The 4 West Coast Resorts for Hot Springs Lovers
Bliss out in these healing waters that soothe the soul.
Relax and rejuvenate with these natural mineral hot springs that nourish your mind, body, and soul on the deepest level. The therapeutic healing powers of mineral-rich water have been acknowledged for thousands of years. Not to mention the bliss and relaxation you’ll experience as you soak in a tub surrounded by nature.
Here are four of the “best in the west” hot springs where you can leave the world behind and relax in rejuvenating waters that energize your body at the cellular level.
1. THE SPRING Spa and Resort, California
In Desert Hot Springs, Calif., this hilltop garden oasis sits on what locals call Miracle Hill. At THE SPRING days melt away as you spa hop your way from one sparkling mineral pool to the next. The mineral-rich water, compared to that of Baden Baden in Germany, bubbles up through fissures in the Earth. Its mineral-rich properties restore your body both inside and out as you drink the water as well as soak in it. A feeling of tranquility takes over your senses as you’re surrounded by the magic of hummingbirds and butterflies with dramatic views of the desert landscape.
Pamper yourself with a massage at their award-winning spa. Or stay for a doctor monitored juice cleanse with yoga, healers, and therapists who assist you through every stage of your detox. Its 13 chic elemental rooms open up to the spa garden and mineral pools that never close. For a magical experience, see the sunrise or soak under the stars. For a personal retreat, check the calendar for holistic events such an underwater crystal bowl sound bath healing.
2. Glen Ivy, California
Perfect for a day date or a girls spa getaway, Glen Ivy is an experience like none other. Tucked in at the base of the Santa Ana Mountain Range, before you enter its 12 acres of naturally lush grounds, walk through the labyrinth and set an intention for the day. Then relax, unwind, and laze the day away in its 19 pools – each with a different vibe and therapeutic benefit. For pure mineral water soak in the historic mineral baths and drink the water to restore your minerals.
Bliss out at Spa Village and indulge in the new Ayurvedic Shirodhara mind-body treatment that relaxes every muscle in your body and balances your mind by pouring hot Shankara oil on your third eye energetic enter on your forehead. Next, get dirty at Club Mud. Paint therapeutic mud on your body. Then let it dry outside or in the sauna. Book a treatment at the recently renovated Grotto. A cave-like spa area, a practitioner paints your skin with a nourishing mix of oils and herbs that open your pores. Then rinse off under a cascade of water.
3. Esalen, California
An internationally famous spiritual institute in Big Sur, its dramatic natural surroundings are just as inspiring as its yoga, meditation, and self-discovery retreats. But this isn’t recent news as Esalen’s hot springs – perched on a cliff – have been a gathering place of wellness and healing by the Native American Esselen for over 6,000 years.
Surrounded by the ocean, hot springs, and a stream – water is at the heart of Esalen. The magical sounds of crashing of waves soothe your senses. While the ocean’s negative ions work their magic as you remineralize your body with a soak in its clothing optional hot springs – an invitation to embrace our true nature and practice self-love. Book a night soak in the hot tubs and star gaze over the ocean. Or opt for an open-air massage on the deck.
Accommodations range from sleeping bag space to renting a private suite – and include the price of your three or five-day retreat.
4. 10,000 Waves, New Mexico
If you’re looking for “serenity now” – you’ll find it at 10,000 Waves. Just minutes from downtown Santa Fe, it embodies the elegance of Japan’s Onsen hot spring culture. Stunning wooden outdoor hot tubs and spa suites dot the path amongst piñons and junipers. Zen gardens melt away any stress and relax the mind. While the natural healing waters and therapeutic spa treatments rejuvenate and heal your body. Soak the day away in the mixed bathing area or book a private tub. There is also a dedicated area just for the ladies.
The spa is just as elegant by day as it is by night – light up with glowing lanterns. Stay the night in one of its onsite rooms that will make you feel like you were transported to Japan in a traditional ryokan.
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