The NT's Best Thermal Springs

The Katherine region sits on an ancient geological system that pushes naturally heated water to the surface. The result: three extraordinary thermal swimming experiences that cost nothing and work year-round.

1. Katherine Hot Springs

Location: Right in Katherine town, 5 min from the main street Temperature: 32°C year-round Cost: Free Facilities: Toilets, change rooms, shade, grassy areas

Katherine Hot Springs is a series of palm-lined thermal pools fed by natural underground springs. The water is crystal clear and a constant 32°C — warm enough to be comfortable but cool enough to be refreshing in the Top End heat.

It's free, in-town, croc-monitored, and open year-round. After a day canoeing at Nitmiluk Gorge, this is where locals come to unwind.

2. Bitter Springs

Location: 8km from Mataranka (110km south of Katherine) Temperature: 34°C year-round Cost: Free Facilities: Change rooms, toilets

Bitter Springs is the NT's most underrated swimming experience. It's a thermal creek flowing at a perfect 34°C through a paperbark forest. The local secret: bring a pool noodle, enter at the top of the swimming area, and float downstream for 150 metres. Walk back up and do it again. And again.

The water is crystal clear, the forest canopy creates dappled light, and at sunset, thousands of flying foxes launch from the trees overhead.

Insider tip: Bitter Springs is 8km down the road from Mataranka's main springs and far more beautiful. Most tourists only know about the main pool.

3. Mataranka Hot Springs (Rainbow Springs)

Location: Mataranka Homestead, Mataranka Temperature: 34°C year-round Cost: Free Facilities: Full resort facilities nearby

The original famous thermal pool — a palm-fringed natural pool in a tropical setting. It's the one most people know about, and it's lovely. But after visiting Bitter Springs, most people agree the lazy river float is the superior experience.

The Perfect Day

• ●Morning: Drive from Katherine to Mataranka (1 hour)
• ●10am: Mataranka Hot Springs soak
• ●Midday: Bitter Springs lazy river float (spend 2 hours here)
• ●Afternoon: Drive back to Katherine
• ●5pm: Katherine Hot Springs sunset swim

Three thermal springs, three different experiences, zero dollars spent on entry.