Once again, the Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa in Arkansas is on the list of Top 100 Spas compiled by Spas of America.

The Arlington’s Thermal Water Spa is unique in that guests bathe in the waters of the hot springs pumped directly into the hotel. The natural spring waters from the world-famous Hot Springs National Park flow out of the ground at a temperature of 143 degrees Fahrenheit.

So, how does that work? Thank Mother Nature. Rain in the watershed area sinks about a mile deep through faults and fractures. As it goes deep into the earth, it becomes heated by the natural heat of the earth. Hot water then rises quickly through a fault at the base of Hot Springs Mountain where the Arlington and world-famous Bath House Row are located.

“We take great pride in the Thermal Water Spa, as well as our beauty and facial salon,”  Bob Martorana, general manager of The Arlington, said in a statement. “Our experienced, professional staff is dedicated to making all of our guests look and feel great.”

Many of the folks at the Arlington have been with the hotel for more than 30 years and their dedication shines through. It’s a unique place, steeped in character. Al Capone slept there.

The spa retains its vintage tubs, outfitted with what appear to be large electric mixers. It isn’t sleek or fancy but it sure gets the job done.

When I was a guest at the Arlington spa last year, I was greeted by Susan, who ushered me into the tub. After a good, hot soaking in swirling waters, Susan gave me a thorough scrub down, showered me off, wrapped me in towels and left me to rest on a chaise like a proper southern lady before being led to a sublimely relaxing 20-minute massage. Ahhh!

The list was featured in Healthy Living + Travel, and included spas in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Spas of America based its selections on the number of unique visitors to its website.

The Arlington has been a destination since 1875 when visitors from around the world would come to Hot Springs to bathe in the soothing thermal waters to heal and relax. Hot Springs National Park became “America’s Spa” and is the only national park in a city.

Bring your water bottle to the park downtown and get a free refill of this natural refresher from any of the public water fountains.

If you’re looking for an option that retains its sense of history but is completely restored try, Quapaw Baths. The state-of-the art bathhouse and spa offers four spacious soaking pools with Hot Springs’ natural waters in varying temperatures and is located a short stroll from the Alington down Central Avenue on historic Bath House Row.

Don’t miss the spectacular skylight sited over the pools. A full slate of spa services also is available.