It’s often overlooked, but many hot springs flow through the San Francisco area. Selection of four renowned establishments where you can take advantage of their benefits. Guaranteed relaxation… and a great gift idea for Mother’s Day on Sunday May 14!
Vichy Springs Resort in Ukiah
Two hours north of SF is one of California’s oldest spa complexes. 170 years old, it was built around sources that share the same characteristics as the famous waters of Vichy in France, in particular their carbon dioxide content. You can relax in the only naturally hot and carbonated mineral baths in North America. Dug out of the rock, these fourteen baths, which look like bathtubs, are worth the detour. Just like the hikes crossing a wide area between hills, woods, rivers and waterfalls. You can stay during the day or sleep on site in charming cottages with the flavor of yesteryear. More info on the site. Address: 2605 Vichy Springs Rd, Ukiah, CA 95482, USA
Indian Springs Resort in Calistoga
An hour and a half from SF, in the wine country of Napa, this hotel and spa, built in 1861, is one of the most famous in California. What earned him his success? An Olympic size mineral water pool fed by the geysers under the property and only accessible to adults. The structure also offers very popular treatments and hot mud baths. It’s about immersing yourself in a volcanic soil loaded with minerals and letting their detoxifying virtues act. All in a decor with touches of Spanish mission. More info on the site. Address: 1712 Lincoln Ave, Calistoga, CA 94515, USA
Wilbur Hot Springs in Williams
About 2.5 hours away, in a nature reserve east of Clearlake, this spa is a refuge. Powered by solar energy, it has no network and bans telephones. An excellent opportunity to recharge your batteries in its waters described as “medicinal” and used by Native Americans for decades. The water flows continuously through channels and is divided into three Japanese onsen-style pools in which it reaches temperatures ranging from 37 to 43°C. If you wish to extend the day, you can stay in a chalet, in a room or reserve a campsite. Beyond swimming, other activities – curative treatments, massages, reiki, yoga, etc. – are proposed, spirituality as master of the place. More info on the site. Address: 3375 Wilbur Springs Rd, Williams, CA 95987, USA
Esalen Hot Springs in Big Sur
Three hours south of SF, along the Pacific Ocean, baths perched above the coast offer a unique experience between sky and sea. Their mineral waters are said to be effective in relieving patients suffering from arthritis. Local communities would have used it for more than 6000 years. Today, you can slip into the water of these baths on the side of the cliff (and spread over several levels) by reserving a time slot between one and three o’clock in the morning. At all other times, only clients of the Esalen Institute – the retreat center adjoining the springs – can take advantage of it. Philosophy new age in the program. More info on the site. Address: 55000 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, USA
Four hot springs to discover around San Francisco – Frenchly