Fontana Resort in Bad Nieuweschans requires a drive from our home, but we're always eager for a break from the daily grind. As seasoned wellness enthusiasts, we jumped at the invitation for an overnight stay. Here's our firsthand account of this exceptional retreat.
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Twice a year, my partner Frank and I prioritize couple's time away from work stress and family demands. We unwind, reconnect, and indulge—typically with a sauna day or, occasionally, a full weekend getaway. Last week, we treated ourselves to an overnight at the Netherlands' oldest health resort: Fontana Nieuweschans.
Prefer to book directly? Head to the Fontana Resort website.
The exterior of Fontana Resort Bad Nieuweschans is understated, but step inside to the reception, and you're greeted by a spacious, welcoming lobby. The staff's warm hospitality sets the tone immediately.
Arriving later due to our motorcycle training session, we opted for dinner first, then explored. After checking in and dropping our bags in the comfortable hotel room, we headed to the restaurant.
This acclaimed spot earns its place in the Lekker Gids' top 500 restaurants—and it delivers. Alongside the wine list, a unique water menu caught our eye. Our server explained the restaurant's name: 'Waters of the World,' sourcing premium mineral waters globally. I savored a Scottish variant with dinner.
We lingered over a leisurely meal, starting with prosecco. My starter: marinated salmon with seaweed salad. Main: grilled tournedos, the most tender I've tasted. A thoughtful twist—you select vegetables first. Mine included caramelized beetroot, beetroot cream, chicory, onion quiche, and organic risotto. Dessert was divine, too! 😊
Excellent dining is non-negotiable for us at wellness spots, and Fontana excels. Now, let's dive into the facilities. Note: Photos, approved by management, were taken pre-opening for privacy—I rose early to capture them for you. 😊
Fontana divides into textile-free saunas and swimwear-required thermal baths. Flexible options let you choose: baths only, saunas only, or both via color-coded wristbands. Rates vary, but all include full-day access, lounges, and top-tier dining. It's expansive yet never crowded.
Two mineral-rich thermal pools (sourced from a 600m-deep well, diluted for optimal use) offer therapeutic benefits. At 36°C, the first eases muscles and joints with salt, magnesium, iodine, and bromide—ideal for pain relief, relaxation, and metabolism boost.
The newer 34°C pool overlooks the bathrobe park, with stunning design and a dramatic mega neck shower. The steam house delivers mineral-infused steam and shoulder cascades—pure bliss.
Sauna access requires the specific wristband, unlocking saunas, indoor pool, dedicated lounges, and dining. With limited time (late Friday arrival, Saturday 4pm departure), we prioritized favorites like outdoor saunas for that refreshing plunge.
Highlights: Panorama sauna (though bench style limits lying); large outdoor sauna with auto/manual infusions (a must for infusion fans). Ample lounges for napping—essential for true recovery. Sunbeds abound, enhancing the serene vibe.
We enjoyed the restaurant for dinner and breakfast, plus the sauna lodge for casual bites. The lodge's cozy nooks are perfect for relaxed snacking—think delectable tapas with impeccable presentation and flavor. (No food pics; we savored during peak hours.)
True to its name, wander in bathrobes from thermal areas or select rooms. Vast compared to other resorts, it features ponds, benches, hammocks, chess sets, and a chef's herb garden. A peaceful stroll awaits, though sauna access routes through baths to respect textile guests.
We indulged in a Thalasso ritual: algae cream massage, infrared blanket wrap for deep muscle relief, followed by reflexology. Despite the awkward wrap visuals, it's heavenly—I dozed off instantly! It melted away weeks of grief after losing my father, recharging us fully.
This expansive resort caters to all: saunas, baths, dining, treatments—spacious and spotless, never overwhelming. Seamless swimwear transitions; mineral access even in sauna-only. Food is outstanding; rooms comfortable.
At 2.5 hours from Groningen, overnights suit us best, but day visits beckon. Ideal for couples seeking recharge.
Have you visited? Share your thoughts below!
