7132 Therme (Therme Vals), Switzerland

Architectural Masterpiece Where Stone and Water Unite

Deep in the Swiss Alps, built directly over the ancient thermal springs of Vals, stands one of the world’s most architecturally significant spa buildings. Designed by Pritzker Prize laureate Peter Zumthor and opened in 1996, 7132 Therme has achieved heritage protection status, recognising its extraordinary contribution to contemporary architecture and wellness culture alike.

The building’s construction utilised 60,000 slabs of local Valser quartzite, each hand-placed to create walls that seem to emerge organically from the mountainside. Light enters through carefully positioned slots, casting ever-changing patterns across the water surfaces. The experience of moving through these spaces transcends ordinary spa visits, becoming instead a meditation on elemental relationships.

The thermal waters that supply the baths rise from deep beneath the earth at 30°C, carrying minerals accumulated over thousands of years of geological journey. Guests immerse themselves in indoor and outdoor pools, the water’s therapeutic properties working whilst the surrounding Alpine scenery provides visual nourishment for the soul.

Various chambers within the spa offer contrasting experiences: the Fire Bath maintains temperatures of 42°C, whilst the Ice Bath challenges with near-freezing water. The Flower Bath releases delicate aromas, and the Drinking Stone provides the thermal water for internal consumption.

Book: https://7132.com/en/therme/7132-thermal-baths-peter-zumthor/

Rating: Pritzker Prize Architecture, Heritage Protected Site.