I don’t know where to start!
That’s because at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs and Spa there are 11 different mineral pools to choose from, with temperatures ranging from 80-109 degrees. (Kids must be over 12 in all the pools but the large one.)
I’m impressed that this is the only hot springs in the world with four different types of mineral water—over 100,000 gallons coming to the surface including lithia, iron, soda and arsenic good for all variety of ills. Iron is good for the immune system; arsenic water for relief of arthritis and lithia for depression.
No wonder locals love this place, just an hour outside Santa Fe. The modest 43 rooms and two houses for rent are typically are taken from spring through fall. Rates for a soak, including the Mud Pool, steam and sauna start at just $20 during the week, less after 6 p.m.
I like the Iron Spring bubbling up from the natural pebble floor. But my favorite is my soak in a private outdoor tub ($45 for two) with its own kiva fireplace and surrounded by rock. No need for a swimsuit!
I wish I had more time for a spa treatment or two like the Earth Keepers’ Hot Stone Massage or Native American Blue Corn & Prickly Pear Salt Scrub. The prices are a lot less than at a typical resort spa.
Next time!
Eileen Ogintz writes the syndicated column Taking the Kids and is the author of the 10-book Kid’s Guide series.
