Kamchatka’s volcanic peninsula is home to many accessible hotsprings, some remain wild while some have been tamed and made into resorts complete with pools. Three spots for a hot soak come to mind when thinking about a visit to Kamchatka: Nalychevo Nature Park, Timonovsky hotsprings and Paratunka Valley.
Nalychevo Nature Park
Part of the Volcanoes of Kamchatka, Nalychevo Nature Park boosts three hot-spots in the center of its territory. While it requires a bit of effort – a hike in from Avacha Pass or Pinachevo village – the setting is spot-on for everything you might imagine a hard-to-get-to soak should be. Set in an expansive valley surrounded by mountain peaks, each hotspring has a hut to change in and a deck to sit on. Plus, steps away are numerous overnight cabins complete with fresh linens should you decide one soak is not enough.
Nalychevo Nature Park. Photo: A. Tereschenko
Nalychevo Nature Park. Photo: O. Stryukova
Timonovsky Hotsprings
Like Nalychevo’s hot spots, Timonovsky is for the adventurous and can be toured as celebratory finish (or start) to a multi-day backpack or by horseback. Part of the Timonovsky Natural Reserve, the springs are located in a similar natural setting as Nalychevo – forested slopes with river views. Near the hotsprings you’ll find a spot to pitch a tent or spend the night in one of the cabins built for overnight stays.
Paratunka Valley Hotspings
If you are short on time but wish to dedicate a day to soaking in the warm waters of Kamchatka, then Paratunka is for you. Located approximately 30 km from Petropavlovsk, this is the place locals favor – with an open-air swimming pools open year round, it’s close, it’s warm and it’s nice. There’s even a café on site to help you make the decision to spend the entire day lounging pool-side.
Bel-Kam-Tour in Paratunka has a pool with clean thermal water. Photo: JATM
Useful Links & Resources:
- Alaska – Russian Far East Flights: Direct, non-stop air service between Alaska and Kamchatka on Yakutia Airlines.
- Everything You Need to Know About Russian Visas.
- Check Kamchatka Travel Portal. It provides a wealth of information about many local activities, restaurants, hotels, and more.