Krabi: Onsen, Sauna & Steam Experience at Varana Hotel

If you’ve been dreaming of a tranquil escape in Krabi that combines natural beauty with soothing wellness treatments, the Onsen, Sauna & Steam Experience at Varana Hotel might just be your perfect day out. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve gathered plenty of insight from reviews and detailed descriptions to help you decide whether it’s worth your time.

What immediately appeals are the outdoor onsen dome, the chance to soak under the open sky, and the use of cutting-edge nanotechnology in the pools. Plus, the herbal steam rooms and salt sauna designed with organic herbs give it a genuine wellness edge. That said, it’s important to note this experience is best suited for those over 10, as it’s not recommended for children, pregnant women, or anyone with certain health issues.

This experience offers a wonderful blend of relaxation and health benefits, making it ideal for wellness-focused travelers or anyone wanting a peaceful break from busy sightseeing days. But bear in mind, it’s a short, one-day activity so it’s best paired with a broader Krabi itinerary.

Good To Know

• Unique outdoor onsen dome: Bathe under the sky and stars for a calming, natural experience.
• Therapeutic pools: Three pools at different temperatures, enhanced with nanotechnology oxygen bubbles for skin renewal.
• Herbal steam rooms: Improve immunity and relaxation with organic, herb-infused steam.
• Salt sauna benefits: Detoxify and rejuvenate your skin in the salt sauna with organic herbs.
• Location and accessibility: Just 15 minutes from Ao-Nang, within the award-winning Varana Hotel.
• Guest suitability: Best for adults and teens, not recommended for those with certain medical conditions or pregnant women.

You can check availability for your dates here:

First Impressions and Overall Feel

The experience at Varana Hotel begins with a simple check-in at the lobby—an easy process with friendly staff guiding you to the spa area. The highlight is the outdoor onsen dome, a futuristic-looking glass structure set amidst lush greenery, offering stunning views of the natural surroundings. It’s a peaceful setting that immediately sets the tone for relaxation.

The whole set-up feels thoughtfully designed. The pools are clearly the star attraction, with three options catering to different therapeutic needs. The hot pool at 42°C is perfect for loosening tight muscles after a long day, while the warm pool at 38°C offers gentle circulation benefits. For a quick wake-up, the cold plunge at 15°C provides an invigorating contrast—reviewers mention how refreshing it can be, especially after soaking in the warmer pools.

One reviewer noted that “bathing under the open sky and stars is such a calming experience—definitely a highlight.” The open-air setting, combined with the gentle sound of rustling leaves, makes this feel less like a spa and more like a nature retreat.

The Pools and Nanotechnology

The pools at Varana are not your typical hot springs. Thanks to advanced nanotechnology, they generate fine oxygen bubbles that deeply cleanse and nourish your skin. Guests have mentioned that their skin felt noticeably softer afterward, and the oxygen infusion adds a spa-like luxury that elevates the experience.

The temperature range allows for a beneficial contrast therapy, which many find helps with stress relief and muscle recovery. We loved the way the pools combined therapeutic warmth with the sensation of floating oxygen bubbles—an innovative touch that sets this apart.

Herbal Steam Rooms and Salt Sauna

Stepping into the herbal steam room, you’re enveloped in warm, aromatic steam infused with organic herbs grown on-site. Reviews highlight that these sessions help boost immunity and stimulate white blood cell production, making it a health-conscious feature as well as a relaxing one. The herbal infusion adds a layer of sensory pleasure—think gentle herbal aromas that linger long after you step out.

The salt sauna is another wellness boon, designed to detoxify and rejuvenate through skin absorption. The salt and herbs work together to draw out impurities, leaving you feeling refreshed. Guests have found that these treatments complement each other perfectly—steam for relaxation, sauna for detoxification.

Practical Details and Logistics

The entire experience lasts around a day, typically opening from 10:00 to 19:30. The process begins with registration at the hotel lobby—easy and straightforward. You’ll need to bring your swimwear, towel, sandals, and toiletries, with shower facilities available on-site for pre and post-treatment rinses.

Transportation-wise, the hotel is around 15 minutes from Ao-Nang, making it a convenient escape from the more bustling beaches and town areas. The experience is suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small groups, but note it’s recommended for those ages 10 and older. It’s not designed for children under 10, pregnant women, or anyone with heart conditions or recent surgeries.

Pricing is generally viewed as offering good value given the inclusions—access to three pools, herbal steam rooms, and the salt sauna, all in a serene outdoor setting. Reviewers often mention that it’s a relaxing way to spend a few hours without the hefty price tag associated with larger spa resorts.

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What Reviewers Say

One reviewer loved the “peaceful atmosphere” and appreciated how the nanotechnology pools made her skin feel rejuvenated. Another mentioned that, “the open-air setup under the stars was the perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring.” Many appreciated the friendly staff and the overall cleanliness of the facilities, describing it as a well-maintained, intimate experience.

A common note was that the experience suits those seeking tranquility rather than high-energy activities. Some suggested that it’s best paired with outdoor adventures like island hopping or jungle treks, making it a restorative pause.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for wellness seekers and relaxation lovers wanting to combine natural scenery with therapeutic treatments. It’s perfect for those who value the benefits of traditional saunas and modern skin treatments in a peaceful outdoor environment.

If you’re traveling as a couple or solo and seeking a quiet wellness retreat, you’ll find this a peaceful escape. However, it’s not suited for children under 10, pregnant women, or travelers with certain health concerns. The experience is best enjoyed as part of a broader Krabi itinerary, not as a standalone day.

The Sum Up

The Onsen, Sauna & Steam Experience at Varana Hotel offers a thoughtfully curated wellness escape that balances innovative technology with organic herbal treatments. With its outdoor onsen dome, multiple pools at different temperatures, and soothing herbal steam rooms, it provides a genuine chance to relax and reset amid natural surroundings.

For travelers craving a peaceful, health-focused break, this experience delivers good value and authentic relaxation in Krabi. While it’s not suitable for everyone—due to age and health restrictions—it’s a perfect choice for adults and teens who want to unwind in style and reconnect with nature.

If your idea of a vacation includes wellness, serenity, and a touch of luxury, this day trip could be a highlight of your Krabi adventure.

FAQ

Is the experience suitable for children?
No, it’s recommended for guests aged 10 years and older. Children under 10 are not permitted.

What should I bring?
You need to bring your own swimwear, towel, sandals, and toiletries. Shower facilities are available on-site.

How long does the experience last?
The experience is designed as a full day activity, with open hours from 10:00 to 19:30, but most guests spend a few relaxing hours enjoying the pools and treatments.

Is the experience accessible for people with health issues?
It’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, recent surgeries, or cold symptoms. Always check with your healthcare provider if you have concerns.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans are uncertain.

Where is the meeting point?
Meet at the lobby of Varana Hotel Krabi, located at 8.057167053222656, 98.75017547607422. The staff will escort you to the spa area.

Is this experience good value for money?
Considering access to multiple pools, herbal steam rooms, and the salt sauna in a tranquil outdoor setting, reviewers feel it offers good value—especially for a relaxing day in Krabi.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby