Fontaine chaude, Hot spring fountain in central Dax, France
Fontaine chaude is a neoclassical fountain in Dax that releases 2.4 million liters of mineral water daily at a constant 64 degrees Celsius (147 degrees Fahrenheit). The water flows through lion-head spouts and serves as the central water source for the town's thermal facilities.
The fountain was built between 1814 and 1818 during the reign of Louis XVIII. It stands on the site of ancient Roman thermal baths that were originally used for cooking and healing purposes.
The fountain embodies the thermal heritage of Dax, where locals and visitors experience the connection between hot water and therapeutic mud treatments. You can see this tradition alive in how people gather here to access the waters that feed the town's wellness practices.
The fountain is located near the tourist office and connects to multiple bus lines and regional train services. Its central location makes it easy to reach for anyone visiting the thermal treatment facilities.
The hot water from the fountain nurtures specific algae formations that contribute to producing Terdax, a natural therapeutic treatment registered as medicine. This rare algae develops only in the unique conditions of Dax's thermal waters.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
