The Vichy springs in Europe date to the times of The Roman conquest of what is now France when, according to a legendary incident, Caesar’s horses, depleted of minerals from their long journey, drank the water and were reinvigorated. A spa was established at the spot in the center of what is now France and called “Vichy” by the Romands in commemoration of the event.
In the hills of Ukiah, the springs at Vichy Springs Resort & Country Inn, only two hours north of downtown San Francisco, are the only naturally warm and carbonated Vichy-style mineral baths in North America. They were also a vital and sacred resource to the indigenous groups of extended families collectively called Pomo, who once lived on this area. IThe site was later a place of retreat for one of California’s greatest authors Jack London, who used to come here for inspiration.
The healing waters at this rustic spa have unique healing characteristics including the relief of stomach acidity, stomach ulcers, rheumatism and arthritis. Europeans also know that carbonated water of this type, with its high and balanced mineral content, can help those with extreme circulatory problems. Just three or four minutes in the luke warm water water (there’s also a swimming pool and jacuzzi provided as well) dramatically dilates the body’s capillaries and gives the bather a feeling of both warmth and peacefulness.
Beside the therapeutic benefits, the springs are located on a mysteriously inspiring tract of land offering a beautiful short hike to a nearby waterfall. Rustic lodges here also offer couples a place for romantic seclusion.