Healing Waters
It happens to all of us: As everyday tasks overwhelm our days, we become complacent about exploring the destinations in our backyards. I’d heard about luxurious Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa for years, but didn’t make the time to visit. After a vexing year, a trip to Ojo Caliente Resort was no longer a luxury; it was a necessity. So my boyfriend and I booked a Pueblo Suite for a two-day, one-night escape.
The springs at this resort are unique in that the pools have four different minerals: arsenic, soda, iron, and lithia. Each has its own healing benefits, and we availed ourselves of all of them. Set against the cliffs, which afford hiking opportunities should you chose to take them, most of the pools offer incredible views of the high-desert landscape.The exception is the indoor Soda Pool, where the steam shrouds just about everything creating what seemed to us an exclusive soak. We were lucky to have a truly secluded experience in a private pool. In the evening, we climbed the steps to the ours-f0r-an-hour adobe-walled patio, which included a roaring kiva fireplace and pool, lined with New Mexican luminarias in honor of the holiday season. We soaked as night fell and the sky faded to twilight blue. Our booking in the Pueblo Suite allowed us to enjoy the Kiva Pool. (Those staying in the Cliffside and Plaza Suites also have access.) The pool is as large as many of the public pools, but with fewer guests accessing it. Warmed to the perfect temperature, it was a great place to soak and lounge under the rustic shade ramada. But the pools weren’t the only thing helping us relax.
My more than two-hour Ojo Dreamin’ spa treatment, which included a massage, reflexology, and scalp massage, was aptly named—it was a dream come true. During the treatment, as my massage therapist’s hands traced the intricate knots that stress had knitted in my back, shoulders, and even arms, she sighed. “Goodness gracious, girl!” she admonished. But after a few minutes under her determined hands, the muscles relaxed and I along with them. During the scalp massage was so blissful that I fell asleep for a few minutes. Shameful, I know. But apparently my off switch is located in my temples.
We dined at the on-site Artesian Restaurant for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. As a vegetarian, I’m accustomed to searching menus to find a suitable dish. I was delighted to find several available (and delicious) options for each meal. At lunch, we took advantage of the relaxed dress code and wore our spa robes even as we ate. Other people were doing it, too! We did wear actual clothes for our fine evening meal, however.
Our Pueblo Suite was decadent; it included lovely southwestern decor and bed coverings, and a kitchenette. I only wish we’d been able to stay longer to enjoy it more. However, with day-use rates starting at $18, I’ll be sure to take advantage of this healing destination more often.