images courtesy of CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa
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A central oasis beckons
An Adults-Only Luxury Getaway at Castle Hot Springs, Arizona
Nestled among striking saguaros and beautiful desert flowers in the Sonoran Desert lies CIVANA Wellness Resort and Spa, a laid-back and eco-friendly retreat offering enough self-care activities to soothe even the most uptight and stressed-out visitor. (Seriously—even the name of the town, Carefree, lends itself to the serene mindset here.) Here’s what to expect during your stay.
The
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Who should you bring?
CIVANA works best as a solo destination or girls’ trip (think: a low-key bachelorette or much-needed spa retreat for mom). There were a fair amount of couples when I visited, but the majority of clients were women. Whatever you do, leave the kids at home—CIVANA is reserved for guests ages 14 and up.
What’s the food like?
Seed, CIVANA’s casual cafe and specialty market offers organic coffee, veggie-packed smoothies and plant-forward bites until 4 p.m., while Terras is the resort’s all-day restaurant highlighting seasonal, local ingredients. Here, guests can enjoy flavor-packed dishes such as matcha pancakes or a Sonoran breakfast burrito, beet carpaccio and herb-crusted elk tenderloin.
Did you get a good night’s sleep?
Accommodations are open and airy (think: big windows and high ceilings), with an emphasis on natural materials and colors like soft beige, warm terracottas and muted greens that echo the desert landscape. The result? A very serene night’s sleep (the blackout shades and comfy beds aren’t too shabby either).
What amenities are available?
whirlpools, in addition to a range of treatment options available). Gym buffs will enjoy the 24/7 fitness enter, as well as the many wellness activities on offer such as hiking along the bluff, cycling classes outside, meditation, beach yoga and more. Speaking of the beach, the Monarch Bay Beach Club is exclusively available to members and guests and has everything you need to surf the waves, paddle board, SUP and more. Or hey, if you’d just like to kick back on a beach chair with a glass of wine, then that’s cool too.
There are over 100 movement, wellness, personal growth and spiritual classes on offer each week, featuring everything from bootcamps and intention burning ceremonies to introduction to feng shui and guided hikes. Named one of the top spa resorts in the world in Condé Nast Traveler's Readers Choice Awards, this fully equipped spa includes a world class hydrotherapy circuit, a steam room, a relaxation room and numerous treatments. You can spend an entire day (or more) here. Just make sure you are on the second deck during the perfect Arizona sunset for phenomenal views. There is also an outdoor heated saltwater pool, as well as hot and cold plunge pools, a fire pit, a jacuzzi, a comprehensive fitness center and well lit tennis courts.
One of my favorite features on the grounds was the stone labyrinth that was so meditative and calming to make my way through. You can go on your own or join one of the Guided Labyrinth Walking Meditations.
How was the service?
The entire staff was knowledgeable and accommodating. Every class I took was led by an experienced and engaging instructor and our guides for the hike were experts in their field and very receptive to questions. You can also text with the front desk throughout the day which makes it simple to get answers to questions and make changes in your schedule.
What was your favorite part?
CIVANA believes wellness is a personal journey, not a prescribed destination and that we should each honor what makes us feel truly alive. As such, every guest is able to have their own unique experience by taking advantage of the many class options. Bonus: The hotel provides everyone with a metal water bottle to use and refill at the multiple water stations throughout the hotel.
Know before you go:
Once you book your room you are able to sign up for two classes per day—do this ASAP and prioritize classes that are likely to have a cap due to equipment. (Many guests get waitlisted. ) Then once you arrive, you are able to take an unlimited number of classes. The menu is pretty limited so if you are staying for multiple nights it could be worth venturing off property for a meal or two.
book it
Accommodation options:
Rooms and suites, all with a small outdoor balcony or patio
Price:
Rates start at $399 per room
Location:
Carefree, AZ
Property:
CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa
Basics
Details
Top-notch: The service was beyond what you’d expect from a five-star hotel. From the around-the-clock concierge that can help you book those hard-to-get reservations and private tours to 24-hour laundry/drycleaning and in-room dining, the Four Seasons is known ‘round the world for their attention to detail. Expect twice-daily housekeeping, free water in-room and nightly turndown service (complete with slippers and a mat to wipe your feet placed next to the bed).
How was the service?
Top-notch: The service was beyond what you’d expect from a five-star hotel. From the around-the-clock concierge that can help you book those hard-to-get reservations and private tours to 24-hour laundry/drycleaning and in-room dining, the Four Seasons is known ‘round the world for their attention to detail. Expect twice-daily housekeeping, free water in-room and nightly turndown service (complete with slippers and a mat to wipe your feet placed next to the bed).
What’s the food like?
Civana Wellness Resort and Spa
