If you’re looking to escape the everyday crazy without having to go too far, you’re in luck. Carefree’s newest resort CIVANA is a wellness-focused retreat with an amazing spa, healthy (and still so delicious) food, calm rooms and daily wellness programming, from fitness classes to art activities, hiking and more. We paid the desert sanctuary a recent visit to unwind and recharge.
One look at CIVANA and I was already zen-ed out. The resort is quiet and surrounded by the calm Sonoran Desert. Accommodations mirrored the resort’s mission of relaxing visitors. Light and airy rooms are clutter free, with a neutral palette to soothe any weary traveler. My room had a king bed facing the balcony, offering up plenty of desert views from under the cozy covers, and the spacious spa bathroom was the cherry on top. For larger groups, the Tranquility Suite is ideal, complete with a kitchen and living area.
A visit to CIVANA would be incomplete without a stop at the standout spa. The two-story 22,000-square-foot escape offers an array of stress-relieving treatments. I experienced the 90-minute Energy Aligning Chi Signature Massage. After a full body exfoliation, I was treated to a complete body massage incorporating 10 different aromatherapy blends to treat the senses. Even my feet and scalp got some much-needed TLC. The spa also has the dreamiest of relaxation rooms that leads out to a balcony with mountain views. On the lower level outdoors, there’s a spa pool and sundeck, and indoors you’ll find a steam room, a thermal pool, hot and cold walking circuit, cold plunge shower, sanarium and Watsu pool. Adjacent to the spa is Cafe Meto, perfect for a post-treatment snack or coffee.
The wellness doesn’t stop there though. Even the cuisine is health-focused, to make reaching your goals a little bit easier and tastier. At signature Terras restaurant, menu items are marked with words like “power-food,” “nourish” and “comfort” to help diners pick what they need. I opted for the drool-worthy seared scallops with cauliflower risotto and wine, because it’s all about balance right? I happened to visit the resort during Arizona’s polar freeze (there were patches of snow on the ground), so a night dip in the Jacuzzi post-dinner was a definite highlight of my stay and the perfect way to chill out and warm up.
Guest at CIVANA also have an array of wellness opportunities at their fingertips. Facilities include six fitness and movement studios, a yoga lawn, indoor cycling and state-of-the-art gym. Set out on a guided hike, partake in meditation or sound bathing, work up a sweat during HIIT or enjoy a juicing class, the options are endless. The best part? Guests can enjoy up to 12 complimentary wellbeing classes daily.
Group Incentive Offer
CIVANA is the perfect place for a group escape. Whether it’s a corporate gathering, yoga retreat or girl’s getaway, CIVANA offers one of the following complimentary for those booking 12 or more rooms by July 2019:
- One hour welcome reception
- 50 minute private juicing or smoothie class
- 50 minute private meditation or sound bath
- 50 minute private wellness activity
- 75 minute Healing Plants of the Desert hike
Group guests also score 15-percent off spa treatments.
For more information, visit: civanacarefree.com
Photos: CIVANA
