The water was initially non-compliant. Two months late compared to forecasts, the health space dedicated to spa treatments in Nancy opened on Monday due to a water problem linked to the late delivery of part of the facilities. This space of the Nancy Thermal complex, equipped with a multifunction pool, a mobilization pool, a water walking corridor, a rest area and more than 70 treatment cabins, was initially to open its doors to spa guests on May 15.
It is therefore 115 spa guests who presented themselves to begin 20 days of treatment, including 18 of care, indicated to AFP, Bernard Riac, CEO of Valvital, the operator of the site. “It’s a big relief. Now, all the mechanics are in place and running”, rejoiced, with AFP, François Werner, 1st vice-president of the metropolis of Greater Nancy in charge of Attractiveness, economic development and tourism. .
Increase in tourist overnight stays
Some 2,800 spa guests are already registered for the spa season, “which gives hope for a figure that should exceed 3,000”, in accordance with the objectives. The operator estimates that 5,000 to 6,000 people could visit the establishment in 2024, when the season will begin in March.
For this first year, the proportion of regional curists is higher. But in the long term, the metropolis estimates that tourism linked to well-being and cures could represent 300,000 additional overnight stays in Nancy, i.e. a 20% increase in tourist overnight stays. “It will also be tourism of a different nature, with people who will stay longer,” said François Werner.
A key sector of the local economy, tourism is a priority for the recovery and economic development plan of the Greater Nancy metropolis. The discovery of a hot spring at the beginning of the 20th century had motivated the opening of a first spa establishment in Nancy, but the building remained unfinished after the Great War.
The new complex constitutes the sixth spa resort in Lorraine, joining the five historical establishments of the Vosges (Plombières-les-Bains, Bains-les-Bains, Contrexéville, Vittel) as well as Amnéville in Moselle.