A sparkling star shines through the Pirin region,
My Pirin, beloved,
beloved yet majestic
and you, Rila, lovely beauty, graceful beauty,
and you, Rhodopes, vast, nightingale forests green,
my mountains, high, covered with white snow!
It was not a dazzling star-star,
most notably was Pulse Therme – a thermal spa center,
with pools most spacious and endless,
filled with mineral water,
healthy and clearest,
gracious and hot, gushing from Banya's springs,
with numerous thermal zones,
so many and varied,
countless and countless,
invisible, yet healing,
with wonderful wellness areas,
curative, medicinal,
healing, most soothing,
soothing yet invigorating!
I was a dear guest at this SPA oasis - wellness center!
I tried its healing zones and I was so fascinated!
I experienced its healing caresses on myself and sighed deeply with delight!
My dear friends, even now, writing these lines and closing my eyes, I mentally transport myself again to this spa oasis of tranquility, once again pass the warm link connecting the Grand Hotel Therme and the Pulse Therme, expecting something impressive, something unexpected, something, which only Grand Hotel Therme can offer its guests!
What was waiting for me at the end of this corridor?
What spa delights did I witness?
What delightful surprises have the hosts of this charming place prepared for each of their guests?
I will now tell you all this in detail! With wonderful photo moments, I will illustrate my story and I will weave remarkable videos into it, so that my story will completely absorb you!
So... let me begin my story, and you take the most comfortable reading position and immerse yourself in my story.
Dear friends, this is the amazing Grand Hotel Therme, located in the village of Banya, Razlozhko, just 7 minutes (by car) northeast of Bansko, which you already know well from my post last year - Grand Hotel Therme - top SPA luxury between three mountains, which I presented to you in the summer of 2023.
This year, at the beginning of the month of April, this beloved partner of ours once again extended an invitation to us and my family and I were once again All inclusive guests of this remarkable place, for five impressive days the Grand Hotel Therme immersed us completely in its perfectly enchanting Spa surprises that, day after day, seemed to have no end!
Meanwhile, in the few months since our previous visit here, the Grand Hotel Therme had opened its new and ultra-modern Pulse Therme Wellness and Spa Thermal Center, spread over an incredible 6,000 square meters of space, and my wife and children were buzzing with anticipation. let's try it all out!
Therefore, dear friends, the focus of this post of mine will be precisely on the new Pulse Therme wellness and spa area - such a pleasant surprise for me, for my family and for all of you - the future guests of the remarkable Grand Hotel Therme.
We checked in quickly, smoothly and with a smile, settled into the spacious and so sunny rooms, gazed at the snow-capped teeth of Pirin, breathing in the beautiful and clean mountain air, standing on the vast terraces, supported ourselves in the amazing main restaurant, which again managed to pleasantly surprised us with exceptional, even perfect dishes and fresh drinks and after a short break we put on our white robes and rushed into our family exclusive spa experience!
I close my eyes again...
Here I am again in the middle of that wonderful warm connection connecting the Grand Hotel Therme and the newly built ultra-modern spa oasis of tranquility - Pulse Therme!
The start of the warm connection to the Pulse Therme is located immediately after the entrance to the Grand Hotel Therme spa, which is well known to you.
I think you should all be aware that the Pulse Therme Spa can also be visited by non-Grand Hotel Therme guests for a daily or half-day fee. So if you are in Banya, Bansko, Razlog and the surrounding area, you can easily come, buy a ticket and enjoy everything here.
Half day pass – this is a ticket with a validity of 4 hours and it is possible to enter only until 12:00
Day pass - this is an entry ticket valid until the end of the working day, regardless of when you enter
You should also know that the entrance for anyone holding said ticket is opposite the main entrance of the Grand Hotel Therme, you just don't enter the hotel but go down the spiral stairs opposite the sliding hotel door.
The working hours of the Pulse Therme spa center are the same as the Grand Hotel Therme spa area - from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. every day without interruption.
Just a few more steps...
