Thermen Bad Nieuweschans

A few useful spots are just around the corner. Leave the parking lot, turn left and follow the curve: across from the house on your right is an adorable little store. A block to the left, around the corner, you’ll also find a grocery store, restaurants, a little BnB, a yoga studio, and a place to sit by the pond. I’m of two minds about the spa and hotel. It was nice not having to pay until afterward, but I found it hard to tell the hotel charge apart from the spa charge when they were combined. At times the place didn’t feel very welcoming. I’ve heard that’s normal in the north, though I did have a meaningful experience with my sauna-buddy and enjoyed the rest of my visit. The pictures show everyone in towels and bathrobes, but that definitely isn’t what people wear there in real life, so be prepared for that.

I went with friends today and had an amazing time. We didn’t realize it was a “naked” spa until we got there, but I honestly didn’t feel uncomfortable. Nobody seemed to be giving anyone looks, if you know what I mean. Everyone was minding their own business and having fun. I can see why this could be a big culture shock for many international visitors, having read some of the angry reviews. It wasn’t my first experience, so I didn’t get anxious. With the right people, I think it’s a really fun and relaxing time. The first few minutes feel awkward, then you remember we’re all people there doing the same thing :) Going without a swimsuit is much healthier in the saunas. I agree that the pool can feel a bit weird, though you also feel very free :)) For anyone going for the first time, I recommend visiting at night.

We’ve visited lots of times, as hotel guests and for day trips. The spa is much better since the two sections were joined. You no longer have to pass through a barrier and put on your dressing gown.

We spent two days and one night here, with a room and a package that included a three-course dinner and breakfast. There’s plenty of space, with lots of lockers and resting areas, and it never felt too crowded. I’d recommend staying here if you enjoy a range of saunas, genuinely hot saunas, and different spa pools. Drinks are on the pricey side, so be ready for that. Two things really bothered us, though. First, the ice pool is tiny, with room for only three people. Since it’s outdoors, it wasn’t actually cold on sunny days when lots of people were getting in and out. There are cold showers, but if you love an ice plunge after a blazing hot sauna, I wouldn’t recommend this place. The food was disappointing, mid at best for the price. Thuisbezorgd delivers in the area, so I’d try that instead of eating at the resort restaurants. That’s what we’ll do on our next visit.