Relaxation and treatment at Baile Herculane spa resort

Baile Herculane spa resort, located on Cerna Valley, south-western Romania, is a place where the therapeutic properties of the mineral waters have been known and used ever since the Roman period. It is an area full of history and legends, where all forms of tourism can be combined successfully. Today we discover the attractions of this resort, but also its surroundings, together with Laura Pătru, a PR with the Pro Turism Herculane Association: "Băile Herculane is one of the oldest spa resorts in Europe, first mentioned by documents around the year 150. Its history goes back to Roman times. The resort has two historical periods that left their mark on it - the Roman period and the Austrian period. The architectural style of the buildings in Baile Herculane is proof of that. Baths dating back to Roman times are still functional today. The Romans are believed to have put Baile Herculane on the map, after discovering the miraculous properties of the waters here during their expansion campaigns, when they also treated their horses with the help of the waters there. Then, they understood the waters were very valuable, and the resort became famous in the empire, with several emperors of that time coming here for treatment. Another important period was the Austrian one. The buildings from that period can still be seen today. It is the place where the kings met, when the navigable channel on the Danube was opened. The resort has an impressive history."

If in the big cities the presence of negative ions in the air is 80 to 100 per cubic centimetre, in Baile Herculane the figure increases to 2,000. Ions are the ones that ensure a light sleep and balance the nervous system. Negative ions also stimulate metabolism and speed up healing. In the resort, tourists can benefit a wide range of therapeutic factors and procedures. The thermal sulphur bath is first on the list. In addition to that, herbal thermal baths, with plants, not chemical essences, are also very popular. Mint, hawthorn, calendula, acacia flowers, mouse tail and, last but not least, lavender are used.

Laura Pătru: “Thermal waters treat a variety of diseases, from dermatological to bone conditions, gynaecological conditions and, of course, due to the negative ionized air, central nervous system conditions. However, they are not recommended for children. Just as water acts on our mature bones and helps them, so it acts on their bones and can prevent them from growing. The resort also has entertainment options for the little ones, but not through spas. The high concentration of negative ions, makes the body feel the air there as if it were at an altitude of over 1,600 meters. The air in Băile Herculane is compared in terms of quality to that of the Swiss Alps, except that we are at a short distance from sea level, only about 100 meters. The air influences the nervous system and many of our guests come here for relaxation and to treat their insomnia."

If tourists are planning a longer stay, there is a rich trip offer to the attractions in the surrounding area, says Laura Pătru: "Every day, at Băile Herculane, one can visit something else and not get bored. Thus, for example, tourists can opt for one of the closest sights, the Danube Cauldrons, where they can see a spectacular sight: the face of Decebalus, carved in the rock. It is one of the most popular sights in the area. Those who want to test a different culture when they are with us can opt for a day trip to Serbia. It only takes half an hour to reach the neighbours across the border. It is a popular custom among our tourists to visit another country when they are here. They can take walks, have lunch and see the Danube from the other side as well. Also in the Danube area they can make boat trips. The Danube Gorge is famous for its unique landscape. The area is also suitable for ecumenical tourism, as there are many spectacular monasteries here. We also have some unique natural objectives in Romania, the Ochiul Beiului Lake being quite close. The mountain trails are also easily accessible for beginners. Tourists can visit Empress Sisi's Gazebo, which is also easily accessible, as well as the Outlaws' Grotto or the Steam Grotto, some natural monuments. If tourists choose to stay for ten days, every day they can see something spectacular."

Although it experienced a period of decline after 1989, Baile Herculane spa resort is now in continuous development, with more and more investors acknowledging its potential. Festivals, sports competitions or trade fairs are also welcoming visitors.

Laura Pătru: "On June 23-25 ​​we will have the first Yupi festival, the Festival of Joy, designed especially for families with children. We wanted something different for the resort. We will have seven fun zones at this festival so that every member of the family will find something they like to do there. The event takes place in the center of the resort, in the spectacular landscape of Cerna Valley, where guests can find a Zen relaxation area, can borrow a book from local bookstores and sit on a blanket to read on the green grass. There are workshops for children, where the little ones can have fun. We wanted it to be a festival of movement, a place where we can feel good in nature and, of course, taste some local goodies. Access to the festival is free. More information can be found on our Facebook page "Proturism Herculane", where we constantly update every new activity of the event.” (EE)