Pure shores

Plan a trip to stunning Austria and enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits of its therapeutic waters

Water – it’s nature’s therapy and has the ability to both calm and energise us. The sight, sound and smell of it has been found to reduce stress and anxiety levels, lower heart and breathing rates and to boost creativity and general happiness.

So, as the world starts to slowly open up again and the thought of foreign travel begins to excite us once more, what better destination to plan a future trip to than the breathtaking vistas of Austria, famed for its rich mix of lakes, thermal springs and waterfalls – nature’s own therapy rooms.

FEEL THE WARMTH

With more than 40 thermal spas located throughout the country, much research has been carried out into the benefits of these naturally warm waters. Found to contain minerals and trace elements such as brine, sulphur, calcium, magnesium, iodine or selenium, thermal baths can only be recognised as such if they have their own spring and the water is at least 20°C (68°F).

“The thermal effect can be seen when we look at muscle relaxation,” says biologist Johanna Freidl, who has researched the benefits of different types of thermal water, adding that, “warmth enhances blood flow and relaxes the entire system.” She also discovered that the different types of water found benefited the body in different ways – sulphureous water strengthened the immune system, as did slightly radioactive water containing trace amounts of radon,

while brine baths were found to have a strong calming and relaxing effect.

MAKE A SPLASH

However, if you thrive on the freedom of wild swimming, then head to one of Austria’s stunning lakes. Some are refreshingly cool, such as Lake Achensee, originally created from melted glacial waters. Research has found that braving a chilly dip can reduce anxiety, stress and depression, while boosting alertness and endorphins. Meanwhile, many of Austria’s lakes are gloriously warm during the summer months – including Lake Millstätter See, which reaches temperatures of around 27°C – making them the ideal location to swim or splash about in amidst some of Europe’s most spectacular scenery.

FALL IN LOVE

And if you’re just not ready to fully submerge, then why not plan a trip to take in the health benefits provided by one of the country’s many waterfalls. “It’s in our blood to feel good when we’re in nature,” claims Johanna Freidl. “Life started out in nature, which is why we need it to relax and recharge – and to live healthy lives.”

Known as Inhalation Aerosol Therapy, waterfalls create microscopic droplets with a negative charge that stay in the air for longer than those with a positive charge. Inhaling these particles has been found to stimulate our immune systems and to cleanse our airways, while alleviating, or even eliminating, symptoms of allergies and asthma. “The particles are 200 times smaller than an asthma inhaler’s droplets and can penetrate the airways that much more deeply,” confirms Freidl, making the impressive Krimml Waterfalls in SalzburgerLand – the country’s most well known and highest waterfall, at 380 metres – a must-see on your bucket list.

So, whether you prefer to spend your time getting active and making a splash or simply soaking in the warm thermal waters, Austria has the ideal destination for you.

For more information, visit austria.info.