€41 million thermal spa complex underway in Bjelovar

Terme Bjelovar (Photo: Grad Bjelovar)

The Croatian city of Bjelovar is undertaking the city’s largest investment to date – the construction of Terme Bjelovar, a €41.5 million thermal spa complex.

Just five kilometres from the city centre in Veliko Korenovo, a vast construction site now occupies what were meadows only a year ago. At its heart will be Croatia’s third internationally certified Olympic-size swimming pool, complete with seating for 600 spectators.

Bjelovar Mayor Dario Hrebak emphasised that the spa will be powered exclusively by solar energy and geothermal water sources, making it one of the most energy-efficient facilities in the country.

“There are no gas pipelines here. Heating and cooling will rely solely on solar power and our own geothermal water. This will keep operating costs extremely low and ensure a quicker return on investment,” Hrebak told HRT.

(Photo: Grad Bjelovar)

The key to the project’s sustainability lies in Bjelovar’s geothermal resources. Director of Terme Bjelovar, Zvonimir Žarec, explained the advantage:

“We are unique in having two geothermal wells. The first, drilled in 2021, provides water at 33°C, while the deeper well, completed in 2024, delivers water at 75°C.”

Of the total investment, €17 million has been secured through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. Around 40 jobs will be created once the complex is operational.

(Photo: Grad Bjelovar)

Žarec added that financial viability is within reach:

“If we reach around 200,000 ticket sales annually, the project could pay for itself within 10 to 12 years. Revenues will also come from wellness services, including massages and other spa offerings.”

The complex will feature eight pools in total, with agreements already signed with the Croatian Olympic Committee, the Swimming Federation, and the Water Polo Federation.

(Photo: Grad Bjelovar)

Mayor Hrebak noted the facility’s appeal for elite sport:

“It’s only a matter of time before Croatia’s water polo and swimming teams use Bjelovar’s modern pools for their preparations.”

(Photo: Grad Bjelovar)

In addition to sports tourism, the project aims to attract visitors with wellness facilities, glamping houses, and hotel accommodation. Around 175 beds will be available once development is complete.

With a direct connection to the new expressway linking Bjelovar to Zagreb, the spa is expected to draw visitors not only from the region but also from the capital and beyond.

(Photo: Grad Bjelovar)

A city with history and geothermal promise

Founded in 1756 by Empress Maria Theresa of Austria as a military centre, Bjelovar is today a lively city in northern Croatia known for its green surroundings and cultural events.

Bjelovar (Photo: Fraxinus/CC BY-SA 3.0)

The city has long been recognised for its geothermal potential, with natural springs beneath the fertile plains of Bilogora and Moslavina.

The development of Terme Bjelovar marks a new chapter, positioning the city as not only a cultural and administrative hub but also as a destination for wellness and sports tourism.