Regional day trips, Brisbane

Artesian spa complex in the outback town of Mitchell on the Warrego Highway, with two outdoor pools fed by Great Artesian Basin water. One pool is kept hot for soaking and the other is cooler for those who prefer a milder dip. Day admission covers full-day use of both pools and the showers, and towels can be hired. There is a cafe on site.

Council-owned aquatic centre in central Moree built around naturally hot water from the Great Artesian Basin. Alongside lap and program pools there are artesian wellness baths for soaking, a waterslide and a kids splash park. Casual entry is charged per person with lower rates for locals, and memberships are sold. Open seven days, from 6am on weekdays.

Tiered natural hot springs on Ewamian Country in the Gulf Savannah, owned and run by the Ewamian people. Visitors join a 90-minute guided Hot Springs Discovery Tour of the spring terraces, finishing with a soak in a bathing pool. Tours usually leave reception at 8am, 10am, 2pm and 4pm daily during the operating season, with camping on site.

Chlorine-free contrast bathhouse on Bangalow Road in Byron Bay. A 90-minute session includes herbal tea, a pre-bathing body scrub, guidance on a bathing protocol, a warm pool, three infrared saunas set at 50, 60 and 70°C, a cold plunge pool and red light panels. Locals packs and a weekly membership are offered for Northern Rivers residents. Street parking only.

Caravan and leisure park on the Kennedy Highway between Ravenshoe and Mount Garnet, with thermal pools fed by a natural hot spring. Day visitors are welcome between 9am and 4pm and pay an entry fee at reception, with a day visitors area, hot plate and tables in the pool enclosure.

Outdoor hot artesian bore bath in the opal mining town of Lightning Ridge, run by Walgett Shire Council.

Contrast bathhouse in central Byron Bay with a Finnish sauna at 80 to 90°C, a 52°C steam room and a 38°C magnesium pool, plus two cold options: a plunge at 8 to 10°C and an ice plunge at 0 to 2°C. A casual two-hour session covers every hot and cold space, with towels included. Massage is available. Open seven days.