Putting together a bucket list? Don’t forget to leave a few blank spaces for discoveries you will write in as you go. The Szechenyi Baths, in Budapest is just such a place. I had never heard of Szechenyi when we started planning our trip. Eighteen separate pools and hot tubs. Numerous steam baths and dry saunas, some with aromatherapy. Massage and other holistic medicinal therapies. A fun pool. All of this housed in a gorgeous, almost palace like, facility completed in 1913. The wow factor is huge.
People have been drawn to the natural hot springs around Budapest since the early bronze age. In fact the springs were what brought the Romans here in the 2nd century BC. With the spine warming tingle of naturally hot mineral water, it is easy to see why the Romans wanted to build their territorial capital here. The waters are invigorating, especially if you have joint problems like I do. Szechenyi is the oldest mineral bath located on the Pest side of the Danube. Since the water is hot, almost 170 degrees fahrenheit, the outdoor pools can be open all year. It is an unforgettable place and a most memorable day. Truly, one for the bucket list!
