Sultaniye Spa

Sultaniye Thermal Baths is a spa located within the boundaries of the Muğla province, in the Köyceğiz district, on the southwestern shore of Köyceğiz Lake. It consists of thermal springs with high mineral content. Known for its natural hot water outlets and mud baths, the spa has historically been recognized as a thermal area used for health purposes.

^{Sultaniye Thermal Baths (}Köyceğiz Municipality⁾

Location and General Features

Sultaniye Thermal Baths is situated within the boundaries of the Köyceğiz district of Muğla province, on the southwestern shore of Köyceğiz Lake and at the foot of Ölemez Mountain.

Access to the area is possible by road as well as by boat across Köyceğiz Lake. In this regard, the spa is positioned to offer both land and water access.

The site is classified as a thermal tourism destination and includes facilities that provide day-use services as well as accommodation and relaxation options for visitors.

Historical Context

^{Sultaniye Thermal Baths (}Köyceğiz Municipality⁾

The use of Sultaniye Thermal Baths dates back to antiquity. It is recorded that the baths were used by the Kaunians around 100 BCE.

During the Roman period, the baths evolved beyond being a natural water source into a center for therapeutic treatment. It is stated that the site functioned as a health facility or hospital; the inscription found at its entrance, “No death may enter here in the name of the gods,” reflects the perceived healing properties of the site.^【1】

During the Byzantine period, construction around the baths increased and existing facilities were expanded. It is noted that accommodation structures were built near the baths and that their use became continuous. Some remains of these structures are said to lie submerged beneath the waters of Köyceğiz Lake today.

Sultaniye Thermal Baths, used by various civilizations throughout history, is regarded as a thermal area that has preserved its function to the present day thanks to the continuity of its natural resources.

Physical and Chemical Properties

The temperature of the thermal water at Sultaniye Thermal Baths is approximately 39 °C.^【2】 The water contains calcium chloride, calcium sulfate, calcium sulfide, and radon.

It is stated that Sultaniye Thermal Baths has the highest level of radioactivity among all spas in Türkiye.

The spa area features mineral-rich mud baths.

^{Sultaniye Thermal Baths (}Köyceğiz Municipality⁾

Usage and Therapeutic Applications

Sultaniye Thermal Baths is reported to be used in the treatment of rheumatic diseases, skin disorders, gynecological conditions, and certain metabolic disorders.^【3】 In addition to the thermal water, mud baths at the site are also in use.