Here I am at the door...
I reach forward, push the glass door open and set off on another magical spa adventure!
Looking up, I see the unique ceiling from which countless cylinders hang—probably hundreds, perhaps even thousands—shaped like the curves of the mountain ridges that surround this wondrous place on all sides.
The catchy beat of soft jazz wafts from everywhere around me. I take the rhythm by the hand and the three of us are already one - jazz rhythm, me and the wellness and spa center.
Wellness & SPA – the magic of water
Dear friends, do you know where the word spa comes from and what it means?
Sanitas Pro Aqua – This is the first and most ancient meaning. Latin is the origin and means health through water
Sauna Pool Area - as you can probably guess, the second meaning of the abbreviation in question is of English origin and generally refers to an area with a sauna and a pool
Spa – the small and cute Belgian town of the same name and located in the Wallonia region, in the very heart of the Ardennes (about 35 kilometers from Liège). Centuries-old green forests surround the Spa and from them breathe fresh mountain healthy air, but the real wealth is the waters. The town is world-famous for its numerous hot mineral springs, where for centuries people sought health, peace, beauty and relaxation. In Roman times, the place was known as Aquae Spadanae / Sepadonae (sometimes wrongly associated with the word spargere - to make noise, splash) because the waters gushing here are slightly carbonated and full of air bubbles.
Finally, let me summarize - over the centuries, near the places where hot mineral springs gushed, people created baths around which cities grew. Water healed, relieved pain, gave health, beauty, peace and washed away stress from the bodies.
The new and ultra-modern wellness and spa oasis of health Pulse Therme is fed with healing hot mineral water from its own thermal spring at a temperature of 58 degrees Celsius. The water has a proven healing effect, both for bathing - externally, and for drinking treatment - internally. The water from this spring helps lower high blood pressure and has a calming effect.
Probably the most characteristic quality of mineral water from the miraculous springs of Banya is its energization!
What does that mean? This means that after the various water treatments the effect is toning and stimulating, and not the usual relaxing one.
A similar effect of mineral water is found only in the world-famous alpine resort of St. Moritz - the heart of winter tourism in Switzerland, but there it has a much lower degree and flow rate.
The water is clear, colorless, thermal and with very pleasant drinking and tasting qualities.
As I saw for myself, mineral water has an extremely beneficial effect on the skin, making it softer.
An extremely detailed publication about the village of Banya and its many healing hot mineral springs, about the chemical composition of the water gushing here, about what diseases it helps and how to use it, I have collected and described in my detailed publication Banya, Razlozhko - the richest of a mineral springs village in Bulgaria, which awaits you here on my site "Photo Moments", and you just follow the links.
I invite you - take some time for yourself and take a dip in one of the pools with healing mineral water! This will free you from the stress and tension of the hectic everyday life.
It has been repeatedly proven that warm mineral water helps a person to relax, to have a full rest - physically and mentally, which is of great importance in today's tense and so high-speed and fast-paced world!
It is no coincidence that the first of all spa magic that guests have the pleasure of literally taking is the "Kneipp path".
Indoor Kneipp Therapy Pool "Kneipp Path" (14+)
Who is Mr. Kneipp and why does a trail bearing his name first greet us at this Pulse Therme wellness and spa oasis?
Well, I have researched everything for you in advance and now I will share it with you.
Mr. Sebastian Kneip is a German Catholic priest and one of the founders of the naturopathic movement. It is most commonly associated with the Kneipp Cure form of hydrotherapy, the application of water through various methods, temperatures and pressures to achieve various therapeutic or healing effects.
Therefore, the first spa treat you will notice upon entering here is the Kneipp path.
Walking on the path, abundantly paved with small round river pebbles, prepares the body for the further wellness and spa adventure - blood circulation and exchange processes are stimulated and improved by sequentially passing first (and mandatory) through a warm and then through a cold bath.
I take off my robe, hang it on the hanger nearby, take off my flip-flops, and take the Kneipp path.
