The Baths Natural Hot Springs

## Overview The Baths Natural Hot Springs is a historic self-catering resort nestled in the scenic Olifants River Valley near Citrusdal, a small rural town of around 5,000 inhabitants in South Africa's Western Cape province. Founded in 1739, the resort is one of the oldest hot spring destinations in the region, and its stunning Victorian-style stone buildings speak to centuries of continuous use and appreciation of these thermal waters. The natural hot water springs emerge at a temperature of approximately 43°C (109°F), feeding a selection of hot mineral baths as well as both hot and cold outdoor pools. The resort is set in an ecologically sensitive area, and to protect the surrounding environment, a maximum of 220 visitors are permitted on-site at any given time. ## Directions The Baths Natural Hot Springs is located in the Olifants River Valley outside Citrusdal, Western Cape, South Africa. 1. From Cape Town, take the N1 northbound, then join the N7 toward Citrusdal. 2. Follow the N7 for approximately 170 km until you reach the town of Citrusdal. 3. In Citrusdal, look for signs directing you to "The Baths" — the resort is situated along a scenic road heading into the Olifants River Valley. 4. GPS coordinates: **-32.740764, 19.034961** — use these for precise navigation, as the final stretch can be easy to miss. 5. The road to the resort passes through beautiful mountain scenery. Allow extra time if you're unfamiliar with the area. ## What to Expect **Bathing & Pools:** Visitors can enjoy a range of bathing options, including natural hot mineral spring baths fed by the 43°C source water, as well as hot and cold outdoor swimming pools. The mineral-rich waters have drawn visitors for nearly three centuries and are historically valued for their soothing, restorative qualities. **Accommodation:** The resort offers 16 flats and 19 chalets, all with fully equipped kitchens and braai (barbecue) areas. For those who prefer the outdoors, there are 25 camping and caravan sites, each with electricity hookups and shared access to ablution (washing) facilities. Note that online bookings are currently only available for outside chalets, and weekend bookings require stays on both Friday and Saturday nights. **Day Visitors:** Day guests are welcome but must make a prior reservation before arriving. **Activities:** Beyond the baths themselves, the resort offers a tennis court, pool table, children's playground, mountain biking trails, and hiking trails through the surrounding valley. The area is also excellent for bird watching. On-site, you'll find a curios store and MacGregors Restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. **Rules & Etiquette:** Pets and music are not permitted on the property, in keeping with the resort's commitment to maintaining a peaceful, ecologically sensitive environment. **Setting:** The resort is quietly situated among dramatic mountain scenery and lush valley landscapes. The Victorian-era stone architecture adds a distinctive historic charm, making it a memorable destination for relaxation and nature lovers alike.