Discover a Hidden Gem in Virginia: Blue Ridge Beauty Meets Hot Springs and Local Charm

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Discover a Hidden Gem in Virginia: Blue Ridge Beauty Meets Hot Springs and Local Charm

For centuries, soaking in mineral hot springs has been a natural remedy for aching muscles and tired bones. The aptly named Bath County, Virginia, is steeped in this soaking tradition. For over 250 years, this rural corner of Virginia has been offering rest and recovery to visitors, including a long list of U.S. presidents. The area was named for its similarity to another famous hot springs area across the Atlantic, Bath, England, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s one of the best-preserved ancient Roman bath complexes in Europe. 



Virginia’s Bath County is truly immersed in nature. It’s 540 square miles are filled with national forests and state parks, so visitors who soak in the area’s rejuvenating waters will get a good dose of history and natural landscapes. You can get there in about four hours from Washington, D.C., or just an hour’s drive from Lexington, a college-filled mountain town with local flavors and outdoor adventure. Once you get off the main interstate highway, you may notice that some familiar sights are missing. There is no Starbucks in Bath County. No McDonald’s either. There isn’t even a stoplight in the entire county. All the better for visitors who truly want to disconnect and unwind.

What to see and do in Bath County

Round bathhouse with white walls in a grassy field with a small stream flowing in Bath County, Virginia



A good place to start an exploration of the area is Warm Springs. In fact, that’s what Thomas Jefferson did. Suffering from rheumatism in 1818, the third U.S. President came to Warm Springs, writing enthusiastically, “I have tried once to-day the delicious bath and shall do it twice a day hereafter” (via the Thomas Jefferson Foundation).

The bathing pools are now operated by the venerated Omni Homestead Resort. After a multi-million dollar upgrade to restore the historic bathhouses and octagonal stone basins, the Omni Homestead was recently named by USA Today and Time Magazine as one of the best destination resorts. You don’t have to stay in the resort to use the thermal baths, but reservations are essential. 

There are two bathhouses separated by gender. The Gentleman’s Bathhouse is 6 feet deep, and the Ladies’ Bathhouse has a depth of 5 feet. Both are fed by natural springs that bubble at a soothing 98 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. There are also special co-ed hours, and children can attend with a parent during the mornings.

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Where to stay and eat in Bath County

Lake Moomaw in Virginia with still water reflecting forest covered mountains on both sides

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.