Public baths, Munich

I am addicted to the saunas at Therme Erding in the outskirts of Munich! The spa is a true oasis with palm trees and clear, warm waters. You can choose to enjoy the water-park side only or also enjoy the saunas (in the clothing-optional area). In both areas you will find soaking pools, bubble loungers, steam rooms, cold/hot water therapies, jacuzzis, tanning areas, and restaurants. There is a water slide and lawn area outside for the summer months.

I think the highlight of the spa is the 'Sauna Paradise'. There are ten different saunas, many thermal pools, and cold saunas and plunges. Every hour in the large sauna an attendant changes the air with a new aroma. The attendant pours fragrant water on the sauna rocks and then whips the hot air around with a towel. It only lasts for about seven minutes, but what an intense experience!

For adults a day pass costs 16E and sauna use is 7E extra. There are also passes for 2 or 4 hours at a smaller cost.

Take the S6 train from Munich to Altenerding and follow the signs to the spa, about a ten minute walk. By car, take the B388 road.

Mullersches Volksbad can be translated as ýPeopleýs Baths by Mullerý, or something of this sort. Indeed, fully justifying its name it is Munichýs first public bath-house, donated to his fellow-citizens by wealthy engineer Karl Muller. Opened in year 1901, Mullersches Volksbad, unlike most similar buildings, has withstood time and is still standing in perfect condition. Already the approach to this building, richly decorated with Jugendstil elements and standing on the banks of the River Isar below the Gasteig Culture Centre is something to remember.

Not only is it still standing, Mullersches Volksbad can even give you a bathing experience in style, and even a steam bath should you wish for one.

Rosenheimer Strasse 1
S-Bahn: Isartor. Tram 18
Daily 7.30am-11pm