From nature to spa: These everyday elements are great for your wellbeing

Health and beauty trends come and go, but even the most innovative wellness procedures wouldn’t be possible without influence from Mother Nature. What makes this part of the world so unique is that many of the best treatment secrets are hiding in plain sight. Mineral springs nestled along the edge of forested valleys? Check. Thermal water bubbling up from deep underground in the middle of a serene park? Totally normal. Therapeutic mud with healing powers that date back centuries? You can find that here, too. 

Don’t just hop into any hot spring or slather some post-rainy-day mud across your face, though. It’s important to know how these earthly elements can be used, which is where the experts from Ensana hotels come in. 

Across Central Europe, many of these hotels and resorts sit right beside (or in some cases literally right on top of) naturally occurring treasures. If you’re ready for some earth-inspired rest and relaxation, their holiday gift vouchers offer an easy way to explore the region’s most iconic spa towns. Here’s how to country hop and try everything nature has to offer.

Czechia’s famous carbonated mineral water springs have helped define the region’s spa culture for generations. Mariánské Lázně is the perfect place to sample a wide variety, from fizzy to salty to naturally energy-boosting. 

These waters aren’t just refreshing, they are packed with minerals that support digestion, metabolism, and immunity. Wander through the parks and colonnades of this quaint UNESCO heritage town, and you’ll pass several iconic springs worth tasting. 

Want to relax in a mineral bath? Check in at Ensana Nové Lázně. The five-star property sits in the center of the action, making it an ideal base for a weekend getaway.

Mud therapy sounds messy, but in Hungary, it’s a tried-and-tested wellness staple. Budapest’s spa tradition includes mineral-rich mud pulled from thermal sediment, and it’s known for soothing joints and easing inflammation. 

“Natural, primarily plant-based medicinal mud is suitable for the treatment of rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases,” explains Viktor Marsalla, spa manager at Ensana Thermal Margaret Island.

Marsalla also notes that the mud wrap is especially recommended for back or shoulder pain, and after the treatment, movement typically becomes easier. Another perk is that during the winter season, the warm mud provides a particularly pleasant sensation, leaving the skin feeling “velvety soft.”

You can try both mud packs and mud-based treatments while soaking up that classic Budapest spa vibe on the city’s famous Margaret Island, leafy island park and stunning city views included. 

There’s a reason people build their entire weekend around a good thermal soak. These naturally warm, mineral-rich waters, originating from deep underground, will instantly boost circulation, loosen tight muscles, and relax your nerves. 

Tucked away in Slovakia’s lush Váh River valley, Piešťany is famous for this kind of geothermal comfort and historic spa tradition. Ensana Thermia Palace incorporates the power of nature into its design, with the hotel situated directly above one of the town’s famous hot springs. 

No matter what the temperature is outside, the property’s steamy outdoor pools and rejuvenating spa treatments will leave you feeling refreshed. Seidl also recommends mud treatments here too. “Piešťany mud is truly unique,” he explains. “We obtain it in a specific way and use it exclusively.”