Saunas, soaking and chess: Hungary's best spas - PHOTO

The Romans chanced upon Hungary's healing waters more than 2,000 years ago, but the Ottoman Turks really got things going in the 16th century, importing their social spa culture.While the word "spa" can conjure images of being pampered in a luxurious setting, in Hungary it's quite different.There's an emphasis on health and well being, so many of the facilities are more functional than plush.A few charge for towels, although the fee can be less than $2.That said, the natural beauty of the country's spas makes up for a certain clinical air.And admission prices, even for a full day, are often less than $15.Bathing and board gamesWhereas the French pop into their cafes for a coffee and a chat, Hungarians catch up with the latest gossip while having a soak.They can be seen playing chess in the warm waters of the huge Szechenyi complex in Budapest -- one of the biggest in Europe and one of the most beautiful.They're also taking advantage of the restorative properties in the thermal water.Szechenyi, Allatkerti korut 11, Budapest; +36 1 363 3210Salty soakingOne of Hungary's most unusual spas is the open-air complex at Egerszalok, about 80 miles (129 kilometers) east of BudapestIt's obvious why they've nicknamed it Salt Hill: centuries of mineral deposits left by flowing springs have turned the surrounding mounds white.Visitors can take a dip in these hot springs or use the 17 indoor and outdoor pools at the adjoining Saliris Resort.Just five miles away is the incredibly pretty town of Eger, which has a 16th-century Turkish bath and outdoor thermal pools.On offer is the heavy-handed pummeling of the Turkish massage experience, or a chance to relax and gaze at the ornate interior of bright mosaics.The outdoor pools are more boisterous, with plenty of play areas for kids.Egerszalok Spa, Forras ut 4, Egerszalok Hungary +36 36 688 500Salaris Resort, Forras ut 6, Egerszalok, Hungary; +36 36 688 600Eger Thermal Bath, 5 Frank Tivadar ut, Eger; +36 36 510 552(CNN)Bakudaily.az