In 1892 as the main Homestead building was taking shape, a large Spa building was constructed adjacent to the hotel. The Spa was said to be located just below a series of six large flowing hot springs, with separate floors for men and women and numerous dressing rooms. A variety of treatments were available including Boiler Baths, Sulphur Baths, Mud Baths, Octagon Baths, and separate Pleasure Baths for Ladies and Gentlemen. A stylish viaduct allowed guests to walk from the hotel in comfort and style.
While mineral springs the world over have been valued for their medicinal benefits, modern spas have shifted away from these claims towards relaxation and holistic wellness. Despite the original treatments no longer being offered one remaining attraction is the spring-fed indoor pool, which was built in 1904. It was given a separate building accessible from the bathouse by a connecting corridor.
1915 HOMESTEAD BROCHURE
"The swimming pool, 85 1/2ft. x 30 1/2' ft. with a depth ranging from 4 to 7 ft., is supplied with constantly flowing water from several springs, with a temperature of 82 to 85 degrees. This pool is in a handsome building adjoining and communicating with the bath house. It is complete in every appointment and is kept at a temperature which makes bathing enjoyable the year 'round."
A door to the outside was later added at the far end which led out to a veranda and stairs down to the 1950s outdoor pool.
To feed the indoor pool a continuous flow of warm water came through a sluice at one end. In the 1970s children would congregate beneath it to feel the novelty of the waterfall fed by a hot spring. Originally a flat, square slice of marble this sluice has been replaced with the modern version below. A 2026 hand-test revealed the waterfall temperature was the same as the pool suggesting it is no longer fed by a hot spring.
