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The enchanting Tolantongo Caves are a hidden paradise

Pure, blissful magic.

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Created by Malgorzata Arbudzinski - September 21st 2016

Part waterpark, part spa, and part nature preserve, Grutas Tolantongo is pretty much the ultimate getaway. The resort is built along a box canyon, open on one end and closed on the other. The mountains around the canyon are volcanic, heating the water to steamy temperatures and infusing it all with minerals. thus forming some of the world's loveliest hot springs. And whether you'd prefer to just soak in all this natural beauty for as long as possible, or you want something a little more exciting, the resort delivers.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/grutastolantongo/photos/pb.277973218937163.-2207520000.1448898138./946815408719604/?type=3&theater

Grutas de Tolantongo, HID, MX

Grutas Tolantongo

There are several ways to enjoy this Mexican geothermal wonderland. The first is to explore the tunnel and cave-- this grotto features a warm, spring-fed pool and river, and also has warm, mineral-rich water misting in from the walls and ceiling... it's basically like an all-natural sauna, with a pool for swimming. If that's a little too steamy for you, then a dip in the slightly cooler river might be more your speed. The flowing water provides an almost massage-like effect, and its mesmerizing blue hue adds to the effect... not only does it make the whole experience feel more magical, but the water's color comes from salts and minerals dissolved in it: perfect for soaking in. You can get an exfoliating mask or mud treatment to further the relaxation. You can also enjoy hiking and camping in this serene environment as well!

If you can't get enough unwinding, then head to the waterfall pools, natural springs that have been dammed up to create 40 or so cliffside travertine terraces, each with natural spring water for bathing and relaxing. They've also got ziplines and an epic suspension bridge... because the experience of getting an adrenaline rush from the zipline and then coming down from that high in a cliffside hot spring is kind of the best. And if the camping isn't quite your style, you can rest assured that there are several hotels at the hot springs, as well as several delicious restaurants, so you can really make the most of your stay.

20 de Noviembre, HID, MX

Las Pozas

If you're looking to really make your trip to Mexico completely enchanting, there's an abandoned, surrealist Xanadu hidden in the rainforest not too far away. The mysterious ruins came from the mind of eccentric surrealist poet Edward James. Born into wealth, he left behind his life of luxury to move to a coffee plantation in Mexico. He grew orchids and made a sanctuary for exotic animals, but in 1962, when a frost killed most of his flowers, he began to construct the sculptures that make up what is now known as Las Pozas (“The Pools”). James died in 1984, leaving behind more than 30 sculptures spread out over the 80 acres of rainforest- which also contain waterfalls and pools. Today, visitors can explore the grounds, climb the sculptures, and have a surreal experience of their own!