Spas and Health Resorts in Hesse on the Upswing: Evening Openings Fueling Recovery
After enduring several years of turmoil, Hesse's spa and health resort industry is showing signs of recovery. With 8.5 million overnight stays recorded in 2022 and a projected 9.2 million overnight stays for the year, according to Almut Boller, Managing Director of the Hessian Spas Association, the sector is nearing pre-pandemic levels. Gross revenue, which dipped to just under 2 billion euros in 2019, is expected to surpass that figure once more this year.
Despite this promising outlook, financial difficulties may still lurk for hospitals with poor occupancy rates, warned Boller. However, the increased demand has provided local authorities with a boost to introduce innovative concepts and projects. One such project unveiled in Bad Nauheim is the new Sprudelhof thermal spa, which officially opened its doors to the public on Tuesday (19.12.)
Mayor Klaus Kreß of Bad Nauheim expressed his enthusiasm towards the new development, asserting, "We have all been eagerly awaiting today's happy day. With the new Sprudelhof Therme, we are entering a new era." The 47 million euro investment is set to close the gap left by the closure of the old thermal baths in 2015. The spa will attract around 300,000 visitors each year, offering amenities such as ten pools, a large sauna area, and an extensive water surface area.
The Swiss-owned company, Kannewischer Holding AG, will manage the new Sprudelhof thermal spa, emphasizing the use of Bad Nauheim brine in their facilities. This unique selling point sets the spa apart from its competitors, allowing it to appeal to tourists beyond the regional borders.
Enrichment Insights:
Expanding operating hours into the evening is not only beneficial for tourists but also for participating businesses. Extended services like evening massages, yoga classes, and meditation sessions can offer a leisurely, relaxing experience for visitors and boost revenue for the spas and health resorts.
Evening openings can also cater to community engagement by hosting events and workshops that attract both locals and tourists. These events contribute to a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere, benefiting local businesses and enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Additionally, evening openings provide a marked competitive advantage, distinguishing the spas and health resorts that offer these services from competitors with traditional operating hours. This differentiation can be crucial in a competitive tourism market like Hesse, drawing in visitors seeking a comprehensive and varied experience.
