Thermes du Teich: Thermal Baths in Ax-les-Thermes

The Thermes du Teich, located in the heart of Ax-les-Thermes, are a testament to the town's long-standing reputation as a premier spa destination in the Pyrenees. For centuries, visitors have flocked to Ax-les-Thermes to experience the naturally heated, mineral-rich waters that emerge from the depths of the granite massif beneath the town. The waters, characterized by their sodium sulfide nature and temperatures ranging from 43°C to 78°C, are among the warmest in the Pyrenees. The history of thermal bathing in Ax-les-Thermes dates back to Roman times, with the open-air 'Bassin des Ladres' serving as the center of thermal activity for at least 750 years. In 1801, Dr. Boulié, a surgeon in Ax, tapped into the thermal springs on his plot of land named “Teich”. He constructed basic baths and cabins, later building a large spa in 1834, complete with a wooded park featuring cascades and a kiosk. The Thermes du Teich are part of a network of thermal establishments in Ax-les-Thermes, each offering unique treatments and facilities. The waters of Ax-les-Thermes are known for their therapeutic properties, particularly in the treatment of rheumatism and respiratory ailments. The thermal waters are rich in silica, sodium, sulfur, and sulfuric acid, contributing to their healing effects. Visitors to the Thermes du Teich can immerse themselves in the soothing waters and experience the benefits of thermal therapy. The town itself offers a variety of leisure activities, including a casino, parks, and access to the Ax 3 Domaines ski resort. The nearby Le Teich park provides a serene setting for relaxation, shaded by hundred-year-old sequoias and featuring a sculpture created from a giant sequoia tree.