Banovci Natural Bathing Sites

Banovci is a village in the north of Slovenia, in the Pomurje region, close to the town of Veržej and the Mura river, in a flat, quiet landscape of fields and woods that is part of the area called Prlekija. The thermal spa here is one of the smaller and more rural ones of the region, and it draws its character from its setting. Instead of a large resort surrounded by hotels, the visitor finds a complex of pools in green surroundings, with the hot water coming from deep underground and a pace of life that is deliberately slow. The Natural Bathing Sites are the part of the spa that emphasises the water itself, in outdoor and indoor pools, with a natural feel.

The water has an unusual origin. Pomurje lies on the edge of the Pannonian basin, a vast depression that was once covered by a shallow inland sea, the Pannonian Sea, and the thermal water of the region comes from deep wells that tap aquifers within the old sea sediments, at depths of well over a kilometre. The water is heated by the earth's natural heat, rises at temperatures that make it suitable for bathing, and is rich in dissolved minerals. In Banovci, the spa describes its water as a natural treasure with a link to the former sea, and local tradition attributes benefits to it for rheumatic complaints and general wellbeing, though such claims are best treated as folk belief and checked with a doctor if you have a medical condition. What is certain is that soaking in warm mineral water is relaxing. The pool temperatures vary between pools, from comfortably warm to hotter, so you can choose.

Facilities include a number of indoor and outdoor pools of different temperature and character, with some for swimming, some for soaking and some for children, and a sauna world known as the Prleška savna, the Prlekija sauna, that offers heat and steam in a local style. Packages that combine entry with meals or accommodation are available, and there are reduced rates for certain groups such as pensioners, so check the current price list and opening hours before you go, as they change with the season. The spa is suited to families, and quiet time is easy to find outside the busiest weekends.

The area gives plenty of reasons to stay longer. Banovci Thermal Spa is the larger complex, Hotel Bioterme Mala Nedelja is another spa hotel nearby, the Island Of Love On The Mura River (Ižakovci) and Časar's Mill show the river landscape, the Fine Lušt Homestead presents local farming, and the Otter Centre AQUALUTRA in Križevci na Goričkem explains the region's wildlife. Razkrižje carries the Slovenia Green Destination Bronze Label, the Steirer Bridge (Mur Pedestrian Bridge) crosses into Austria, and Tasting Wines And Sparkling Wines In Gornja Radgona is a pleasant day trip.

It suits families, couples and anyone seeking a quiet soak.