Benefits
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Thermal Therapy
Heated basalt stones soften the muscles
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Deep Release
Heat and pressure combined
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Circulation
Warmth supports circulation
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Muscle Suppleness
Warmed muscles move more easily
About
Hot stone massage uses heated volcanic basalt stones both as massage tools and as a source of warmth. Thanks to its dense, smooth structure, basalt holds heat for a long time; as the warmth softens the muscles, your therapist's strokes reach deeper. The result is a deep relaxation that comes from warmth rather than pressure.
What happens during the session?
- Preparing the stones: The basalt stones are heated in water to around 50–55°C.
- Still placement: Stones are placed on specific points along the back; for a few minutes, the body softens in the warmth.
- Stone massage: On areas prepared with aromatic oil, your therapist holds smaller stones in their palms for long, flowing strokes over the back, shoulders, hips and legs.
- Closing: The stones are removed and the session ends with a warm towel and calm strokes, followed by herbal tea.
Over the 70-minute session the pressure stays medium; if the warmth ever feels too much, your therapist adjusts it straight away.
Who is it for?
It suits anyone who wants to warm up and unwind on a cold day, people who carry settled tension in the back and shoulders but do not enjoy strong pressure, and those looking for a long, unhurried spa experience. Its effect is felt most in autumn and winter.
When to be careful
- Pregnancy
- Diabetes or nerve damage that reduces sensitivity to heat (neuropathy)
- High blood pressure, a cardiovascular condition or blood-thinning medication
- Varicose veins, sunburn, or sensitive or irritated skin
- An injury or swelling from the last 48–72 hours (heat is not recommended at this stage)
Hot stone or another massage?
- Classic Swedish Massage: a shorter relaxation with flowing strokes given by hand alone, without heat.
- Deep Tissue Massage: reaches settled tension through slow, firm pressure rather than heat.
- Traditional Turkish Hammam: another heat ritual that begins on the warm navel stone and continues with kese and foam.
After your session
- Your body will be warm, so sit and rest for a few minutes and get up slowly.
- Drink water and avoid another heat treatment, such as a sauna, on the same day.
- Keep warm before heading out into cold weather.
About Hot Stone Massage
How hot are the stones, and can they burn?
The basalt stones are heated in water to around 50–55°C, which feels pleasantly and deeply warm on the skin. If the warmth feels too much, tell your therapist straight away and the stone will be moved or a towel placed underneath. If you have sensitive skin or a condition that reduces your sensitivity to heat, let us know before your appointment.
When is the best time of year for a hot stone massage?
It can be enjoyed all year round, but its effect is felt most in cold weather. In autumn and winter it is especially welcome, as it warms up and relaxes a chilled, tense body.
What is the difference between hot stone and classic massage?
Classic Swedish massage is given by hand alone and relies on pressure and rhythm. In hot stone massage, heated basalt stones are both placed on the back and used as massage tools; because the warmth softens the muscles, even medium pressure brings a deep sense of relaxation. The session is also longer, at 70 minutes.
Can people with diabetes have a hot stone massage?
Diabetes-related nerve damage can reduce sensitivity to heat and increase the risk of burns. If you have diabetes, consult your doctor and let us know before your appointment; if appropriate, the stone temperature is adjusted accordingly or a massage without heat is suggested.
How long does a Hot Stone Massage session take?
A Hot Stone Massage session takes 70 minutes in Istanbul and 50 minutes in Izmir. Choose your branch on the booking form to see its duration options.
Who is Hot Stone Massage suitable for?
Hot Stone Massage is suitable for cold-weather relaxation seekers, deep muscle tension sufferers, thermal therapy enthusiasts and those wanting an extended spa session. Please let us know before your appointment if you are pregnant, have had recent surgery or have a chronic condition.
Which areas does Hot Stone Massage focus on?
The treatment focuses on back, shoulders, hips and legs. You can agree your priority areas with your therapist at the start of the session.
What is included in a Hot Stone Massage session?
The session includes volcanic basalt stones, aromatic oil, warm towels and herbal tea.
Where in Istanbul and Izmir can I book Hot Stone Massage?
Hot Stone Massage is available at the Aqua Plus branches in Bagcilar, Fatih, Sisli, Zeytinburnu, Pendik and Bayrakli. All branches are open seven days a week (10:00 – 22:00 / 23:00); choose the branch nearest to you when booking.
What are the benefits of Hot Stone Massage?
Key effects: thermal therapy, deep release, circulation and muscle suppleness. How long the effect lasts varies by person and with regular treatment.
How do I book Hot Stone Massage?
You can book online by selecting a branch, date and time slot, or contact the branch directly by phone or WhatsApp. We recommend booking ahead to avoid waiting at peak times.
Where to Get Hot Stone Massage
Hot Stone Massage is available at all six Aqua Plus branches. Choose the one closest to you; the booking form opens with the branch and service already selected.
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ISTANBUL · BAğCıLAR
Hot Stone Massage in Bağcılar
Near: Güneşli, Kirazlı, Yenibosna
M1B metro line (Bağcılar–Kirazlı), the Mahmutbey–Bağcılar axis and the Basın Ekspres connection; metrobus via Yenibosna/Şirinevler.
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ISTANBUL · FATIH
Hot Stone Massage in Fatih
Near: Çapa, Aksaray, Vatan
Reachable via the T1 Kabataş–Bağcılar tram (Fındıkzade / Çapa–Şehremini stops) and the M1A metro line (Aksaray).
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ISTANBUL · ŞIşLI
Hot Stone Massage in Şişli
Near: Mecidiyeköy, Gayrettepe, Esentepe
The M2 metro (Şişli–Mecidiyeköy), M7 metro (Mecidiyeköy–Mahmutbey) and the Mecidiyeköy metrobus stop are within walking distance.
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ISTANBUL · ZEYTINBURNU
Hot Stone Massage in Zeytinburnu
Near: Cevizlibağ, Topkapı, Maltepe Mahallesi
Reachable via the Zeytinburnu M1A metro / T1 tram interchange, the Cevizlibağ metrobus stop and the E-5 highway.
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ISTANBUL · PENDIK
Hot Stone Massage in Pendik
Near: Kaynarca, Sapanbağları, Kurtköy
Reachable via the M4 metro line (Kaynarca–Pendik), the Marmaray Pendik station and the D-100 / coastal road.
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IZMIR · BAYRAKLı
Hot Stone Massage in Bayraklı
Near: Adalet, Mansuroğlu, Manavkuyu
