Looking for thermal pool soaks along with a relaxing spa experience? In a secluded setting lush with trees, plants, birds, and waters? Look no further than Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort. Tucked away under cottonwood trees in the La Cienega Valley and in the shadow of the Sangre de Cristo mountains, Ojo Santa Fe is an oasis of tranquility in the high desert environment of New Mexico.
This eco-friendly resort used to be called Sunrise Springs, but nowadays it is part of the Ojo family with a sister property – Ojo Caliente – about an hour north of Santa Fe. In general, New Mexico is known for its therapeutic waters and many resorts ranging from rustic to luxurious cater to this need.
It’s All About the Waters
Visit the spa resort for an afternoon (very popular with locals) or you can opt to luxuriate in the natural garden surroundings and stay as an overnight guest. What’s really special about being a resort guest is that you have unlimited access to the communal soaking area plus you have exclusive early morning access to the thermal pools. (Overnight resort guest pool hours are 7:30 am – 10:00 pm.) This resort is unusual from many other resort settings – what sets this resort apart is that you have no cumbersome daily resort fee tacked on to your overnight stays.
Thermal Soaking Pools
The source for the thermal soaking pools at Ojo Santa Fe is triple-filtered water from their own natural aquifer. Then, waters are then heated to varying temperatures to relax muscles and promote wellness.
No reservations are required for those coming for the day only. So, be sure to purchase a day pass upon your arrival and enjoy the communal soaking.
Private Soak at Ojo Santa Fe
A private soaking tub is the ultimate in relaxation.
However, from personal experience I would say that there is no better way to enjoy the waters than in the privacy of a private soaking tub. These sessions must be scheduled in advance and are available for a fee. (A 25-minute session is $30 while a 50-minute session is $55). It’s perfect for a couple; spacious for solo. Private soaking includes towels, robes, and private showers in room, as well as water for hydration. Swimwear is optional.
Ojo Santa Fe Resort
The resort has more than 50 rooms and casitas with a full-service spa, fantastic dining, outdoor pool, salt-water soak, and a medicine wheel to walk and contemplate.
From day one of your check-in you have instantaneous access to the thermal pools and seasonal saltwater pool, including access on your day of check-out.
Forgot to bring a towel or robe? Don’t fret as each room has robes and blue towels provided for soaking during your stay.
Rooms are spacious and come with all the standard amenities. Room amenities include local coffee and tea, signature Ojo hair and body products, as well as mini-fridge.
The bathroom is modern and spacious, with a spa-like feeling that exudes tranquility.
As mentioned earlier, there is no resort fee. Plus, there is plenty of free car parking along with free Wi-Fi. For those who fly in to Santa Fe Airport, there is also a free airport shuttle service. But book early, as the property often sells out.
Santa Fe Activities Galore
Besides soaking, relaxing, and rejuvenating spa treatments, there is plenty else to love about the extra activities at Ojo Santa Fe. Take advantage of the free yoga classes in the morning. Want some stress-melting animal therapy instead? Stop by the Puppy Patch onsite where you can hold and love dogs that need new homes. This is exclusive for overnight guests. Or go cuddle a chicken. Silkie Chickens are unique, soft, and purr like a cat when seated in your lap. Then feed the chickens healthy greens while on your guided chicken chat. Exclusive for overnight guests only.
The Puppy Patch is where you can enjoy stress-melting animal therapy. Photo courtesy of Ojo Santa Fe.
Target arts (archery, rifle, and hatchets) were offered during our stay and easily was one of my husband’s favorite activities. Unfortunately, they are now temporarily unavailable due to staffing shortages. When offered, they are available to day guests as well.
Author’s husband learns archery from Target Arts instructor.
Fine Dining at Blue Heron
The Blue Heron Restaurant is on-site and available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Executive Chef, Rocky Durham, ensures that locally-sourced herbs, fruits, and vegetables are featured as part of his modern-American cuisine that is flavorful and healthy. As part of this philosophy, you will find no salt or pepper shakers on the table. However, they are available for the asking.
Appetizer of Calamari and Fried Zucchini Strips at the Blue Heron.
Reservations
You can book directly at the resort website, at Expedia, or your favorite online hotel booking site. The property is available for those 13 and older. Ages 13 through 17 must be accompanied by an adult 18 and older. Rates vary depending on season, day, and availability. Once again, be advised that this property is very popular and fills up fast, so schedule your booking well in advance of your intended overnight stay.
Be sure to check the resort website for any specials that might be offered. At the time of this review, several specials being offered include a Girlfriend Getaway Package; Soak up Summer package with a $100 Gift Card good towards spa treatments, private soaking, or dining; and a Ojo Rejuvenator. This special day spa treatment includes an Ojo signature treatment with a 50-minute Essence of Ojo Massage, then a 25-minute Blue Corn, Prickly Pear & Salt Scrub that leaves skin soft and vibrant. The 75 minutes is $225 and does not include taxes or gratuities.
Girlfriends relax and chat while waiting on their spa treatment.
The author was hosted for one night at Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort for purposes of this review. As always, all opinions are those of the author. All photos are by writer/photographer Karin Pezo with the exception of the Puppy Patch photo courtesy of Ojo Santa Fe.
