La Gruta

From Cheryl:

On Friday, our last day, my prayer for a sunny summer day was answered, which meant we were going to visit the hot springs we had heard about. We called a cab, and rode about 20 minutes out of SMA into the countryside. I had no idea what to expect, other than warm water pools. I didn't know how rustic and natural or developed they would be. I wondered if they would resemble the sink holes I knew from Tallahassee.

La Gruta (the grotto) is actually a day resort. It is a step back in time, to a 1940's or -50's style attraction here. In a lovely park-like setting terraced into a lush hillside, it's beautifully landscaped, with several concrete pools of varying heat. The coolest is about body temperature. It seems strange to swim in such warm water. The next pool is warmer still; then you enter a tunnel that is chest-deep, and go another 50 feet, where it opens up into a domed room that is hot-tub temp. A pipe bringing water in creates a waterfall that you stand under for hydro-massage. Steam collects in the dome. The water has a high mineral content that allegedly removes toxins from your skin. It felt wonderful.

Elise and I had back massages-- $15 each for 30 minutes, given by young Mexican women. Not deep-tissue, but very soothing. There was a raised tiled patio area for sunning and dining, with table service and lounge chairs. Other tables were scattered on a grassy lawn, where you could also be served. All in all, La Gruta was one of the most serene and relaxing places I've ever experienced.