This desert oasis was just named one of the best hotels in the world
The rocky landscape of Castle Hot Springs in Arizona was once only trekked by Indigenous Americans who came to soak in the healing water. It has now evolved into one of the state’s hidden gems, equipped with a wellness resort.
The oasis in the desert is a little under an hour from Phoenix. The potholes and unpaved roads leading up to Castle Hot Springs still give the air that visitors are in a remote location. But in fact, they are venturing to a location that Travel and Leisure listed as one of the 500 best hotels in the world.
Located in the Sonoran Desert, the landscape of Castle Hot Springs utilizes all of its natural resources. The spring water from Bradshaw Mountains provides a filtered water supply for drinking, bathing, watering the onsite gardens, and even filling the three multi-tiered soaking pools set in the canyon above the resort.
Once visitors take in the scenery, they will be shocked to find the room accommodations are even better. Travel and Leisure mentions the resort is big on “space and privacy for all guests.”
The Spring Bungalows are “modern, freestanding homes with private spring-fed tubs and indoor-outdoor fireplaces,” while the nearby Sky View Cabins are “perfect for stargazing and come with their own telescopes and outdoor tubs.” The resort also offers villa-type housing for large groups. Dining at the resort is served nightly in the main house. Multi-course offerings include fresh ingredients from the onsite garden.
Castle Hot Springs also takes advantage of its surroundings to provide several activity and excursion options. From hiking on the slot canyon on the Crater Canyon tour to paddleboard yoga and farm tours, the resort has it all. If the initial trip to the resort had you reach your limit in the outdoors, local wine tastings are also offered as an activity. The main attraction of Castle Hot Springs is its spa. Their life-changing massages and services are known to provide guests with life-changing experiences. Their Watsu treatment (a form of hydrotherapy) is highly recommended.
To book your stay and get more information about this desert retreat, visit CastleHotSprings.com.
Martie Bowser is a journalist and public relations professional in Charlotte, NC. She enjoys amplifying the voices of POC and women that fill a void within their community. Her bylines include “person of interest” interviews, small business highlights, pop culture commentary, entertainment features, and everything Beyonce.
This story was originally published May 3, 2023 at 5:30 PM.