Therme Vals
Graubünden
7132 Thermal Baths, formerly known as Therme Vals, is a renowned spa complex located in Vals, Graubünden, Switzerland. Designed by the acclaimed architect Peter Zumthor and completed in 1996, the baths are celebrated for their unique architectural concept inspired by a stone quarry, featuring 60,000 quartzite slabs sourced locally. The structure consists of 15 table-like stone units with cantilevered concrete roofs, creating a harmonious interplay of heavy materials and light-filled gaps. The baths are partially embedded into the hillside, giving a cave-like atmosphere that blends naturally with the landscape. The thermal water, sourced from the St. Peter spring at a constant temperature of about 30°C, is highly mineralized and has been historically valued for its therapeutic properties. Originally part of a larger hotel complex dating back to the 1960s, the spa was developed to provide hydrotherapy facilities to the local community before evolving into a luxury resort. The design avoids typical leisure elements such as slides or whirlpools, focusing instead on a pure, contemplative bathing experience. The complex also includes accommodations redesigned by notable architects like Thom Mayne and Kengo Kuma, enhancing the site's prestige. This spa is not only a place for relaxation but also an architectural landmark recognized for its cultural and heritage significance.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, as access is exclusive to hotel guests and pre-reserved day visitors. The best time to visit is outside winter holidays to enjoy a quieter experience. Local residents benefit from discounted rates. Note that the spa emphasizes a serene atmosphere without typical water park attractions, so visitors seeking a tranquil retreat will appreciate this setting.
Interesting facts
- •The spa building uses 60,000 slabs of locally quarried Valser quartzite, each one meter long, arranged in a precise pattern to create its unique stone cladding.
- •The design concept mimics a stone quarry, with the baths appearing as if carved from the hillside, featuring grass roofs resembling archaeological foundations.
- •The mineral water used in the baths comes from the St. Peter spring, flowing at about 350 liters per minute at a steady 30°C temperature.
- •The music video for Janet Jackson's song "Every Time" (1997) was filmed at the then-new Therme Vals.
- •The spa inspired the setting for the French graphic novel "Swimming in Darkness" by Lucas Harari, which follows a story revolving around the architecture and mystery of the baths.
History
The thermal springs of Vals have been known since at least the 17th century and were originally used for their healing properties.
The first spa and hotel complex was established in 1893, evolving through the 20th century with the development of mineral water bottling and hydrotherapy facilities.
In the 1960s, a large hotel complex was built to capitalize on the thermal springs.
After financial difficulties, the local community acquired the site and commissioned Peter Zumthor to design a new spa building, completed in 1996.
The baths gained protected heritage status in 1998.
In 2012, the complex was privatized and renamed 7132 Therme & Hotel, transitioning into a luxury resort.
This shift sparked debate about maintaining the original social purpose of the baths.
Place Guide
Main Bathing Halls1996
These are the core bathing areas designed to evoke the feeling of ancient quarries and caves, featuring intimate small spaces alternating with large meandering pools. The atmosphere is serene, with natural light filtering through glass gaps in the concrete roofs.
Stone Cladding and Architecture1996
The walls are clad with 60,000 quartzite slabs of three different heights that always sum to 15 cm, allowing a varied yet orderly facade that resembles an ashlar wall. This meticulous stonework is a hallmark of Zumthor's design.
Hotel Entrance and Suites2016
Redesigned in 2016 by Thom Mayne, the hotel entrance modernizes the complex, while top-floor suites were designed by Kengo Kuma, adding contemporary architectural elements to the site.
Contact
Phone: 058 713 20 00