Glen Ivy: LA's Club Mud
Folks who want to soak head for the soothing hot water that lies just beyond the freeways. Glen Ivy in Corona’s palm and eucalyptus-shaded foothills gives the land’s ancient volcanic activity its moment in the sun with a kind of Flintstones-Meets-Four Seasons sprawl of hot pools, cold pools, mud pools, meet and greet pools, kiddie pools, grandma pools and spa pools all doused with serious healing minerals from the middle of the earth.
The $38 (on weekdays) or $49 (on weekends) admission buys a stay from 9:30 am to 5 or 6 pm, towels, lockers, and a Disneyland of warm pools, hot pools, mud pools, salt pools, Roman baths, Jacuzzis, steam, sauna and lounging spots – both active and quiet -- in an oasis of oak, ferns and palms.
But leave the Dior bathing duds and Manolo flip flops at home. Leave the jewelry behind as well as nothing tarnishes silver like sulphur.
Beyond the mud pools and mineral dips lies The Grotto -- a signature attraction at Glen Ivy, although for the $25 entrance charge it can be skipped. An attendant takes each party into an elevator to the floor below where they are painted with a cooling aloe vera and coconut paste and led into a warm room to simmer. It’s a cave man’s paradise in here under heat vents and lamps in a setting that might have been conjured at Hanna-Barbera.
The faux rock ledges are a bit uncomfortable so many people stand as they bake and percolate. Fifteen minutes later it is time for the showers – and these are probably the best part of the experience. Hot cave showers with waterfall shower fixtures and wall nozzles create a relaxing and cleaning, satiating spray.
Best to leave The Grotto for last (although it closes at 4 pm) as the soaking in mineral pools is a must and might take awhile. An excellent prelude to any cave dwelling plans.
The naturally thermal waters of Gen Ivy pour into a line of soaking tubs big enough for two, or three, even four small people, and one large communal tub that can always squeeze in one more. As water pours in, other water filters out, eliminating the need for chlorine or additives. Nor does the water smell. It’s simply a sublime soak, complemented by the imbibing of freely flowing cold mineral water from local artesian wells.
A dry Zen sauna room nearby offers the unusual experience of windows that allow users to look outside to the peaceful scenery created by the landscaping. A few paces away: a salt water Jacuzzi dissolves away whatever sensibilities are left. Spa services are at the ready for anyone with any skin left. A 50-minute Swedish massage or a Glen Ivy facial cost a reasonable $89. And a Eucalyptus body wrap is only $49. Manicures start at $29.
Food, too, is no nonsense and surprisingly healthy and affordable. A cafeteria serves fresh soups and chilis, sandwiches and salads made on the spot. A full meal can be had for as little as $11.
It takes just over an hour to get to Glen Ivy from midtown Los Angeles. So, once there, stay while.
Posted by Lark Ellen Gould
