Two Amazing Days at Castle Hot Springs

My husband and I recently spent two nights at Castle Hot Springs at the end of a Grand Canyon trip.

To reach the resort, we drove down seven miles of remote dirt and gravel roads. A family of burros met us and took a long look at us—they seemed to give us permission to enter Castle Hot Springs.

Welcoming committee

Once you reach the gate, the friendly staff will let you in and relieve you of your car. We were met with a refreshing wellness drink and taken to our bungalow in a golf cart.

Our Spring Bungalow featured thoughtful touches like complimentary wine, coffee, custom tea blends, snacks, and YETI water bottles. We were close enough to the stream that runs through the property to hear its relaxing gurgle. At night, we enjoyed watching the birds by the outdoor fireplace.

Spring Bungalow

Castle Hot Springs features three pools that are fed by natural hot springs: the top one, which is closest to the spring, is the hottest. The second one is a little less hot, and there is a medium-temperature pool where water therapy and SUP yoga are conducted. We elected just to soak in the waters!

Lodge and pool area

Lest you think this is just a wellness resort, it is much more. The food and drink offer a serious dose of hedonism! Many of the fruits, vegetables, and herbs are sourced from the resort’s own farm. Dinner is a five-course affair with a choice of entrées. We had beef one night, and fish the next—both were beautifully prepared. And we loved the mixologist’s fresh take on cocktails using ingredients from the farm. My favorite meal was breakfast. Fresh breads, local eggs, herbs, and vegetables made a welcome start to both days.

Breakfast

There are a plethora of activities offered, like hiking, yoga, and archery. We had massages in cabanas by the stream. We also enjoyed learning about the history of the resort. But the best part was the hot springs and the swimming pool, which is also fed by the spring.

Hot springs pool

Accommodations include wine, tea and coffee, snacks, and complimentary water bottles. There is no television, and I promise you will not miss it.

You’ll need a high-clearance vehicle (like an SUV) for the trip in. You can also travel in style via helicopter. It is remote, but the resort does a great job of keeping necessities on hand for guests. And by necessities, I mean a really good wine list. Seriously, if you need something, they can get it for you.

There are two types of accommodations: Spring Bungalows and Skyview Cabins. The Spring Bungalows are a little bigger with indoor/outdoor fireplaces. The Skyview Cabins feature front porches and stunning landscape views. Both accommodations feature outdoor tubs fed by the spring. Guests can stay for either two or five nights. We are planning to return for five nights. Phoenix is a direct flight from many US airports.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Arizona page.