Ottine Mineral Springs south of Luling is a magical place that invites you to come take the waters.
The folks from Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs in New Mexico have reimagined the campus of former Gonzales Warm Spring Rehabilitation Hospital as a health and wellness resort.
Phase one of the Texas resort opened June 1 with a beautiful array of pools ringed by lounge chairs and cabanas. Food and drink menus keep guests satiated, while a menu of spa services heals what ails.
“It’s all about the water,” says DeDe DeStefano, the general manager at Ottine.
Although the water comes out of the ground at 106 degrees, the pools are a relaxing bathwater warm. The minerals in the water give your skin a velvety feel. When you get out the breeze is almost chilly, even in the Texas heat. For hours after soaking your skin feels moisturized.
The mineral water was discovered in 1909 by wildcatters looking for oil. The Warm Springs Rehabilitation Hospital followed in 1939 caring for polio patients. When the polio vaccine eradicated the disease, and the center switched to treating patients with physical disabilities. The Ottine hospital closed in 2003, but the foundation still operates rehabilitation centers around the state.
The resort purchased the 60 acres bordering Palmetto State Park and the San Marcos River in 2017. The old multistory brick buildings are being repurposed and ancient trees continue to shade the grounds. Future construction will bring a new entrance, guest rooms, walking trails, and access to the river.
Ottine Mineral Springs is 54 miles from Austin, and about 4 miles south of the Buc-ee’s in Luling. Day passes are $65 for weekdays and $75 for weekends, and are available online (ottinemineralsprings.com) for morning or afternoon arrival times. You can stay as long as you want. No outside food or beverages nor children under 13 are permitted.
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This article appears in June 6 • 2025.
