La Gruta Hot Springs San Miguel

 

by Anne Dimon

La Gruta Restaurant & Spa, a 20-minute drive from San Miguel de Allende’s Centro, is said to be the most popular of the region’s natural hot springs.

On a spacious, well-treed lot, a collection of spring fed pools are the main focus of this local attraction. A covered. water-filled tunnel leading to an enclosed domed grotto, home of the the pool with waters that are closest to “hot.” Other pools hold waters that are tepid, warm and warmer.

Along with the collection of thermal pools, you’ll find lounge chairs and patio areas set up with tables and chairs. There’s also an all-day, outdoor restaurant serving dishes such as omelettes, fruit and yogurt, salads, sandwiches and tuna-stuffed avocado.

When we visited, massages were also available at a very reasonable rate, the entry fee is also very reasonable. At the time of our visit, the entry fee was $90 pesos per person (about $8) for the day. There are lockers but you need to bring your own towels.

La Gruta is not fancy – change rooms, washrooms and massage facilities are clean but basis. Also, this is a family place so don’t go expecting total peace and quiet, especially during holidays and weekends. In Moon’s San Miguel de Allende guidebook, Julie Doherty Meade writes: For the most Zen experience, get there early in the morning as the pools are just filling up with fresh water and few people have arrived.

If you’re interested in “taking the waters” La Gruta is certainly worth a half-day visit. Allow 90-minutes at the very least. More on La Gruta