3 Great Volcanic Baths and Saunas around Xela
Being surrounded by volcanoes gives Xela somewhat different attractions from the typical Latin American tourist spots. One of these is the chance to bathe in geothermal water from below the Earth’s surface – here are three of our favourite places to do so. When in Rome!
Fuentes Georginas
Fuentes Georginas
The most popular of our options, Fuentes Georginas are naturally heated swimming baths complete with bar and restaurant, situated 2500m up the beautiful Zunil Volcano. The seven baths, heated naturally by the volcano, are engulfed in lush forest and often a rolling mist that give the site an incredibly mystical feel.
While any visit to Georginas is sure to impress, we would recommend going during the week as the pools are particularly busy on the weekend. Also, for a really special experience you can walk the ecological path located behind the parking area, where you can find two more private pools.
For a spectacular night experience, rent a cabaña for a night. You’ll almost certainly have the pools to yourselves once it gets late enough. The cabañas are come with stocked fireplaces and BBQs ready to be fired up. Bring lots of food and drink and enjoy an intimate volcanic experience under the stars.
Timings:
- Opening: 9am to 6pm all week
- Travel time: 40 minutes to an hour from Xela by bus
- Bus times: 9am returning 12:30pm or 14:30pm returning 6pm (varies depending on company)
Prices:
- Entrance: 25Q nationals or 50Q foreigners
- Parking: 10Q
- Microbuses: found from most travel companies in Xela – return ticket 130-150Q
Las Cumbres – Carretera al pacific km 221.5, Zunil
Las Cumbres
Las Cumbres is an Eco Hotel, restaurant and spa located near the town of Zunil. If you’re looking for something a bit more up-market and private, this is for you. The natural sauna is created by the thermal waters of the Zunil volcano and is part of a beautifully built complex, full of incredible views.
The most basic service they offer is the use of their relaxing saunas, which comes at a very reasonable price. But if you’re looking for a real pampering they also offer spa treatments and hydrotherapy. With so many great options we would recommend contacting Las Cumbres directly to make a reservation before going.
Transportation to Las Cumbres is complicated, but the trip is worth it. If you head to La Terminal and catch a bus for the south coast (la costa sur) it will pass Zunil and the spa. More information for where to find them exactly can be found on their webpage.
Timings:
- 7am to 7pm
Prices:
- Vary according to service
Los Vahos
Los Vahos
Los Vahos, the least known of our options, is a hidden gem found in the beautiful hillsides surrounding Xela. It is the most easily accessible of our options, being only a 30-60 minute walk from Xela. It is also the cheapest of the three.
The rugged, natural setting of Los Vahos is the home to some beautifully basic saunas built upon volcanic hot rock. They also offer cabañas for overnight visitors. The saunas are dark cauldrons of bellowing volcanic steam.
To find Los Vahos you must head out of the town to the south, uphill following 9 Avenida before turning off right for a short off-road hike to the site. We would recommend checking the route out online or calling to check directions before leaving.
Timings:
- 7am to 7pm
Prices:
- 10Q for use of the saunas
As always, Xela Guide is evolving! If you have something to add, sent it over to revistaentremundosgt@gmail.com
