Have You Been To New Mexico’s Coolest Hot Springs?

Ojo Calente is a magical destination between Taos and Santa Fe where visitors can soak away those aches and pains in a series of inviting pools in a spectacular high desert setting. Yes, of course there’s a bunch of green chili dishes on the resort’s menu. Let’s take a look around.

The ancient ritual

Humans have been celebrating the practice of soaking in mineral hot springs since… well, forever. Among the many ways Ojo Calente stands out is that it’s one of the few spots where soakers have the option to access four healing minerals — arsenic, lithia, soda and iron — in naturally sulfur-free waters.

In the five-plus years, my husband and I have been living the nomadic RV lifestyle, we’ve been drawn back to this beautiful destination many times. It’s actually got a small RV park, which is an extremely rare find at high-end resorts. The price for an electric and water hookup for the night? Under $50, plus a discount on daily rates for entrance to the hot springs.

Since we started soaking here — and slathering on the mud, but details about that ritual in a sec — the under-the-radar gem has certainly been “discovered.” On a recent weekday, the hammocks were full of those getting their relaxation game face on. The pools were never close to capacity, but the calming waters were certainly busy in the middle of a sunny fall day. No problem. Everyone was chill. Except for those ignoring the “Respect the Silence” and “Please Whisper” signs. Sigh.

Here’s the beautiful workaround if you’re staying there: Come back in the evening when the crowds of day trippers thin out. Better yet, the early bird gets the most tranquil sounds of silence… accompanied by soothing pan flute music piped over the sound system.

MORE FROM FORBESHere’s Why You Need To Go To Chico, Montana’s Coolest Hot Springs ResortBy Leslie Kelly

Soak like a pro

Often, those unfamiliar with the whole soak, rest, repeat process will go for too long in the hottest pool. Start with 10 minutes soaking followed by 10 minutes resting. Even better, hit the large pool for a cold plunge.

Whenever I visit Ojo Calente, I start with a trip to the mud area, where clay like water pours from spouts. Cup your hands and slather it on, then take a few moments to let it dry in the sun. There’s a hot pool when you’re ready to rinse off and outdoor showers that look like buckets with holes punched in the bottom. Ahhhh.

Picking a favorite

I’ve worked my way around to all of the nine pools and a few rise to the top. The Lithia Pool promises to improve your mood and aid in digestion. Plus, it enjoys stunning views of the red rock cliffs that rim the property. The Soda Pool encourages silent reflection. Hmmm, too bad that couple in the corner keep talking. The Terrace Pool is the warmest and one of the smallest. There are also private pools that can be booked.

My all-time fave is the iron pool, which is believed to be beneficial to the immune system while promoting healthy skin. The warm water bubbles up from the natural pebble floor. Walking on it feels like the best kind of foot massage. (And speaking of massages, book one at the spa if time allows.)

Remarkably, all that soaking can stir some powerful hunger pangs. Let’s check out the menu at The Artesian Restaurant and Wine Bar.

This is chili country

The Land of Enchantment has long been on the forefront of chili appreciation. There’s even a Hatch Chili Festival every fall near Las Cruces. So, here are a few standouts on the dinner menu at The Artesian that should get fiery food fans exciting:

• Poblano Fries are potato crusted chilis served with a sweet and spicy vinegar
• Roasted Chile Relleno is filled with goat cheese and served with red chili sauce
• Wild Scottish Salmon is accompained by green chili potato cakes
• Local buffalo short ribs are slathered in a chipotle barbecue sauce and served alongside seasonal veggies from Ojo’s own farm
• Sea scallops are embellished in a red chili pesto

Good to know: reservations are required for dinner. There’s also an Ojo Calente Spa Resort in Santa Fe.

MORE FROM FORBESThis Northwest Entrepreneur Has A Savory BackstoryBy Leslie Kelly