Ixtapan de la Sal

Thermal waters, tropical gardens and a classic spa resort in the Mexican mountains.

A gentle place to slow down

Ixtapan Spa Yoga & Fitness Resort sits in the foothills of the Sierra Madre, about two hours southwest of Mexico City's international airport. The days here are unhurried: soak in the mineral springs, take a yoga class, walk the gardens, then settle in for a quiet dinner.

I travel here with small groups, and I'm gathering names now for the tours I'm organizing in 2027.

Join the 2027 waitlist

A bright guest room at the resort with soft bedding
  • About 75°Fmild weather, with no extremes
  • 2 hoursfrom Mexico City International Airport
  • 10+ acresof tropical gardens

The waters

Ixtapan de la Sal means "place of salt," and the town has long been known for its warm mineral springs.

The indoor thermal pool beneath tall stained-glass windows
The indoor pool, lit by stained glass

Spa and wellness

  • Thermal mineral springs and private Roman mineral baths
  • Massages, facials and other treatments
  • Yoga, meditation and fitness classes with instruction
  • Guided nature walks

The resort

  • Condo suites and villas with all amenities
  • Airport transfers and guided tours
  • Staff with an average of 30 years at the resort
  • Wellness programs including Holistico and Shangri-La Spa

Gardens and plaza

Shaded paths and a town square close enough to walk to.

The fountain in the plaza
A monument in the town plaza
The archer statue
The archer statue beside a palm tree
Fresh salsa served with lime

Spa gourmet

Meals follow the spirit of the stay: light, fresh and beautifully served. The resort's Spa Gourmet dining includes a spa diet menu, so eating well is part of the rest.

The spa diet menu, with breakfast, lunch and dinner dishes
A sample spa diet menu (click to enlarge)

The town and its people

Colonial churches, quiet streets and a warm welcome.

A church altar painted in soft blue
The gilded vaulted ceiling of a church
Members of the resort team

Come with me in 2027

Waitlist members hear about dates and details first.

Join the waitlist

Resort details come from spamexico.com. The photos were taken on my visit.