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Kidz Eye View of Sycamore Mineral Springs
“Holy Hot Tubs, Batman!!”
by John Wood
Nicely nestled, halfway up the California coast — smack dab between Los Angeles and San Francisco, in the Avila Valley — rests a relaxing therapeutic resort called Sycamore Mineral Springs. Initially named "Oil Wells", in 1886, after two wrong-way Jed Clampett fortune hunters who were drilling for oil. Instead, to their chagrin, they discovered sulphur-based mineral waters that came a bubblin' through and started an exodus that resonates to this day.
In the early 1900's the good word got out and the famous and near-famous, looking for a way to break up the long train ride between the two main California cities, made the trek to newly named San Luis Hot Sulphur Springs for the healing touch — $19 bought a train ride and a two-day stay at the resort.
Fast forward to the 1970's and a few incarnations later, we arrive at Sycamore Mineral Springs, rebuilt to accommodate not only spa enthusiasts but a myriad of other invigorating activities that will get one refreshed and renewed, from hiking and yoga to bike riding and massage. Be sure to check out the Labyrinth walk designed after the well-known Chartres Labyrinth located at Notre Dame de Chartres Cathedral in France. When hunger arises, have a healthy nosh at The Gardens of Avila restaurant open daily for brunch and dinner. The food is fabulous and vegetarian dishes are available on request.
Each of the guest rooms has its own private balcony spa. The rooms are comfortable and vary in price dependent on the room and package. If you don't have time in your busy schedule for an overnight stay, take a time out in one of the outdoor redwood tubs, secluded on the hillside by oak and sycamore trees — great star-watching — the ones in the sky.
So if you're looking for a family getaway, a romantic escape (even unto marriage), business conference, retreat, or just a few simple hours of healing relaxation, Sycamore Mineral Springs has the goods for you. For an in-depth look at all the amenities offered, seasonal specials, directions, etc:
Tell ‘em Johnny-on-the-Spot sent ya!
— John Wood