After months of photographing 6–7 sessions per week during high season, I knew I needed a true pause. So I returned to Thermae 2000 in Valkenburg, one of The Netherlands’ largest wellness resorts, and it was exactly what I needed. This was my second visit, and I am already planning the next one.
What is Thermae 2000?
Thermae 2000 is a 60,000 m² wellness resort on top of the Cauberg hill in South Limburg. It is famous for its indoor and outdoor thermal baths, filled with mineral-rich spring water, and a wide variety of wellness options. The resort includes:
- 13 different saunas and steam baths
- Panoramic saunas with views of the hills
- Whirlpools, relaxation rooms, and nap areas
- Treatments such as massages, scrubs, and Ayurvedic therapies
Understanding the Calendar
Before visiting, it helps to know that Thermae 2000 has a calendar that indicates the type of day:
- Swimsuit days: Swimsuits are required everywhere.
- Regular days: Swimsuits in the pools, but the sauna area is without swimsuits.
- Naked days: No swimsuits at all.
This may feel unusual if you have not experienced European sauna culture before, but it is very natural here and part of the wellness tradition.
What to Bring (or Not Bring)
The good news is you do not need to worry about packing much. Thermae 2000 provides towels, bathrobes, and slippers when booking a stay, so you can just arrive and relax. Inside, phones and laptops are not allowed, which makes it much easier to disconnect. This is why I am not adding pictures of the place to this post.
Day Visit or Overnight Stay?
Many people visit Thermae 2000 for the day, and that is definitely possible. But from my own experience, I believe the best way to enjoy it is with a 3-day, 2-night stay. With more time, you can:
- Try different saunas at your own pace
- Enjoy scrubs in the steam baths
- Move between hot and cold baths without rushing
- Take long naps in the relaxation areas
- Book treatments such as massages or facials
During our stay, we felt like kids again, moving from one pool to the next, chasing whirlpools, and discovering new rituals. Most of all, we rested deeply.
Why I Recommend It
Holidays can look very different. Some are filled with sightseeing and adventure, while others, like this one, are about slowing down and recharging. If you ever need a full reset in The Netherlands, Thermae 2000 is one of the best places to start.
Until the next adventure, with more stories from The Netherlands.
Joanna, your photographer in Amsterdam
