On Wednesday, January 7th, 2026, the European Spas Association (ESPA) announced the release of a special publication in celebration of its 30th anniversary. This commemorative edition highlights the crucial role of Europe’s medical spas and climate-health resorts in promoting prevention, longevity, and sustainable wellbeing.
The publication emphasizes the significance of natural remedies, therapeutic landscapes, and evidence-based spa medicine as a unique strength in Europe, with increasing relevance for public health systems. Across the continent, medical spas are gaining recognition as complementary health infrastructures that support prevention, rehabilitation, and long-term quality of life.
According to Dr. Siyka Katsarova, President of ESPA and Advisor to the EU’s New Lifestyle Strategy, “Medical spas today are strategic health infrastructures supporting prevention, rehabilitation, and long-term wellbeing.” The publication showcases Europe’s exceptional therapeutic diversity, including thermal and mineral waters, climate therapy, thalassotherapy, and modern medical spa innovations. ESPA members offer a comprehensive range of services, including medical rehabilitation, physical activity, nutrition, mental health programs, stress reduction, and lifestyle interventions, integrated with traditional spa treatments.
Scientific evidence from across Europe highlights the positive impact of natural therapies in addressing chronic and lifestyle-related diseases, post-COVID rehabilitation, mental health disorders, cancer aftercare, cardiovascular rehabilitation, and preventive and longevity-focused programs. The publication positions spa medicine as a contributor to resilience, healthy aging, and sustainable healthcare.
Key Facts:
– Over 1,000 health resorts and clinics are part of the ESPA network.
– Around 25 million visitors annually generate €50 billion in economic impact.
– Approximately 850,000 jobs are supported across Europe.
About ESPA:
Founded in 1995, the European Spas Association represents national spa and balneology organizations across Europe. ESPA promotes quality standards, innovation, and evidence-based spa medicine, strengthening Europe’s position as a global leader in natural health tourism and medical spa excellence. To access the European Spas magazine, visit https://europeanspas.eu.
For media inquiries, please contact office@europeanspas.eu.