Concept for the Alba Thermal Springs and Spa.
No Dip in Sight for emerging Bathing Industry With self-care and reconnecting with nature becoming the focus for many, Victoria is leading the surge in Australia’s geothermal spa tourism. Gwen Luscombe looks at the growing trend and support for wellness and bathing tourism and why Victoria is leading the way his year, on World Bathing Day (22nd June), Alba Thermal Springs & Spa announced their winter 2022 public opening T on the Victorian Mornington Peninsula to offer contemporary bathing experiences and spa treatments. The expansive 15-hectare space is set to offer a wide selection of indoor, open-air, and outdoor treatment rooms and bathing pools. Alba General Manager Craig Dodd explains “we’re excited to be creating a luxury spa and thermal bathing destination on the Mornington Peninsula. Peninsula Hot Springs.
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“The Peninsula is the ideal location - close to Melbourne for people wanting to take time out of their schedule, leave their phone at home and recalibrate. The Peninsula also has plenty to offer people wanting to stay a little longer and immerse themselves in its natural beauty.” Partnering with architects Hayball and landscape architects Mala Studio, Alba Thermal Springs & Spa has committed to respecting the natural environment with low-impact development offering luxurious spa and bathing experiences, some of which can be booked privately. In addition to thermal springs, exclusive spa, health and wellness treatments will also be part of the offering. Alba Thermal Springs & Spa is just one of a cluster of new bathing facilities slated for Victoria over the next few years. After a year when so many have experienced lengthy lockdown periods, increased awareness of mental health and wellbeing and a rise in regional tourism, Victoria has become the epicentre of investment in new offerings in the wellness tourism and bathing niche. Also on the Mornington Peninsula, Peninsula Hot Springs recently underwent a $13 million expansion inclusive of additional pools, a ‘fire and ice experience’, a new cafe, private igloo-style retreats and a luxury glamping experience for the half-million plus bathers it hosts annually. It’s all part of a growing trend of wellness tourism says Matt Sykes, author of a blueprint for the emerging hot springs and bathing tourism strategy in Victoria, The Victorian Bathing Trail.
