In 1996 the newly renovated thermal baths of Vals opened their doors. The work was done by Peter Zumthor, who sought of a way to mix the natural surroundings to the baths. The bath walls are decorated with Valser Quartzite, that was extracted only 2 km from the thermes. 60’000 stone plates were used to renovate the thermes. Since its reopening the thermal baths modern and unique architecture has been attracting visitors from all over the world.
Finally it is our turn! We begin by entering a dark tunnel that leads to the reception located underground. You then continue through a set of glass doors towards changing rooms. And what changing rooms! Sleek, red lackered lockers and changing rooms that close off with a dark black leather curtain. Then it’s off to the showers. You may choose the order of the pools yourself : 14, 33, 35, 36 or 42 Degree pools, a hammam with its 3 different temperatured chambers as well as 2 relaxing rooms with deck chairs.
The inside pools are open to all sides to let in as much natural light as possible through the floor to ceiling windows. In each pool there are water jets that massage differnt parts of your body, depending on where you stand. Next is the unique 35 Degree pool. You enter the pool and go around a corner to find yourself in a closed chamber. It is a square room with a very high ceiling and natural music playing (such as droplets of water, etc). Here the underwater spotlights light up the pool. It is a very nice feeling being totally surrounded by quartzite stone and calming music, one could stay far too long.
Next we are off to the 36 Degree pool that begins indoors, but ends up outdoors. Winter is surely the best time of year to come and enjoy this pool. You can relax in the hot water looking at the cold snow lying around you… There are 3 big water fountains used to massage your head and shoulders. 2 courageous men roll themselves in a patch of snow before going back to the hot water. I am not at all tempted to do the same! The last bath we visit is the one indicating 42 Degrees. Just after a 36 Degree bath it seems bearable. But no, I can only stand it for a few minutes, I feel as if I am boiling up… Then we move on to the 3 different hamman roooms. It feels good to lie or sit on the hot stone and breathe in the eucalyptus steam. I only make it to the 2nd of 3 chambers, again it is too hot for me. To end the visit we find 2 wooden Peter Zumthor designed deck chairs in a closed room to relax in. This room is quite special, as every chair has its own window to let in the sunlight and with a view of the surrounding mountains.
It was indeed a very relaxing visit and weekend to the Vals thermal baths. I would recommend it to anyone who loves modern, quiet places and would like to mix it with the experience of a unique thermal bath!
http://www.therme-vals.ch
