Valais: return to basics

Want to get back to basics? Switzerland invites you to sample the benefits of its spa centres. We continue our articles on spa treatments, this time featuring the design-focused alternative.

The thermal baths of Vals: a unique design

Following renovation in 1996 by architect Peter Zumthor, the thermal baths of Vals became the first contemporary building in Switzerland to be declared a «protected building». Photos of the baths can be found all around the world. Inspired by the mountains, rocks and water, the architect was awarded the Carlsberg prize, the most important award in architecture, in 1998.

From the outside, this building set into the mountainside looks like a huge rock covered with stone slabs from the Vals quarry. Entering the building is like entering a cave. In these thermal baths, designed to enhance physical and psychological well-being, the benefits of water are combined with those of stone, especially in the fire and ice pools, the mineral bath, as well as in the various types of treatment ranging from massage to thalasso.

Add to this a design hotel and creative cuisine based on fresh, local produce… How could you resist?

Also read about: Lausanne city spa and Baden thermal baths