Stepping on the rounded river pebbles, combined with the impact of the water, has a reflex effect on the internal organs, optimizes the work of the immune system, massages the blood vessels of the lower limbs, improves the dew, increases the tone and the overall mood - the smile is already firmly on my face and I I feel cheerful, lively, fresh and in perfect condition.
And now I suggest that you also follow me - first in the warm bath, and then in the cold one!
The warm water, which is usually between 30°C and 34°C, serves to give a feeling of relaxation and well-being. A cold bath, maintained on average between 18°C and 20°C, is useful for toning and invigorating the body. Therefore, their alternation creates a thermal shock, which generally causes stimulation of the circulatory and immune systems.
Walking on the path, which should last at least 30 minutes, necessarily begins and ends, always with the warm bath.
As I have already told you, the river pebbles on the bottom exert an effective natural foot massage that saturates the tissues with oxygen, reducing the feeling of swelling and heaviness in the lower limbs, and in general it is quite fun, and in a special way, tickling my feet, it brought back the smile on my face where it belongs.
I'm ready for more spa adventures! Definitely!
I look around and almost immediately my attention is completely absorbed by the huge and impressive indoor mineral pool with a pleasant bubbling sound.
Indoor Wellness pool with mineral water (14+)
I hang my robe on a nearby hanger and slowly step into the water.
The temperature of the healing liquid is maintained at around 38°C - almost the heat of the human body and it really doesn't feel warm or cold - I feel it perfectly!
Opposite me are the huge picture windows, through which the unusually strong April sun pushes to join me in the water. Apparently he likes it here too.
On the periphery under the windows are shaped jacuzzi areas, which, believe me, will make you feel incomparably pleasant, truly comfortable; they will relax you pleasantly, massaging your muscles and toning your body.
At the bottom of the pool is a fantastic area for underwater jet massage and hydrotherapy.
Underwater jet massage is particularly suitable for post-traumatic conditions, muscle and tissue damage, blood circulation problems, sciatica, cerebral palsy, metabolic problems.
The massage effect on the body is provided by the nozzles embedded under the incredibly comfortable metal underwater sunbeds.
Underwater massage can be used effectively for therapy of the whole body or individual parts of it - for complete relaxation, weight loss, toning of the back, for heavy legs. The great advantage of this type of hydrotherapy is general physical recovery in case of severe muscle tension.
Underwater jet massage stimulates blood circulation and lymph circulation, thereby stimulating the metabolism and contributing to the overall detoxification of the body.
The therapy relieves stress, relaxes the muscles and has a direct effect on the lymphatic system. It also increases the body's immunity as a whole.
I stand in front of the panoramic window. Spring is already here - in Banya.
The newly arrived guests from Africa - the cheerful swallows, dart across the blue, welcoming the warm weather and the sun.
The tree outside has stretched its branches towards me and is kind of waving. I feel in my heart that he is smiling. Green leaves have sprouted on its branches, and the more impatient ones, spoiled by the unusually warm April weather, have already shown themselves.
Check out my new green makeover. - I feel like it.
I in turn smile at him, relaxing completely in the pleasant mineral water.
On the horizon, the westernmost outskirts of the Rhodopes impress with their beauty.
I take a deep breath - what a beauty! What a charm! What peace!
Opposite the large indoor Wellness pool is a smaller indoor pool, which features a rather interesting lighted ceiling, and I am slowly making my way to it now.
Indoor mineral pool with stars (14+)
Observing the interestingly placed multi-colored LED lights above the water, I personally named it, well, for myself - the pool under the spiral galaxy!
The numerous LED lights were like hundreds of fireflies, their flashes reflected in the water, creating magic! I shot them especially for you!
Just look at them glistening in the water!
On the periphery of the pool are also shaped jacuzzi areas, which, believe me, will make you feel incomparably good!
The temperature of the healing mineral water is maintained at around 38°C.
Opposite the indoor mineral pool with stars, an extensive relaxation area has been built with incredibly comfortable sunbeds, on which you can relax at any time, enjoying the rhythm of jazz and the gentle hand of your loved one.
