = pure magic Book: 6-8 weeks ahead (everyone has the same idea) Gift Gold: EOFY sales in June!

https://www.instagram.com/p/C18zGI-skWQ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Spring (September-November): The Sweet Spot

Fashion Notes: Transitional layers, bright swimwear Why It Works: Flowers blooming, crowds thinning, prices dropping Perfect For: Using those gift vouchers you got for your birthday

Essential Items: SPF everything, sunglasses, water bottle The Scene: Extended hours, holiday vibes, moonlight sessions Reality Check: Book 2 months ahead for December

Your Hot Springs Survival Kit

What to Pack (The Essentials):

Swimsuit: Pack two if you’re doing multiple sessions
Robe: BYO for hygiene queens (and better Instagram photos)
Slides: Havaianas or Birks, nothing fancy
Water Bottle: Hydrate or die-drate
Waterproof Phone Case: For underwater selfies (we see you)
Hair Tie: Unless you’re committing to the wet hair look

What They Provide:

Towels (fresh!)
Lockers (bracelet included for unlucking)
Showers (with privacy)
Hair dryers (and sometimes swimwear dryers too)

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFo-LFjRO-P/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The Unwritten Rules:

Shower first (please, we’re begging)
No running (dignity first, safety second)
Indoor voices (this isn’t a nightclub)
Ask before photographing others (consent is sexy)
No judgement (bodies are beautiful at every size)

The Science-y Bit (But Make It Fashion)

What These Minerals Actually Do:

Magnesium: Muscle relaxation and better sleep
Potassium: Reduces water retention (bye bye, bloat)
Calcium: Skin healing and renewal
Sulphur: Natural detox (hence the egg smell)
Silica: Hair and nail strength (yes please)

Health Notes:

Avoid in first trimester of pregnancy
Skip if you have open wounds
Limit alcohol (save it for après-soak)
Take breaks every 20-30 minutes
Hydrate like your skin depends on it (it does)

Level Up Your Hot Springs Game

The Perfect Day Timeline:

8:30 AM: Arrival coffee and intention setting 9:00 AM: Start with medium-temp pools 10:00 AM: Adventure into speciality experiences 11:00 AM: Refreshment break (fruit, water, gossip) 12:00 PM: Lunch (on-site or BYO picnic vibes) 1:30 PM: Final soak session 3:00 PM: Emerge reborn

Money-Saving Strategies That Don’t Compromise the Vibe:

Off-Peak Queen: Tuesday-Thursday saves 30%
Package Deals: Bathing + dining = better value
Group Bookings: 10+ people unlock discounts
Membership Math: Worth it at 4+ visits yearly
Gift Voucher Sales: Black Friday, EOFY, Valentine’s

Romance Amplifiers:

Sunset sessions hit different
Private pools for deep conversations
Couples massage add-ons
Champagne packages (always say yes)
Some venues have proposal planners (just saying)

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGNBqwlBInb/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Hot Springs + Wine: The Ultimate Victorian Flex

The Mornington Peninsula Perfect Weekend:

Saturday:

9 AM: Peninsula or Alba hot springs
1 PM: Long lunch at Port Phillip Estate
3 PM: Coastal drive photo ops
6 PM: Sunset drinks at Hotel Sorrento
Gift voucher opportunity: Buy one for your host

Sunday:

10 AM: Brunch at Green Olive
12 PM: Red Hill Brewery
2 PM: Ashcombe Maze (for the ‘gram)
4 PM: Drive home glowing

The Daylesford Long Weekend:

Friday PM:

Scenic drive via Macedon Ranges
Check into Lake House
Sunset soak at Hepburn

Saturday:

Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm
Lunch at Cliffy’s Emporium
Afternoon spa treatment
Dinner at Sault

Sunday:

Convent Gallery browsing
Final mineral spring session
Drive home planning your return

The Splurge-Worthy Experiences

Fire & Ice Therapy: The Gwyneth Paltrow Special

The Nordic circuit that’ll change your life:

Hot pool immersion (15 mins)
Ice bath plunge (30 seconds of regret)
Relaxation room recovery
Repeat 3x
Feel like a superhero

https://www.instagram.com/p/CvMTOOSLPbC/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Floating Sound Baths: Woo-Woo But Wonderful

Crystal bowls + warm water + meditation = transcendence Available at Peninsula and Alba Gift voucher gold for your spiritual bestie

Sunrise Sessions: For Morning People (Gross)

Some venues open at 6 AM Expensive but unforgettable Perfect for proposals or life epiphanies

Corporate Gifting That Doesn’t Suck

For Your Team:

Bulk voucher discounts (10-20% off)
Team building packages (trust falls in thermal pools)
Wellness program integration
Tax deductible (check with your accountant)

For Clients Who Matter:

Premium packaging upgrades
Direct delivery options
Custom messaging
Account management for regular gifting

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DIFnpabTBKH/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The Future Is Wet (And Mineral-Rich)

Coming Soon to a Region Near You:

Gippsland Lakes Resort (2026): Thermal village vibes
Ballarat Mineral Springs (2025): Gold rush luxury
Marysville Hot Springs (2026): Mountain magic

Trends We’re Watching:

Membership subscriptions (Netflix but for soaking)
Medical tourism packages
Sound healing integrations
Indigenous-led experiences

Your Action Plan (Because We’re Practical Queens)

First-Timer Protocol:

Start with Peninsula (it’s popular for a reason)
Book midweek (crowd anxiety is real)
Try basic entry first
Upgrade if you’re loving life
Buy a gift voucher for next time

Gift-Giving Goddess Moves:

Open-dated vouchers only
Add dining for the full fantasy
Consider mobility needs
Include transport if needed
Spring for physical vouchers (presentation matters)

For The Hot Springs Addicts:

Annual memberships pay off quickly
Explore the lesser-known spots
Follow socials for flash sales
Join loyalty programs
Become a brand ambassador (goals)

The Final Soak

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Look, we could tell you about mineral compositions and therapeutic benefits until the thermal pools freeze over. But here’s what really matters: Victoria’s hot springs are affordable luxury that actually makes you feel better. In a world of expensive wellness trends that overpromise and underdeliver, this is the real deal.

Whether you’re buying a gift voucher for your perpetually stressed sister, planning a girls’ trip that doesn’t revolve around wine (but can include it), or just need to escape your inbox for a few hours, there’s a perfect hot springs experience waiting.

The best part? Starting from just $40, this is self-care that won’t require a payment plan. And with gift vouchers that last three years, you’re basically investing in future happiness.

So what are you waiting for? Your stress doesn’t stand a chance against 40-degree mineral water and a no-phone policy.

Ready to join Victoria’s hot springs revolution? Start with a gift voucher – for yourself (you deserve it) or someone who really needs to relax (we all know who).

P.S. - Unlike that gym membership, hot springs gift vouchers actually get used. Plus, no one ever regretted a day spent soaking.

P.P.S. - June EOFY sales are when smart shoppers stock up on gift vouchers. You’re welcome.

Book Your Bliss: