Editors' Picks

Castle Hot Springs Resort

cabins, charming, hot springs

5050 E Castle Hot Springs, Castle Hot Springs 85342

928-501-1001

See Website

At a Glance

Nestled in the heart of Arizona's Sonoran desert, Castle Hot Springs is an adults-only boutique resort with farm-to-table dining and a plethora of activities, including soaks in the natural hot springs that gave the property its name.

Indagare Loves

  • The three natural hot spring pools, which range from lukewarm to hot tub-hot
  • The three-acre organic vegetable and fruit garden, which supplies the kitchen and can be toured
  • The range of activities, which include guided hiking, horseback riding, a via ferrata climbing course, yoga and shooting

Review

A legendary retreat, with a storied reputation for the healing powers of its natural hot springs, Castle Hot Springs, first opened in 1896 and later attracted Hollywood stars and East Coast tycoons in the early of the 20th century. Even John F. Kennedy came to the resort, which lies 50 miles from Phoenix, to soak in the mineral waters before he became president. Now after a 40-year closure and millions of dollars of reinvestment, the property has been reopened with much of its original charm intact, along with some serious improvements. Thanks in part to the winding dirt road that leads to the property, Castle Hot Springs feels far removed from civilization, and unplugging is encouraged, though there is WiFi. An alley of towering palm trees lines the main drive, leading to the bright yellow farmhouse building that houses the reception area, bar and Harvest restaurant, where all meals are served. The farmhouse overlooks a swimming pool and the large organic garden and greenhouses, which supply much of the farm-to-table cuisine. Scattered around the 210-acre resort are 30 guest cabins, all of which feature fireplaces and outdoor tubs with waters pumped directly from the hot springs for private soaking in the 120 degree mineral waters (which have been touted to help cure rheumatism and gout). Most guests choose to walk or ride golf carts up to the palm-shaded outdoor pools either before or after a visit to the massage tents. More vigorous activities include horseback riding, hiking, rock climbing, shooting or testing your nerves on the aerial walkway or via ferrata course. But there is also an intentional wellness program featuring a range of yoga and mindfulness classes, so body and mind can be healed. Pick your pleasure.

Getting There

Castle Hot Springs is a one-hour drive from Phoenix, but the last seven miles are on a rough dirt road, so it is best to arrange for a vehicle with all-terrain tires to transport you to and from the property.

 Related 10 Ultimate Wilderness Vacations

Written by Melissa Biggs Bradley

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