Each sun lounger has an adjustable backrest and suggests serious relaxation.
Scandinavian relaxation area
Here you will find a 3D electric spa decorative fireplace and a row of relaxing sunbeds arranged in an arc.
The decorative fireplace even perfectly recreates the crackle of burning sticks and wood, and you just relax and stare into the flame. Don't think about anything, just indulge in complete relaxation.
The steam lights play on the walls and on the ceiling, the rhythm of jazz caresses my senses and I think of a sauna.
Several impressive saunas have been built on this level.
Steam bath with shock pool (14+)
Opposite the 3D fireplace is my favorite huge steam room with a shock pool.
Entering the room, the heat quickly enveloped my body.
I inhale and exhale slowly, letting the steam seep deep into every pore of my skin. When I've absorbed enough heat, I slide slowly into the cold shock pool.
Characteristics and effect of the steam bath with a shock pool on the human body:
It has an extremely relaxing effect on the body
Improves tone
Improves blood circulation
It brings incomparable relief after a hard workout or a tough week
Strengthens immunity
The contrast between the temperatures rejuvenates the skin and makes it supple and soft
Reduces cellulite
Soothes, invigorates, tones and rejuvenates
I feel like a different person! Somehow younger, more energetic, more alive and so healthy!
Treat yourself to this incredible experience in the new ultra-modern Pulse Therme wellness and spa area of the Grand Hotel Therme!
Experience the peace, feel the health, touch the beauty!
After the deep cooling, I head to the Finnish panoramic sauna.
Finnish panoramic sauna
Come on, come with me!
As you can see, the Finnish panoramic sauna is spacious and cozy.
I get on the third-highest row so I can breathe in the hottest air possible. I freeze without moving.
Minutes pass...
I feel even more energetic, cheerful, toned and full of energy.
But how is this possible?! Is it magic?!
While you are relaxing in the sauna, on the huge 65" display you will take a walk around Bansko, and you can also jump to the snowy slopes of Pirin.
Characteristics and effect of the Finnish panoramic sauna on the human body:
It has an extremely relaxing effect on the body
They burn 250 to 400 calories per minute
Sauna effect of detoxification of the body
Soothes and relaxes the muscles in the body
Improves blood circulation
Increases immunity
Soothes, invigorates, tones and rejuvenates
Aroma steam bath
As soon as I opened the door, the fresh eucalyptus air penetrated deep into my lungs, unclogged my sinuses and filled my head with euphoria!
Characteristics and effect of the aroma steam bath on the human body:
Humidity: Maintained at 100%
It has an extremely relaxing effect on the body
They burn 200 to 400 calories in 30 minutes
It has a restorative effect on the body
Increases oxygen flow to cells
Improves blood circulation
Soothes, invigorates, tones and rejuvenates
Predictably, I felt thirsty.
The mild water (blagata voda spring)
Right next to the steam bath with a shock pool, there is a wonderful place with rich healing water to drink.
The mild water - this is how the people of the village of Banya call one of their many mineral springs in Banya. They claim that it is particularly healing. It is located at the end of the village near the old Turkish bath. The people of Banen say that thanks to the water gushing from this mineral spring, they managed to heal both external wounds and internal diseases.
Locals are convinced that water helps even with infertility. It is said that it is healthy, has a pleasant taste and is very useful.
I also quenched my thirst with the most healing water of Banya village.
I felt surprisingly hungry.
I hasten to share with you all that Grand Hotel Therme's new ultra-modern Pulse Therme wellness and spa area has a truly impressive new restaurant called Aperi Therme and I now hasten to introduce it to you in the most appropriate way.
The wonderful Aperi Therme restaurant is located on the upper level of Grand Hotel Therme's new ultra modern Pulse Therme wellness and spa area and can be accessed in two ways and I will now show and tell about both.
One option is coming from the hot link connecting the Grand Hotel Therme and the Pulse Therme, immediately turn right on the stairs or take the elevator next to them.
