Hello to everyone who's checking out this review!
I'm super excited to share my experience with one of Rostov-on-Don's best-kept secrets where you can relax, swim, and do it with relative comfort. I visited City Creek in the summer of 2022, just after it opened, and again in November 2024. So, what's changed and is it for the better?
Address: Republic Square St., 106A, Rostov-on-Don
Price
The prices vary depending on how far in advance you book. If you roughly know the date of your visit, I recommend checking the website – you can snag a discount and it's not bad at all.
I've included the options we didn't get to try below. But saving 480 rubles on a ticket from 1,600 is a nice touch, don't you agree?
The printed tickets look like this, and the reception staff scanned the code without any issues. They gave us wristbands, which unlock the lockers and also track any additional services you use.
Visiting rules
From what I gathered, the main rules are:
1. White robe
I'm not sure why they're so strict about it – you can rent one from them. We paid for the cotton ones, thinking it was May and the 50-ruble difference wouldn't make a difference.
2. No outside food or drinks
Absolutely not. I'm not sure how it works if you're visiting with kids, but our family left their food at the reception.
Changing rooms
There are separate men's and women's areas, right across from each other. It's a nice setup – bright, spacious, wooden lockers, and benches...
The lockers close with a wristband
There aren't any changing booths, so you'll have to duck into the bathroom if you're feeling self-conscious.
There aren't many hair dryers, just a few scattered around the locker room. But overall, it's clean and decent – the locker room hasn't gotten worn out after two years.
The Thermal Complex
Pools
There are two heated pools outside. One's a big rectangular one with no frills.
See how empty it is on the photo? That's no coincidence! The pool may be heated, but it's still freezing – I'd only go in to cool off after a sauna session, not to swim.
The other pool is more complex, with all sorts of hydro-massage bubbles and jets.
This one's actually warm, as you can see from the photo – there's even steam rising! It's a great place to relax and enjoy the hydro-massage, but there's one catch... I'm not sure who designed it, but it's got some sharp angles and height changes.
The pool tiles are pretty much invisible underwater, so you'll need to move slowly and keep an eye on the ground. I visited on a weekday, and the place was pretty quiet, but I can imagine it getting crowded and chaotic on weekends - you might end up bumping into people or worse!
The circular pool with a current is a real treat, especially with the underwater lighting. It's super relaxing, and you can just let the water carry you along without a care in the world!
Spas and saunas
They've got a great selection - 7 different options to choose from, so you're bound to find something that suits your taste.
Each one is unique, both in terms of design and temperature.
Many of them have floor-to-ceiling windows, which is perfect for lounging and taking in the view.
If you're looking for something a bit more intense, there's a sauna-bath combo that's super hot and cozy. I didn't get to try the spa ceremonies, as I'm not supposed to spend too much time in the heat, but I did notice that the schedules aren't clearly posted anywhere. If you're interested in trying them out, it's best to check with the reception desk for the latest info.
Relaxation area
There are plenty of sunbeds outside, although it looks like they don't get cleared away when the weather gets chilly.
There's plenty of space to lounge around indoors.
We visited on a weekday, and there was no crowd.
You can even take a refreshing dip in the cold water if you don't feel like heading to the pool.
The only downside was the paid hot tub outside, but I guess it's okay.
And in the evening, they even set up a campfire! It instantly became super cozy!
People gathered around the fire pit on the designated benches, and it was a real treat to watch the flames – it's definitely a unique experience.
Restaurant
We spent the whole day at CITY CREEK, and we ended up eating at the restaurant twice.
The restaurant has plenty of seating space.
Overall, the place is clean, cozy, and unpretentious.
The prices were pretty standard for the city, and the menu was surprisingly interesting, with some unique options.
We ordered two types of pizza and a mulled wine, which was a nice touch. The staff were super friendly and attentive, and the food was actually really tasty. I was blown away by the quality of the thermal complex - usually, places like this have a pretty lackluster kitchen, but not here.
The pizza with the pear and cheese was a standout for me - it was cooked to perfection and the flavors worked really well together.
Alright, time to wrap things up. We spent the whole day here, and I got a pretty solid impression of the place.
What didn't I like?Forced to wear a robe;Having to pay for the hot tub;The architecture of one of the pools was pretty sketchy, with some steep drops and sharp angles.
What did I like?
The low entrance fee is a bonus, especially when you catch a discount.The complex still looks brand new, even two and a half years after its opening.The place is spotless everywhere.The staff are friendly and welcoming.The restaurant has a great kitchen.There are plenty of saunas and baths to choose from, so you can pick the one that suits you best.They often turn on the hydro massage and jets in the pool.There are loads of seats in the relaxation area.And in the evenings, they even light a fire. It may seem like a small thing, but it's actually really cozy!Verdict
I've tried CITY CREEK, and while it's not perfect, it's still my go-to spot. Neither the Sultan SPA or the Sea Station really impressed me or made me want to come back. But CITY CREEK's thermal complex gets a well-deserved four stars and my recommendation!