Thinking about escaping the hustle of Mexico City for a day? If hot springs and good food sound appealing, the La Gloria Thermal Waters & Barbecue Tour offers a unique way to do just that. This experience promises tranquility away from the crowds, with a focus on enjoying natural thermal pools and savoring traditional flavors. It’s tailored mainly for adults, making it ideal if you’re seeking a peaceful retreat with a touch of local flavor.
What we particularly like about this tour is the private access to La Gloria, which means fewer people and more space to unwind. Plus, the authentic barbecue tasting in the Mezquital Valley feels genuine, giving you a taste of regional life. That said, since the day is packed and involves some travel, it might be a bit tight for those wanting a super leisurely pace or traveling with children. This trip suits those who appreciate natural beauty, authentic cuisine, and a more intimate experience.
Key Points
- Private access to La Gloria ensures a peaceful, crowd-free experience.
- Enjoy thermal pools, waterfalls, and viewpoints, perfect for relaxation and photography.
- Includes a traditional barbecue tasting that highlights local cuisine.
- Round-trip transportation from Mexico City makes planning straightforward.
- Leisurely pace designed for adults; not suited for children under 18.
- Optional overnight stays available in cabins, tents, or hotels within the eco-park.
An Honest Look at the Experience
If you’re picturing a day where you can truly relax in warm waters, appreciate scenic views, and end with a hearty local meal, this tour hits many of those marks. We’ll break down what this experience entails, covering everything from transport to the actual site.
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The Journey Begins: Comfort and Convenience
Starting with round-trip private transportation from your hotel in Mexico City, the trip immediately removes the stress of navigating public transport or renting a car. You’re greeted by your host, who not only drives but also serves as your guide, offering insights into what you’ll see and taste throughout the day. As you head out, you might enjoy local bread and coffee from Hoya—nice touches that make the journey more personal.
The drive to Hidalgo takes roughly a few hours, depending on traffic, but having private transport means your time is flexible and comfortable. This setup is especially appreciated by travelers who prefer starting their day smoothly rather than rushing.
Exploring La Gloria: Peaceful Hot Springs & Hidden Views
Arriving at Parque La Gloria, you’ll notice it’s a more intimate, private section of Tolantongo. This is key because the usual tourist spots can get crowded, especially on weekends. Here, the emphasis is on enjoying the crystal-clear thermal pools, waterfalls, and viewpoints without the throngs of travelers.
The tour includes access to the river’s source, a 6-meter-diameter pool, and other eco-park areas. We loved the way the guide pointed out less obvious viewpoints, perfect for photographs or just soaking in the scenery quietly.
The pools are warm and inviting, with some visitors mentioning that the experience feels exclusive and peaceful. You’ll have plenty of time to just float, relax, or explore at your own pace. Remember, this is a more adult-focused experience, so the environment is calm—ideal if you’re looking to unwind away from noisy crowds.
The Attractions: Waterfalls, Rivers, and Scenic Spots
One of the highlights is the chance to see waterfalls and enjoy rivers that flow through the park. The views are quite stunning, with some reviewers noting that it’s a fantastic place for contemplating nature or taking photos. The less known viewpoints are a real bonus, giving you an opportunity to see the landscape from angles most travelers miss.
From the reviews, it’s clear that the leisurely pace is appreciated. You get to choose when to swim, relax, or just sit and enjoy the scenery. The guide often takes the lead in pointing out the quieter spots, which is helpful if you want to avoid the crowds.
More Great Tours NearbyFood and Snacks: The Local Touch
Throughout the day, you can purchase snacks or meals at your leisure. The tour offers the option to sample local cuisine, which is a lovely way to experience regional flavors. The highlight is the traditional barbecue tasting at the end of the day in a local village in the Mezquital Valley.
The barbecue features steaming consommé with chickpeas, juicy meat wrapped in palm leaves, freshly made tortillas, and an assortment of molcajeteadas sauces. Cured pulque or artisanal mezcal accompanies the meal, adding a genuine local touch. Several reviews mention that the food is hearty and authentic, making it a satisfying end to your day.
Evening: Authentic Mezquital Valley Barbecue
The journey to the village is a highlight in itself, offering a glimpse into local life. The barbecue experience is relaxed and authentic, with most reviews praising the quality of the meat and the flavors of the sauces. “You get more than just a meal; it’s a cultural experience,” one reviewer notes.
The setting feels genuine and unpretentious, with plenty of opportunity to chat with locals or simply enjoy the rustic atmosphere. You can also choose to stay overnight in the park—either camping, in a cabin, or a hotel—if you want to prolong your relaxation.
What’s the Value?
At $136 per person, this tour packs a lot into a single day. You gain private transportation, guided access to a peaceful section of Tolantongo, a scenic drive, and a hearty local meal. For travelers craving tranquility, authentic cuisine, and scenic views, it offers solid value. The fact that it focuses on an adults-only experience makes it stand out, though it’s not suited for kids under 18.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re seeking a relaxing escape with a touch of adventure and culture, this tour is a good fit. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers who appreciate natural beauty, good food, and a quiet atmosphere. However, if your idea of a trip involves lots of activities or a lively environment, this might feel a bit slow.
Possible Downsides
One thing to consider is the duration—a full 12-hour day means some may find it a long trip, especially if you’re not used to early starts or long drives. Also, the experience isn’t designed for children or people with disabilities, so plan accordingly. Finally, since the tour is adult-only and intimate, it may not be suitable for those traveling with young kids or seeking a family-friendly outing.
Final Thoughts
This tour offers a special way to enjoy La Gloria and the surrounding area in peace and authenticity. The combination of natural thermal waters, scenic viewpoints, and a genuine local barbecue makes it feel like a slice of regional life, away from the typical tourist hustle. If you value quiet nature, authentic food, and a personalized experience, this could be a highlight of your trip.
While it’s not a tour for those seeking packed schedules or family activities, it excels at providing a relaxed, cultural, and scenic escape for adults. The private transport and guided experience mean you get comfort and insights along the way, making the long day feel more manageable.
This tour is a well-balanced choice for travelers wanting a meaningful day outside Mexico City—one that blends natural beauty, local flavor, and serenity.
Mexico City: La Gloria Thermal Waters & Traditional Barbecue Tour
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is designed exclusively for adults, mainly because of the tranquil setting and the nature of the activities.
How long does the entire tour last?
It lasts about 12 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and the barbecue tasting.
What should I bring?
Bring a towel and sandals, especially for enjoying the thermal pools. It’s also advisable to wear comfortable clothing suitable for walking and relaxing in water.
Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip private transportation from your hotel in Mexico City is included, making it easy to plan your day.
Can I stay overnight at La Gloria?
Yes, you can book additional accommodations like camping, cabins, or a hotel within the eco-park for one or two nights.
What kind of food is served at the barbecue?
Expect steaming consommé with chickpeas, juicy meat wrapped in palm leaves, fresh tortillas, and flavorful sauces—plus local drinks like pulque or mezcal.
Is the experience family-friendly?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18 due to the quiet, adult-only environment and nature of the activities.
This tour offers a wonderful blend of relaxation, scenic beauty, and genuine local flavors—perfect if you’re seeking a peaceful, authentic escape from Mexico City.
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