Thermal Pools & Red Water
The 58°C red thermal water of Karahayıt — rich in iron oxide and minerals, and at the centre of the local bathing tradition for centuries.
The Legendary Red Thermal Water of Karahayıt
Rising from deep underground at 58°C, our red thermal water owes its distinctive colour to a high iron-oxide content. The moment it meets the air, the iron minerals oxidise and lend the water its unique, warm crimson tone. This natural spring in Karahayıt has been part of the Anatolian thermal bathing tradition for thousands of years.
At Çelik Thermal Spa we channel this precious water straight from its source into our pools, without a single additive. Rich in calcium, magnesium, sulphur and bicarbonate, and gently alkaline (pH ~7.8–8.2), it wraps around your body and offers deep, restful relaxation.
- 58°C
- Source Temperature
- 7.8–8.2
- pH Value
- 24 hours
- Hot Water
The Water's Mineral Composition
The mineral content of the red thermal water determines its colour, its smell and how it feels. The components that define the source:
Iron Oxide
The mineral that gives the water its red colour. It oxidises on contact with air and stains the surrounding travertine the same shade.
Calcium
One of the dominant minerals in the region's thermal waters. When it precipitates, it is what builds travertine.
Magnesium
A mineral common in thermal waters and one of the components that determines the water's hardness.
Sulphur
The component behind the characteristic smell of thermal springs, and one indicator of how deep the source runs.
Bicarbonate
Gives the water its gently alkaline character and leaves a soft feel on the skin.
Gently Alkaline pH
A value of 7.8–8.2 keeps the water gently alkaline, so it never feels harsh on the skin.
What Happens in Thermal Water
Time spent in mineral-rich thermal water is three physical effects experienced at once.
The Heat
Warm water heats the surface of the body; the loosened muscles and the general sense of ease follow from that.
Mineral Contact
The water carries to the surface the minerals it dissolved underground. Their contact with the skin is what gives thermal water its distinctive feel.
Buoyancy
The water carries the body's weight; the load on the joints drops and movement becomes easier.
Why Guests Come
The red thermal water of Karahayıt has been part of the local bathing tradition for centuries. The occasions guests most often choose the thermal pools for:
Unwinding after a long journey
Warm water on a cold day
Letting go after a full day on your feet
A break before or after visiting Pamukkale
A quiet stretch of time away from screens
Time together as a family
Experiencing the Anatolian bathing tradition first-hand
Slowing down in the evening
A full day of rest alongside the hammam and a massage
Indoor and Outdoor Thermal Pools
In our indoor and outdoor thermal pools, meet the red thermal water at source temperature at any hour of the day.
Indoor Thermal Pool
Comfort in every season; heated indoor thermal pleasure all year round.
Outdoor Thermal Pool
An airy open-air thermal experience opening onto the Pamukkale view.
Children's Pool
A dedicated pool for our little guests — safe, shallow and at an ideal temperature.
24-Hour Hot Water
Uninterrupted thermal water at source temperature in our pools, day and night.
Get the Most From Your Thermal Bath
A few simple pointers for a comfortable, safe time in the thermal pools.
- Limit each thermal bathing session to 15–20 minutes and rest in between.
- Keep your body hydrated by drinking plenty of water before and after bathing.
- Avoid entering the thermal pool right after a meal or on a completely empty stomach.
- After bathing, take a lukewarm shower and rest while keeping your body warm.
- If you feel dizzy or unwell, leave the water immediately and rest.
- If you have a heart, blood-pressure or chronic condition, consult your doctor first.
Important Notice
Using the thermal pools is a form of rest and relaxation; it is not a substitute for medical treatment or professional advice. If you have an existing health condition, are pregnant, or live with a chronic illness, we strongly recommend consulting your doctor before using the thermal pools.
In the Warmth of the Red Thermal Water
Reserve your place now to experience the serenity of 58°C natural thermal water and the unrivalled atmosphere of Pamukkale together.