The story is a magical one. SunWater Spa collaborators Don Goede and Kat Tudor were bathing in the waters of the Ganges River in India almost a decade ago, experiencing a spiritual ceremony when they first discussed the possibility of creating a healing arts space revolving around the magical waters of Manitou Springs.
Thus, the idea for a hot mineral-water spa in this special mountain town was born.
Now in its seventh year, the magic continues for SunWater, which has garnered “Best of” awards in publications throughout the Front Range, as well as having experienced exponential success.
With a view of Pikes Peak (Tava) from all 10 of its private cedar-infused hot mineral springs soaking pools, SunWater Spa also boasts three saline, multi-temperature pools and an infrared sauna to enhance the relaxation experience.
With good “growing pains,” tubs 11 and 12 will open in late May, with the older tubs having recently been refurbished.
“Soaking in heated mineral water can also create a relaxing, stress-reducing benefit,” Tudor explained. “The heat causes blood to expand to the body’s surface, flushing lymphatic fluid through the muscles and stimulating tiny organ cells to tell muscles to relax.”
The curative properties of these legendary natural springs were known to indigenous peoples and animals, and they have experienced these healing minerals for several thousand years. The springs contain such minerals as calcium, necessary for bone and tooth formation; magnesium, vital for nerve and muscle health; potassium, which produces an electrolyte that helps maintain a healthy blood pressure; as well as copper, fluoride, iron and zinc.
“Over the past year we have done more sponsorships with the Manitou community, including the local Women’s Club and even the chamber, but it all comes down to the sacred nature of the water. We are now a sanctuary wellness destination, with 10, soon to be 12 private soaking tubs, where people really enjoy the water,” said Lyn Ettinger-Harwell, SunWater’s chief operating officer.
“Manitou has been about water for centuries and people still want to make that journey. It’s a beautiful facility, with a friendly staff, but ultimately SunWater is all about the water from 7 Minute Spring, which is very healing for both your body and mind. When it is a beautiful sunny day, and our guests are enjoying their soak and able look across at that mountain landscape, I think it is one of the most beautiful places on Earth.”
The tubs have now been named for the mountains surrounding the area and guests can ask for them by name. Mary’s Mountain Tub is incredibly private and very popular, and Red Mountain Tub on the third floor has a spectacular view of that historic mountain.
Both the second and third tubs offer beautiful views of Pikes Peak (Tava), and guests have said that the sunsets from Mount Manitou Tub and Raspberry Mountain are spectacular. With three hot mineral tubs, and three saline pools on the first floor, a goal is to offer the space to small groups.
“SunWater Spa is a very peaceful place,” Tudor said, “and the Ute Natives gave this space their blessing to create a sacred space.”