Slovenia: Rimske Terme
Slovenia
Many people might ask: “Exactly where is Slovenia located? This charming and beautiful county is sandwiched between Italy to the West, Austria to the North, Hungary to the East and Croatia to the South. Exceptionally green and pristine, this is a country not to be missed. For those interested in health and wellness, Slovenia is a country of spas. There are many options, and I am highlighting below one of my favorites in this unique and lovely country.
Rimske Terme
A Nature and Spa Lover’s Dream!
Nestled in the verdant hills of Slovenia, you will find a place where a rich 2000- year history meets modern thermal spa and medical services at this beautiful resort surrounded by nature. Built on the site of ancient Roman baths, and home of the legendary “water nymphs,” you can literally immerse yourself in history. Napoleon’s sister was a frequent guest, and you can still see her private bathtub respectfully preserved.
In the 988+ acres of pristine land surrounding the resort you will find giant sequoias dating back to 1879 standing alongside Colorado and Spanish firs, California cedar and Japanese cypress.
Walk along the “Russian Path” which leads you through a park which encompasses more than 20 energy points where you can participate in energy chanting.
The thermal water comes from springs located approximately 3300 feet (1000 meters) below the earth’s surface. Studies have shown a beneficial effect on health and wellness. Click here to learn more about the unique water composition and the documented health benefits.
The Wellness Center offers beauty treatments, a well-equipped gym and nearly 5000 sq ft (450 m2) of swimming pools which include 1 indoor/outdoor pool, 4 indoor and 3 outdoor massage pools equipped with seats and recliners.
The extensive sauna area offers Roman, Finnish, Turkish and infrared saunas along with a cold plunge pool to help with circulation.
The Medical Center offers the latest technology for rehabilitation including Physical Therapy, Hydrotherapy, Thermotherapy, Kinesiotherapy, Electrotherapy, Magnetic Therapy and Therapeutic Massage. The therapeutic pool is kept at between 90-95 degrees (32-35 centigrade) which is perfect for water exercises offered daily. The medical treatment package can include up to 23 healing therapies in a week.
Beautiful rooms with stunning views, engaging tours offerings and excellent food choices (buffet and a la carte) will round out your Slovenian wellness vacation.
Why I Recommend Rimske Terme
Quality and Value for Price and Rich History
Slovenia is a hidden gem of a country, and Rimske Terme offers all the amenities of world-class spa and health resorts and an affordable price.
The location in pristine nature can’t be beat and provides a one-of-a-kind experience. In the location of the baths, marble altars and monuments dedicated to nymphs and the Roman goddess of health Valetuda were discovered.
The Medical Center is excellent and staffed with enthusiastic and friendly professionals. You first meet with a doctor who determines your weekly therapies. I liked this aspect very much, because the therapies are prescribed for your particular needs.
The Spa is beautiful. The design and flow of the pools and outdoor areas are in alignment with nature. The sauna area is well designed and has a separate entrance which affords more privacy since it is a swimsuit-free area. Beauty treatments are exceptionally professional. Many unique treatments are offered and the therapists are knowledgeable and friendly.
The food is plentiful and varied at the buffet restaurant while the a la Carte Restaurant is elegant and offers unique menus and a more private setting.
Travel Information
How to Get There
There are a number of available airport options.
I flew into Zagreb which has a good international accessibility and is about 1.5 hrs away from Rimske Terme driving.
Other airport options are Vienna about 3.5hrs and Ljubliana which is about a 1.15 minute drive.
Transfers can be arranged in advance with the hotel or trains are also an option.
One of my favorite sites for comparing the best ways to get from point A to point B is www.rome2rio.com.
What to Bring
Much depends on the season and your plans for hiking, biking and/or exploring. In the warmer months, bring good hiking shoes, hats, sunscreen and outdoor/ adventure clothes. For the resort, flip flops for the spa area, swimsuits, and resort casual clothes for meals. Robes and slippers are provided in the rooms and some guests wear robes to meals depending on treatments and/or spa plans. Slippers are good while in the room, however I find that flip flops offer more traction on wet spa floors.
Winter can be cold, so unless you plan to be inside your entire stay, bring what you would normally bring for colder winters at home.
What to Expect
A special experience in a friendly, under-the-radar country that might surprise you
The desk speaks English and multiple other languages. I found the staff to be friendly and helpful. Outside the resort, people will speak some English, however, do not expect this to always be the case. A smile and patience go a long way when visiting countries where English is not the primary language. Remember to always be respectful and courteous just as you would expect foreigners in your home country to be while visiting.
My Recommended Treatments
Mini (6 treatments) / Midi (10 treatments) or Maxi (17 treatments)
Health is a main pillar of Wellbeing. Therefore it’s necessary nurture it, especially during illness or when suffering from other health problems, when our body requires special attention.
I had a specific sports-related injury (left knee) and opted for the Maxi package. The treatments really helped me ease the pain and increase mobility.
If you have a doctor treating you at home, bring his or her recommendation and current treatment plan with you. This will help the doctor at the Medical Center devise the best treatment plan for you.
Each package includes free medical examination. Physiotherapy is recommended for a variety of diseases and health conditions:
- chronic pain in the cervical and lumbar spine
- chronic pain in the large joints ( shoulders, hips, knees, etc.)
- metabolic conditions (gout)
- rheumatoid arthritis
- injuries
- degenerative diseases of large joints or spine (arthrosis, spondylosis).
We will help you select the treatments that will be most beneficial for your health according to your past and present health condition. Following therapies are available:
- balneo therapy (exercises in a rehabilitation pool, pearl bath)
- thermotherapy (1 thermo wrap, 1 fango wrap, infrared light, cryotherapy)
- electrotherapy ( DD, TENS, interferential currents, galvanic currents)
- magnetic therapy,
- ultrasound therapy
- laser therapy
- individual exercises,
- vibration therapy (3D chair).
I opted for the 5/ 30-minute package. My therapist was professional and skilled, and I found that it was more effective than non-therapeutic massages I have had in the past.
This facial was by far one of the most effective facials for hydration that I have had.
