As you know, the Aegean is famous for its thermal spring waters and magnificent sea, nature and historical riches. This week, we explore Balçova, the oldest thermal spring in the region.
Balçova is a district of Izmir and famous for its Agamemnon Thermal Springs. While staying and healing in Balçova’s spa hotels, you can also visit a large park located by the sea; or watch Izmir Bay from above.
Agamemnon Thermal Springs: The history of this spa, which is believed to be the world’s first hospital, dates back to the Trojan War. Rumour has it that the famous commander Agamemnon sent his soldiers to the spa area here to rest. Agamemnon, seeing his soldiers recovering quickly, announces that the water here is healing.
During the Eastern Roman Empire, a few hundred years after Christ, the hot springs remained neglected. After the Ottomans captured Izmir in 1415, the thermal springs were repaired and the region was revitalized.
Today, Agamemnon Thermal Springs is still a favourite place for those suffering from many diseases. It is known that thermal springs are good for various skin diseases, calcifications, soft tissue diseases, mechanical waist and neck diseases, orthopaedic disorders, muscle diseases, sports activities, some neurological diseases and respiratory diseases.
Agamemnon Thermal Springs
In addition to thermal pools, hotels in the Agamemnon Thermal Springs region also have facilities such as sauna, steam room, massage rooms, spa and gym. The most famous facility in the region is the Balçova Thermal Hotel. Its phone number is (0232) 215 06 41 and its address is Korutürk, 35330. It has an average service quality.
For a more luxurious option, check out Kaya Thermal Hotel. Their phone number is (0232) 238 51 51. Address is Ilıca Mah., Zeytin Sk. No:112, 35320 Narlıdere / Balçova.
Balçova Therapy Forest: A great forest with three different trails for a nice walk. There are degrees of trails you can walk depending on your conditions. Every path leads to a beautiful view. It is the easiest way to go to the First Monastery area. The road to the Second Monastery is of medium difficulty. You have to travel a long way to climb Behzat Tepe. You can follow which track you will go to and how with the phone application called Wikiloc. It is possible to reach the Therapy Forest by passing through the garden of Balçova Thermal Hotel. Its address is Tirazlı, 35130 Karabağlar/İzmir.
Balçova Teleferik (Balçova Telpher): Balçova Teleferik, one of the historical and touristic symbols of Izmir, has been serving the people of Izmir since 1974. It has an impressive view of the Izmir Bay on one side and a forest view on the other. If you want to barbecue, there is a market where you can buy all the ingredients and meat or a cafe where you can eat. Address: Bahçe Interacial, Balçova Teleferik, 35330 Balçova/İzmir.
İnciraltı Kent Ormanı (İnciraltı Park): İnciraltı Kent Ormanı, built by the sea, is a very beautiful park with an artificial lake, seating and walking areas. It is a park worth visiting with its oxygen-rich atmosphere, lush nature and magnificent views.
Balçova Telpher
If you wish, it is a relaxing place where you can have a picnic with your family, ride a bike, walk, and discover different types of trees and plants. Address Bahçe Interacial, Disabled People’s Office. İçi Yolu, 35330 Balçova/İzmir
Deniz Müzesi (Maritime Museum): Objects related to the social, historical and economic development of maritime are exhibited on three museum ships anchored at İnciraltı Pier. A tour of the museum takes approximately 45-60 minutes. Tours are carried out by museum staff. You can visit the Deniz Müzesi, which is closed on Mondays, between 09.00 – 19:00 on other days. Address: İnciraltı, Başak Sk., 35330 Balçova/İzmir.
Maritime Museum
If you do not limit your trip to Balçova and want to explore Izmir, you can find suggestions in the “Explore- Izmir” article on the Voices website. Enjoy the trip!