The Best Hot Springs In Mexico And Where To Stay

The hot springs in Mexico are the result of geothermally or volcanically heated water, revered and used by the ancient Maya civilization. Fascinated with these seemingly magical pools of steaming water, the Mayans used them for relaxation, healing and spiritual rituals. For hot spring fanatics, Mexico offers a diverse range of options for all budgets and tastes. In this guide, we share the best places to stay for easy access to these watery wonders, all bookable on Culture Trip.

Tlacotlapilco, Hidalgo

If you’re looking for a family-friendly hot spring adventure, head to Tlacotlapilco in the Mezquital Valley, Hidalgo. Here the geothermal waters are utilized by the Tlaco Parque Acuatico Ecologico, a waterpark with slides, ziplines and a spa. Make the most of those warm waters in the jacuzzis and two-level thermal pool, while the little ones explore the thrills and spills of the aquapark.

1. Casa Basalto

Hotel

This sustainable boutique hotel in Pachuca de Soto uses solar energy among other ecofriendly resources. Stylish quarters are made from marble and wood, decorated in muted tones with splashes of grape and steel. After a day at Tlaco Parque Acuatico Ecologico, regain some energy by tucking into Mexican dishes at Dolina restaurant.

The Mayan Baths, Guanajuato

The romance stakes are high at the underground hot springs in Guanajuato near San Miguel de Allende, which are surrounded by quartz and other semi-precious stones. Soak up the minerals swimming through tunnels illuminated by hundreds of candles. A well-organized set-up, the Mayan Baths offer day packages including lunch.

2. Grand Las Nubes by Inmense

Hotel

A luxury hacienda on the outskirts of colonial San Miguel de Allende, you can truly recharge at Grand Las Nubes. Lush rolling gardens, an outdoor swimming pool overlooking the valley and a spa form part of the portfolio; white-beamed ceilings and red-brick floors shroud airy suites. The hacienda well sources the same water that fills the local hot springs.

San Miguel de Allende

For a fantastic hot springs experience in San Miguel de Allende, head with your swimwear to La Gruta complex. Set under a canopy of trees, it has waterfalls and pools, each hotter than the last. When you’ve had your fill, cool off with a poolside beverage.

3. Hotel Atotonilco El Viejo

Hotel

A short drive from the Sanctuary of Atotonilco church in San Miguel de Allende, this stunning colonial property has an out-of-the-way location that ensures a relaxing stay. Well-appointed rooms are airy and well illuminated, and bring together wood, red brick and scarlet decor. Cool off in the vast swimming pool with a cocktail; eats include traditional Sunday brunch at Corazón de Mezquite.

Valladolid

Hot springs in Valladolid? Sort of. While aquatic adventures in the colonial town may be centered around the open-air Cenote Zaci, you can enjoy a hot spring-like stay at Hotel Zenti’k, where a rather ingenious underground pool replicates the experience.

4. Hotel Zenti’k

Boutique Hotel

Hotel Zenti’k is an all-immersive hotel and thermal water experience where subterranean caverns hold therapeutic pools. Enter the underground caves, buried 20ft (6m) below, through vast stone vaults before soaking in the blue-green warming waters. Temperatures hover around 95F (35C), though they are artificially heated. Salt water provides exfoliation, while the resin on the walls is said to have medicinal properties.

El Géiser, Tecozautla

Home to one of the largest volcanic vents in Latin America that releases steam day and night, El Géiser in Tecozautla, Hidalgo, is part public swimming complex, part water park. One to keep the kids entertained, it houses several large pools, slides and a zipline plus grills for cooking out.

5. Viña del Cielo

Hotel

Wine lovers will adore luxurious Viña del Cielo surrounded by vineyards, farmland and mountains in Cadereyta de Montes. A comfy and tranquil stay, it has elegant rooms sporting a contemporary design; upgrade to a jacuzzi suite for extra pampering or a two-bed loft for a more family-friendly stay. Dine at the cellar restaurant surrounded by the Viña vintages.

Hierve el Agua

An hour’s drive from Oaxaca city, Hierve el Agua in San Lorenzo Albarradas has hot spring pools surrounded by beautiful rock formations and petrified waterfalls formed over hundreds of years. Facilities here are few, ensuring a totally natural setting and breathtaking views.

6. Casa Regina Hotel Boutique

Boutique Hotel

An elegant boutique hotel tucked into Mitla Oaxaca Valley, Casa Regina has eight loft-style rooms named after varieties of local agave. The attractive decor features red brick and wood, while the spa has a more pale palette; opt for the hot-stone massage. Come dinner time, try delicious Oaxacan dishes, such as mole negro, made from ancestral recipes.

Lydia Carey contributed additional reporting to this article.

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