A Little-Known Place In New Mexico That’s Perfect For Total Relaxation
Ojo Caliente (pronounced “O-ho Kall-ee-in-tey”) Mineral Springs & Spa is one of the oldest natural health resorts in the United States; it opened in 1868. The sulphur-free, geothermal mineral waters that bubble up from the ground have flowed from a subterranean volcanic aquifer for thousands of years. More than 100,000 gallons of water rise to the surface every day. Soaking in these hot springs is revitalizing and, some believe, healing. Check out just what Ojo Caliente in New Mexico has to offer:
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The spa is far from city noise, in a tranquil cliffside location just north of Santa Fe. In addition to enjoying a soak in the healing waters, the spa services and the farm-to-table restaurant, you can spend time birding, hiking and biking.
Ojo is the only hot springs in the world that offers pools with four different types of mineral water: lithia, iron, soda and arsenic. The 11 pools are filled with different types and combinations of these waters. Temperatures range from 80 to 109 degrees. Soaking in lithia water is believed to relieve depression, while soaking in the iron pools can benefit the blood and immune system. Spending time in the soda pools can relieve digestive problems, and soaking in the arsenic water can provide relief from arthritis, stomach ulcers and a variety of skin conditions.
A unique and extra-special feature of this spa is the mud pool. It’s an odd sight at first, the guests lounging around, slathered in mud, soaking in the sun. Your first reaction might be to declare, "No way am I putting that on my skin!" But consider that as the beaming New Mexico sun dries the mud on your skin, toxins are released from your pores. After you shower, you will feel cleansed and refreshed.
In the center of the courtyard is the Kiva Pool, which is filled with a combination of iron and arsenic mineral waters. It’s open from 6 a.m. to midnight every day. Here is a view of the Kiva Pool from the Arsenic Pool.
Want to spend time alone in a private pool with that special someone? Rent one of three secluded private outdoor pools for an additional fee. What better way to enjoy the serenity of the healing waters underneath New Mexico’s blue sky during the day or on a star-studded night? Reservations are recommended for these private pools, which can be rented from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Spending the day at Ojo is fantastic, but an overnight stay is magical. You can stay in the enchanting suites, charming cottages, historic hotel or private homes. Each of the Cliffside Suites has a private back patio facing the breathtaking cliffs that border the Springs and a private outdoor soaking tub filled with Ojo’s legendary waters.
The spa services offered at Ojo have a uniquely Native twist. From the Earth Keepers’ Hot Stone Massage to the Native American Blue Corn & Prickly Pear Salt Scrub, you can rejuvenate in a uniquely Southwestern way.
Yoga at Ojo is somewhat of a spiritual experience. Your instructor will ask you to write down an intention or prayer on a seeded card and attach it to the Intention Tree. Every spring, hundreds of these written intentions are soaked and planted in the Intention Garden located outside the Yoga Yurt.
The Artesian Restaurant provides a casual but memorable dining experience. In 2014, Ojo began developing its two-acre on-site farm to grow herbs, fruits and vegetables using organic and sustainable practices. You can enjoy lighter fare with an extensive selection of local and imported wine in the adjacent Wine Bar & Lounge.
For more information, including rates, visit the Ojo Caliente website. And if you’re ready to go to Ojo, the address is 50 Los Banos Dr., Ojo Caliente, NM 87549.
Have you ever been to this unique spa in New Mexico? If so, what was your experience like? What was your favorite part? For another unique getaway, check out these B&Bs in New Mexico.
Address: 50 Los Banos Drive, Ojo Caliente, NM 87549, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Ojo Caliente In New Mexico
May 08, 2020
Leah
What are the best little known getaways in New Mexico?
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What’s the most beautiful spa in New Mexico?
There is a stunning, tranquil spa in New Mexico that is uniquely beautiful for the state. Ten Thousand Waves is a Japanese resort and spa located on a mountaintop. Surrounded by incredible scenery, it’ll transport you to Japan with traditional bathhouses, koi ponds, massages, and a fantastic Japanese restaurant. It’s like taking a trip to the island country and enjoying all it has to offer without ever leaving the Land of Enchantment. Learn more about it here.
Where can I find the largest resort in New Mexico?
When looking for a great health resort in New Mexico to visit, there are a few big ones that shouldn’t be missed. The Sunrise Springs Spa, Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado, La Posada de Santa Fe, and many other resorts boast large amounts of accommodations, activities, pools, and more. It really doesn’t get any better than a stay at any of these big getaways, where you’ll be lost in a world of relaxation. Needless to say, there is no shortage of vacation spots where you don’t even have to leave the state to enjoy one.
