Northwest of the city centre, Hammam Salhine is a thermal bathing complex built around natural sulphur springs that emerge from the earth at around 46 degrees Celsius. The springs have been used since Roman times, and the complex today includes both traditional hammam facilities and a modern thermal spa. The water is believed to have therapeutic properties for skin conditions and rheumatism, and Algerians come from across the country for therapeutic stays.
Even if you are not seeking a cure, an afternoon at the hammam is a fine way to spend time in Biskra — the ritual of steam, scrubbing, and the cold plunge is as restorative here as anywhere in the world. The traditional hammam section is cheap and straightforward; the more modern spa facilities cost more. Segregated by gender, as is standard across Algeria.