16 W E S T W O R D W i n t e r G u i d e 2 0 2 4 - 2 5 westword.com Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa 28640 County Road 58EE, Moffat 719-256-4328 joyfuljourneyhotsprings.com The surreal energy of the San Luis Val- ley attracts artists, spiritual seekers and wellness devotees — and Joyful Journey Hot Springs appeals to them all. Admire views of the dramatic Sangre de Cristo Range while soaking in three outdoor pools of varying temperatures. More than a dozen minerals are naturally present in the water, yet it doesn’t have that sulfur odor common at most springs. Day passes are $18 (discounted to $12 on Tuesdays) and give you access to the pools as well as other meditative activities including a labyrinth, geodesic dome greenhouse and new community “joyful wall” featuring notes, photos and other mementos ex- pressing gratitude. This remote sanctuary also offers a private home rental, yurts and other lodging options, plus a yoga studio and health-forward kitchen. Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort 15870 County Road 162, Nathrop 719-395-2447 mtprinceton.com Mount Princeton Hot Springs, one of the closest resorts to Denver, is loved for its extensive amenities. A full-service spa, fi tness classes, on-site dining and lodging options including cozy rooms and private cabins round out a weekend’s itinerary — but this spot is also an ideal day trip. Soak creekside in a natural setting, swim laps in one of several spacious pools, and even splash down two new 700-foot water slides open during the summer. Day passes Monday through Thursday are $40 per adult, while passes Friday through Sunday are $45. And the resort is currently offering a discount: From now through December 10 (excluding the week of Thanksgiving), day passes Monday through Wednesday are just $20 from 7 to 9 p.m. when you mention “Colorado night swim.” Where better to stargaze in the mountains? The Springs Resort & Spa 323 Hot Springs Boulevard, Pagosa Springs 800-225-0934 pagosahotsprings.com Steamy pools percolate throughout Pagosa Springs, a wellness Take the Plunge continued from page 14 continued on page 18 Charlotte Hot Springs & Botanical Gardens opened this year. CHARLOTTE HOT SPRINGS Babe’s Tea Room is not your grandma’s tea room. Inspired by childhood memories of af- ternoon tea with her mother and sister, owner Allison Jannach opened Babe’s in 2020, putting a contemporary spin on a classic ex- perience. Babe’s now has two locations — in downtown Denver and in Golden — offer- ing cafe service Monday through Friday, as well as a signature afternoon tea seven days a week. Sophisticated yet approachable, Babe’s tea service incorporates traditional elements of an afternoon tea minus some of the old-school formalities. Unlike at tradition- al tea rooms, Babe’s afternoon tea service is available all day, so guests can indulge in the time-honored ritual on their own schedules. This winter, don’t miss out on Babe’s famous holiday afternoon tea, an annual tradition for the whole family! Afternoon tea service includes unlimited tastings of Babe’s 80+ loose-leaf teas — an ideal opportunity for newer tea drinkers to ex- plore different varieties. While you sip, snack on the accompanying prix fixe assortment of tea sandwiches, scones, shortbread, French macarons and petit fours, a selection that can be made vegan, gluten-free, or vegan and gluten-free. Afternoon tea at Babe’s Tea Room is a unique way to celebrate special occasions like birthdays, date nights, an- niversaries, bridal showers or baby showers. Children are always welcome at Babe’s, which also offers a kids’ afternoon tea with smaller portions, a kid-friendly menu and discounted kids’ pricing. Babe’s Tea Room hosts guests’ special moments all year-round, but it’s even more magical during the holiday season. Babe’s goes all out for the holidays, decking the halls inside and out with festive touches that highlight the season. Bring your holiday cheer out of hibernation with Babe’s Holiday Afternoon Tea, featuring a limited-time menu of seasonal flavors and teas, including Babe’s best-selling Spiced Christmas black tea blend. Toast with a wine pairing from Denver’s Vino & Bubbles menu, or a cocktail from Golden’s full bar. Babe’s Golden loca- tion is also home to a corner market with to-go coffee and tea service, a bakery and a retail store — the perfect place to shop for stocking stuffers or pick up a fascinator before your afternoon tea! This holiday season, bring your friends and family to share in the ultimate indulgence of Babe’s Holiday Afternoon Tea, or order a gift card or “to-go tea party” online to give anyone on your list a one-of-a-kind experience! babestearoom.com GET IN THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT AT BABE’S TEA ROOM
