Bagni di Bormio: More than just a spa outing

For more than 2000 years, the alpine village of Bormio has been a paradise of relaxation.  

Nestled in the beauty of Upper Valtelina Valley, Bormio’s wealth of hot springs have given birth to the famous Bagni di Bormio, a rejuvenating experience that seamlessly combines  ancient history, nature and wellness. The Bormio baths have also been a favourite of tourists for decades now, especially those who flock the region for a skiing vacation. Their closeness to the thrilling atmoshpere of Livigno and Bormio’s own history of hosting the Alpine Ski World Cup make these baths the perfect stop to treat yourself to a day of wellness amidst all the action! 

Divided into two baths, Bagni Vecchi and Bagni Nuovi, below we have rounded up all that you need to know about Bagni di Bormio for the ultimate wellness experience! 

The ancient building and the outdoor swimming pool at Bagni Vecchi Spa

What is the difference between Bagni Nuovi and Bagni Vecchi di Bormio if you have to choose between the two?  

While Bagni Vecchi has been used as a thermal spa since the ancient times with its structure dating back to the early Middle Ages, Bagni Nuovi are a more recent and fancy liberty-style facilty. However, being older, Bagni Vecchi provides one of the most fascinating and evocative experiences that goes beyond just wellness to offer breathtaking views, unspoilt nature and ancient history!

Where are the Bagni di Bormio Thermal Baths? 

Just 3 km from the centre of Bormio and less than 1 hour from the ski resort of Livigno, Bagni Vecchi has everything you need: from gorging on wellness food to an "aperiterme" service, an aperitif in your bathrobe to end your experience in the best way. Bagni Nuovi, on the other hand, are closer to the centre of the town at just a 7 minute drive.  

The spas has been restored to include various "thermal circuits" and uses healing waters from three springs in Mount Reit. These springs provide hot baths year-round, even in winter when the Dolomite mountains in the vicinity are covered in snow, creating a unique and picturesque experience. This combination of natural hot springs, the surrounding snow-covered mountains, and the restored spa facilities likely offers a serene and relaxing environment for visitors.

Snow descends on Bormio with Bagni Nuovi in the centre 

What to do at Bagni Vecchi Spa? 

The spa circuit begins with the panoramic thermal pool. From this pool, perched on a cliff, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the entire valley of Bormio with stunning views of the Stelvio National Park. Visitors can even spot Alpine natives like the ibex from this strategic vantage point. The thermal pool has a small wall on which you can rest and admire the surrounding nature. There is also an area with whirlpool. It is definitely a unique experience in summer, but in winter, it is even more special when the panorama is snow-covered.  

Two of the Bormio baths take you back in time. Located in the Roman Baths or Cassiodoro's pool, the oldest area of the spa, these are two side-by-side pools dug into the rock, a true return to antiquity in an evocative atmosphere. One of the 9 thermal water springs can also be found in these baths.

A historic external view of the old Roman thermal baths 

For those who love steam bath, there is the Grotta Sudatoria or Grotta di San Martino which is a natural grotto. It was built in 1825 and consists of two galleries carved into the rock that are over 50 metres long. From this path, you can admire one of the thermal water springs. In the first gallery there is the Trepidarium, Laconicu and Frigidarium, with icy water, while in the second you can try the Calidarium with hot thermal water.

Those who prefer saunas should try the Medieval Baths, a detoxifying path for body care in an ancient and evocative setting. One of the three saunas is particularly popular because of its lavender scent. If you want to combine physical and mental wellbeing, Bagni Imperiali offers an invigorating course with various baths, including hydro-massage baths, alternating with panoramic relaxation areas with views.

A captivating areal view of the pictureque town of Bormio 

Lastly, make sure to include the Archduchess Baths which was built back in 1825 for the Archduchess of Austria. The plunge pool is a real gem that will leave your skin soft and moisturised. This pool for up to 6 people is always very popular thanks also to the relaxation areas around it.  

Scent lovers are going to love Olfactorium. The gentle, scented molecules in the air evoke feelings, memories, and surprising emotions, triggering a sensory journey. While sea nostalgic will appreciate the Salt grotto, a place that resembles a slice of the sea as the salt walls emit sea air bringing positive effects on the skin, respiratory system, and water retention, providing a refreshing and invigorating experience. 

Don’t forget to try Aufguss, a purifying ritual in an hot sauna. An aromatised stream is diffused to eleiminate toxins, stimulate the lymphatic system and refresh your complexion.  

And in between all this, don’t forget to enjoy an herbal tea on offer!

 A lush panoramic aerial view of Bagni Nuovi and Vecchi  

How much does admission to the Bagni Vecchi and Bagni Nuovi di Bormio cost? 

Admissions and Prices for the center are as follows: 

- Open every day from 10 am to 10 pm, except on December 31, 2023, when it closes at 8 pm. 

- Admission includes the entire wellness experience, a robe, towel, slippers, and a reserved exclusive Aperiterme. 

- Pregnant women and children under 14 are not allowed. 

- Payment is made on-site, and a credit card is only required as a guarantee. 

Entrances include: 

1. Escape 5h (from 54€): A 5-hour spa session. 

2. Daily (from 62€): A spa session with no time limits. 

3. Evening (from 52€): A spa session starting from 5 pm. 

4. Relax under the stars (from 44€): A spa session starting from 7.30 pm. 

Additionally, there are spa entrance and massage packages: 

5. Couple Day Spa (from 212€): Daily spa entrance for 2 people and a couple minute massage. 

6. Day Spa 25 (from 106€): Daily spa entrance and a 25-minute massage. 

7. Day Spa 50 (from 152€): Daily spa entrance and a 50-minute massage. 

8. Day Spa 75 (from 194€): Daily spa entrance and a 75-minute massage. 

Check the official website for more updated info. It is highly reccomended to book your stay. 

Where to go to the thermal baths in Bormio? 

Bormio Terme Spa, the communal thermal baths in the city center 

Apart from Bagni Vecchi Spa and Bagni Nuovi Spa there are other thermal baths to try in Bormio:  

Bormio Terme Spa: Bormio Terme Spa offers a diverse experience, combining therapy, relaxation, and fun for all visitors. You can relax in thermal hot tubs, a U-shaped pool with varying temperatures, and mineral-rich mud baths, while kids can enjoy indoor pools and water slides. For the ultimate relaxation, there's inhalation therapy using healing thermal water particles. 

Pliniana Hot Springs: Named after Pliny the Elder, who wrote about them in his chronicles, it can be reached from Bagni Nuovi through a scenic trail. 

San Martino Hot Springs: San Martino Hot Springs consists of three sections with varying water temperatures: heaven, purgatory, and hell, with the temperature increasing as you get closer to the source. The water gushes from the ground at a scorching 40 degrees Celsius and flows into pools at a rate of approximately 250 liters per minute. To access these hot springs, you must traverse a 50-meter dark underground tunnel located in Bagni Vecchi, which extends into the dolomitic limestone of Monte Braulio. 

San Carlo Hot Springs: San Carlo Hot Springs, formerly known as the "source of the eyes," has been used since Roman times to treat conjunctivitis. Even today, the water is used for this purpose, as well as for drinking, although it's unfiltered. The spring's water is relatively cool, with an average temperature ranging from 18 to 19 degrees Celsius, making it the coolest among the Bormio springs.

What to do in Bormio besides the thermal baths? Discover our houses in the nearby ski and shopping haven of Livigno.