Another option to access the Aperi Therme restaurant is to take the stairs near the Scandinavian relaxation area with the 3D decorative fireplace and the saunas that I have already told you about.
Whichever of the options you choose, you will reach the remarkable Aperi Therme restaurant and your hunger will inevitably be satisfied.
I open the door and enter.
Aperi Therme Restaurant
The Aperi Therme restaurant is definitely a special Drink & Taste corner in this ultra-modern spa center, where I can recharge my batteries during the day with a varied brunch menu specially prepared by the top chefs of the Grand Hotel Therme.
Space, luxury and beauty!
Amazing, indescribably pleasant atmosphere!
Rhythmic music, plenty of light, charm and coziness!
Countless culinary masterpieces, built and arranged like a parade await you here!
Wood and stone abound throughout the interior of the restaurant.
Everything is decorated and arranged with style and attention to detail.
To recreate in the most impressive way the perfect and unique atmosphere of the Aperi Therme restaurant, the refined and selected dishes and drinks that every guest of this remarkable place will have the pleasure of tasting, relaxing in the deepest delight in the comfortable and soft furniture, I captured strange photo moments for you and collected and arranged them in a special photo album for you!
And you, dear friends, follow the link and enjoy the Aperi Therme restaurant in a particularly unique way!
By pressing this button, you will be forwarded to a special photo album with unforgettable photo moments from the Aperi Therme restaurant.
When the evening comes, when the darkness falls, there is fun here! Every Friday and Saturday this place rocks with a live DJ party.
So the remarkable Aperi Therme restaurant, located on the second floor of this ultra-modern Pulse Therme wellness and spa center, has another unique feature that instantly became my favorite.
That's right, dear friends, this is the vast panoramic terrace overlooking the slender curves of the graceful Rila, covered with a white coat.
Incredible!
Especially when it gets dark and the crickets start chirping and the crackle of the fire gently sings to them. In the distance - somewhere on the horizon, it is dark, but the ridges of Rila sparkle in white!
It is beautiful and deeply etched in my heart!
That's right, dear friends, you are right to note that in addition to the Rila and the Rhodopes, the panoramic terrace of the Aperi Therme restaurant also has a wonderful view of the crown jewel of the Pulse Therme - the amazing huge outdoor mineral pool, which is also available for children, but for him I have dedicated a special place a little further in my post.
Suitably hungry, I head back to the restaurant, from where I embark on new, even more engrossing spa delights!
Leaving the Aperi Therme restaurant and taking a right, I find myself in a new and incredible world of calmness, beauty, an incomparably relaxing atmosphere, predisposing to only one thing - a complete and complete rest!
Space of comfort!
Wonderful, even wonderful, no - an immensely charming corner, woven of tranquility!
The incredible alpine relaxation area
I stand amazed, I stand amazed!
How could I even describe this?!
Space woven from delicate calmness! Amber tenderness!
Dear friends, this is the deeply impressive alpine relaxation area – a magical combination of healing water, unparalleled beauty, subdued light and relaxing silence!
I observe a second, centrally located 3D decorative fireplace, next to which ten lounge chairs arc curved.
The fireplace is centrally located in front of a huge steam room with a shock pool.
Incredibly soft, muted amber light fills the entire interior and creates a unique atmosphere for rest and relaxation.
Nine electric sun loungers with adjustable temperature are located in front of a high stone wall. I lay down on one and let the heat seep into my body along with the jazz beat.
I close my eyes...
Amber light gently soothes and invites sleep.
It's so relaxing...
It's so nice...
Stunning!
I decide to try out the large steam room with a shock pool. I reach out and open the glass door.
Her warmth and humidity surround me from all sides.
Steam bath with shock pool (14+)
It's so huge!
In the center of the room there is a beautiful cold pool.
Sit down. I let the humidity completely fill my lungs, exhaling deeply.
Little by little, the incredible heat in the room makes me seek the freshness of the cold shock pool.