Discover the magic of AQUA DOME, Austria’s Alpine Thermal Spa

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Austria’s AQUA DOME is a wellness haven where every detail is designed to rejuvenate. From gourmet dining to invigorating spa treatments, fitness classes to soothing saunas, this world-class resort offers a holistic escape. After my visit, I felt refreshed, relaxed and ready to take on the world. It is the perfect destination for those seeking a true sanctuary of serenity.

Despite its early 2000s origins, AQUA DOME remains a beacon of modern luxury. Chic architecture, thoughtful design, and recent renovations, like the lobby restaurant, have ensured it stays at the forefront of hospitality. The expansive hotel lobby bar and restaurant are a testament to the property’s ongoing commitment to excellence. The elegant lounges and open floorplans create a serene ambiance, while the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning mountain views. The tempting buffet and a la carte options showcase the best of local cuisine, making every meal a memorable experience. Bussing robots whizz about the dining room floor returning dishes to the kitchen, allowing for servers to be closer and more attentive to guests during mealtimes.

Stone, wood, glass and fabric accents can be found throughout the property, leaning into the natural aesthetic and subtly immersing guests in an elemental visual experience. Harkening to the surrounding nature, everything from firepit lounges to artful hallways let your tensions ease and stress reduction start to set in.

The hotel rooms at AQUA DOME are spacious and comfortable, all of which have balconies and outfitted with the comfy Austrian duvet bedding. Double rooms are 115 square feet with The Junior Suites at 213 square feet, with sitting areas and optionally offer a fireplace. Large bathrooms are equipped with totes for taking towels to the pools and saunas, bathrobes and slippers are available through the hotel. JustLuxe insider tip: ask for an oversized robe at the front desk for and even more opulent envelopment.

During the winter, AQUA DOME offers ski gear rental and e-bikes during the summer. A subterranean daytime wardrobe is a perfect spot to change out of ski clothes or bike attire to head to the spa. A tunnel connecting the hotel to the thermal pools and saunas is an ideal moment to take a few breaths and unwind as you move into the AQUA DOME domain.

The signature thermal spas are a great place to literally dip your toe into the experience; indoor and outdoor pools of various temperatures are popular options for both hotel guests and locals alike. While I attended AQUA DOME in early September, there was light snowfall, which was an invigorating and enchanting swim to be in the outdoor warm pools while fluffy flakes fell from the sky. There are 12 indoor and outdoor pools to explore on property, each with its own unique character.

It should be noted that photography is prohibited at AQUA DOME with the exception of a few designated areas defined with signage. I not only appreciated the destination’s thoughtfulness for privacy of guests, but noticed people were connecting more with one another while not endlessly on their phones.

The fitness center is located next to the spa, where classes are available daily. Yoga, guided meditation, and strength training are all offered. Spa appointments should be made in advance and everything from signature treatments to standard massages and facials are available. A hairdresser is also on property. Thermal Deep is the exclusive beauty line which is only available at AQUA DOME. It includes a range of products such as body lotions, face masks, and body oils—all are enriched with thermal water from theLängenfeld thermal spring, sourced from a depth of over 6,000 feet.

Sauna World is home to 11 saunas of various heats and themes. My favorite was a barn sauna; a little cooler, with a haystack in the center of the room and charming beams and a roof over the top. The larger two-tiered Loft Sauna was warmer and also fantastic. An adults-only side of the resort, it should also be noted that this area is no clothing allowed. Due to the oils of the skin and fabrics which can ruin the cedarwood in the saunas, as well as cross-contaminations of minerals carried via swimsuit from spa location to location, the European way of soaking up the heat is in the nude. While this may be daunting to some tourists, my suggestion is to embrace the practice and appreciate the experience. Showering before each offering is a must, and sitting on the towel entirely (with no skin touching the wooden planks) is also a rule. Sauna masters are also scheduled throughout the day for infusion experiences in the saunas, whipping hot air around with towels and scented air, much to guests’ delight.  

For an immersive experience, head upstairs to the Waterfall; a 30-foot cavern with acoustic effects of a thunderstorm and rain, waterfall and mist to accentuate it. After the invigorating waterfall experience, a warm grotto is just around the corner for a soothing soak lined with glowing Himalayan sea salt.

Spa 3000, only offered to hotel guests, is also a textile-free area. My absolute favorite offering was the Hamman-style mineral bath.  Upon entering, guests use an attached hose to water down the tiled seat and soak in the steamy heat of the room. A quick step outside to a salt-scrub over the skin and then back into the heat. After courteously hosing off their seating area, guests then step into a warm-cold-and-hot series of mineral-infused waterfall-style showers. Thankfully, a video explaining how to enjoy this experience is step-by-step nearby. Additional Spa 3000 opportunities that keep guests coming back for more include a tranquil soaking pool, gently swinging hammocks in a Himalayan sea salt relaxation room, more saunas (of course), and an upstairs panoramic lounge with café and bar to sit fireside or take a nap, finish a book, or take in the Austrian mountain views.

Home to approximately 3,000 square feet of meeting space, the property has a large seminar area, which can accommodate up to 800 people for events and meetings.

AQUA DOME is a property I won’t soon forget, and I look forward to returning to. The outgoing staff, beautiful interiors, relaxing facilities and stunning setting have guests clamoring to unwind at this incredible property. For rates and reservations, visit www.aqua-dome.at/en/

 

Chad Chisholm

The incredible AQUA DOME located in The Otztal, Austria. 

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The chic hotel lobby bar.

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Lounges are great spaces to relax in the evenings. 

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Local fare and wonderful buffet options from cheese lockers to vegas desserts, local produce to delicious meats. 

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Sample the local fare at AQUA DOME.

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Dining rooms abound on property. 

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Junior Suites have the option of a cozy fireplace. 

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Double rooms are cheerful and luxurious. 

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Beautifully appointed bathrooms. 

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Start your aquatic adventure with one of the indoor pools at AQUA DOME.

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The outdoor pools all have their own character.

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Take in the alpine views year round. 

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The crisp alpine air is a perfect contrast to the hot saunas and pools. 

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Spa 3000 is only available to hotel guests. 

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This tranquil pool is in the heart of Spa 3000. 

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My favorite experience, the mineral bath is absolutely a must-try. 

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Relax and enjoy a weightless and carefree swing in this room. 

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Saunas abound at AQUA DOME.

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So many options for relaxation at AQUA DOME.

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A view from one of the Spa 3000 sauna spaces. 

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Grab a robe, cuddle up with a book, and enjoy these private spaces to relax. 

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Meeting space at AQUA DOME.