"Two-thirds water and one-third land; this is an awkward distribution, and I believe there is a good reason why we are endowed with more water" mused Sebastian Kneipp about our planet.
150 years ago his knowledge about the healing powers of water made him a wellness guru. Kneipp is well known especially for his water treading, which stimulates the cardio-vascular system.
If you are averse to cold water and prefer to soak in soothing hot springs, you'll enjoy Austria's thermal spas.
Also: several of Austria's lakes have, if not thermal water, water that has drinking water quality.
Here is a list of great thermal spas to ensure a relaxing stay in Austria:
Kneipp thermal spa of the Sisters of Mary of Carmel
At three Kneipp spas in Upper Austria, the sisterhood offers more than 140 different variations on classic Kneipp treatments, as well as special programs to relieve stress. De-stress massages, aromatic baths, and meditation are applied in order to keep burn-out at bay.
Alpentherme Gastein
One of the most modern thermal spas in the Alps, that offers a 360 degree Alpine panorama, geysers, an adventure dome with multimedia projections, and a sauna world with a mountain lake to cool off in. During the summer months, the spa is open until 1 am with live music and culinary hithlights.
Therme Laa
Located in Lower Austria on 60,000 m2, this thermal spa offers an all-around experience. WATSU, or water shiatsu, is a therapy designed to help relax as your body floats on the water, allowing physical, emotional, and mental blockages to be released.
Bad Waltersdorf
in Styria boasts a spaciously designed thermal and sauna complex as well as traditional Styrian medicine (TSM) programs. Centuries-old experience of healing powers of indigenous plants such as hay flower, pumpkin, and apple, is applied for our health based on the lastest findings. Try a soothing stone massage using a fragrant mix of honey and herbs.
Warmbad Villach
Located in Carinthia. Each day, more than 40 million liters of water flow from six springs to the various basins in the spa. While the spa also offers great fun activities you can also relax in the spa with algae, sea salt and caviar treatments.

The fact that you feel a good bit closer to the sky at the Hotel Krone, in the Vorarlberg town of Au, has to do with its location at a high vantage point in the middle of the Bregenzerwald. But you also feel as if you have found a bit of heaven when basking in the spectacular Sky Spa, high above the rooftops of the village, or enjoying the traditional hospitality of this 4-star hotel.
Learn more about Hotel Krone in Au