Thermae Hotel Grimbergen

The gardens make this spa in the Brussels suburbs a distinctive visit, especially the wild swimming pond and the Aufgus experiences. I've been to many spas, and this one isn't spectacular otherwise. The African artwork and decorated sauna felt inappropriate, like cultural appropriation in this day and age. I hope they address it the next time they redecorate. A few tips: bring your own towel, bathrobe or extra towel, and slippers, since renting a towel and bathrobe costs €7. Take a large water bottle too. There are no water fountains, and tap water costs €2 per cup, though you can fill up in the bathrooms. Going at night may help you avoid the crowds. The open-plan changing rooms are mixed gender, with very few private ones, so it's not the place to go if you're shy. Check the day's aufgus schedule to see when and where to go.

I’ve been coming here for twenty years and still leave happy every time. It’s clean, and people are considerate. I also like having separate areas for bathing suits and no bathing suits. The thermae are conveniently close to Brussels, parking is a real plus, and getting to the restaurant is easy.

The full-body massage was lovely, with attention to my face, head, and feet too. The spa itself feels calm and beautiful. I especially liked the nude area, and the large pond was great for a jump after the sauna.

I liked the range of saunas and the place to relax, and there’s plenty of parking, though finding a spot on public holidays may be another story. The pools felt tiny and crowded. At the small salt pool, there’s no guidance on the salinity or how long to stay, so if people spend 20-30 minutes there, others have to wait. I’m comparing it with therme I’ve visited in Germany, Romania, and France, and this wasn’t for me. It also doesn’t seem suitable for children: men and women change in the same area without cabins, and some people, especially men, walk around naked without concern.