hot spring

This term refers specifically to geothermal phenomena. While often used interchangeably with "thermal bath," a hot spring is the natural source of the water, whereas a bath is the man-made structure designed for soaking.

In a travel or geological context, the term carries a connotation of wellness, relaxation, and natural beauty. It is frequently associated with volcanic activity or tectonic plate boundaries, making it a common term in geography and tourism brochures for regions like Iceland or Japan.