Hot Springs might not be the first thing you associate with Mexico City, but nearby, there are plenty of fantastic places worth adding to your itinerary. Ranging from historic gems with extensive stories to a natural waterpark dropped in the middle of a canyon, any one of these options would be a wonderful addition to your time in central Mexico.
A big country in size, there are many hot springs in Mexico to be discovered. Here’s a look at the ones near Mexico City, in order of proximity:
Baños Medicinales del Peñón (8 km/5 mi)
Baños Medicinales del Peñón is located just a few miles out of the center of CDMX and is easily accessible by public transportation. Simple but refreshing, these thermal baths not only provide a place to soak but also learn about the area’s history.
Once a sacred place reserved for rulers like Tlatoani Moctezuma in pre-Hispanic times, today, there’s an 18th-century chapel, a small garden, and several private rooms guests can rent out.
Each includes a tub, which is spacious by meant for only one or two people, a bathroom, and a bed for a post-soak massage upon request. Signs recommend bathing in the nude to better absorb the water’s natural minerals.
Grutas Tolantongo (200 km/124 mi)
Grutas Tolantongo is a relaxing getaway about three to four hours northwest of Mexico City that boasts breathtaking views of Mezquital Valley in Hidalgo. Check out mountainous horizons from the thermal pools built into the landscape or the river that winds through it. Having both artificial and natural features, guests can enjoy the beauty of nature under a waterfall or from a cave.
With rentals for camping on the property as well as room options at the resort, Grutas Tolantongo makes sure its visitors are comfortable. You can even choose to cook over a campfire, try a variety of national dishes at the on-site restaurant, or head to the grocery store to pick up essentials.
Offering activities like hiking and ziplining, visitors can explore the valley from the treetops or the ground, and keep an eye out for local wildlife.
Escondido Place Hot Springs (281 km/175 mi)
Escondido Place is another hot spring tucked away in the captivating little artist town of San Miguel de Allende. Designed for ultimate relaxation, there are multiple indoor and outdoor thermal pools, the former of which is in cave-like settings with waterfalls. Additionally, there is a lake, jacuzzi, spa, and restaurant.
Guests can enjoy massages, facials, and other treatments between soaks then head to the Helena Restaurant for gourmet Mexican cuisine that uses locally sourced ingredients in a variety of settings including an upscale cafe and fine dining. Common areas have swings and lounges, providing the ideal atmosphere to listen to nature.
At Escondido Place, there are 14 cozy guest rooms decorated with items made by local artists. Similar to other hotels, the staff can help coordinate events as there is plenty of space on the property for you and your guests.
The Mayan Baths (283 km/176 mi)
With mineral water flowing through arched stone, quartz, and crystal tunnels that are lit with over 100 candles, the Mayan Baths is an underground paradise. As guests explore the property, they’ll notice waterfalls and plants lining the walls.
Peace and quiet take on a different meaning when beneath the city, but the Mayan Baths’ large outdoor pools and gardens are also open to exploration for those less inclined to leave the sunlight. Guests can de-stress even further with the addition of a massage or a simple meal with friends. Food and beverages are also available during parts of the day.
Hotel Hacienda Taboada (285 km/177 mi)
Also near San Miguel de Allende, Hotel Hacienda Taboada is more of a traditional hotel with thermal waters in their swimming pool. Possessing three pools–a round pool, a semi-Olympic pool, and multiple kiddie pools–all are fed by odorless and drinkable hot spring water that leaves the ground at 107.6℉.
The grounds and gardens are the Hotel Hacienda Taboada are impeccably groomed, providing guests with outdoor space to explore while the gym, tennis courts, and game tables are great for those looking to get active. Additionally, there are coal-burning grills making it great for hosting an event, conference, retreat, or wedding.
There are also 70 guest rooms with terraces that offer old-world glamour and anyone who stays the night is offered complimentary breakfast.
Everything from rudimentary bath houses to resplendent resorts can be found near Mexico City. Take your pick and enjoy a relaxing vacation that the country is known for hosting. Just don’t spend all your time in the springs, or you’ll miss out on some of the world’s best cuisine!
Chief Shakes Hot Springs – Wrangell, Alaska