Castle Hot Springs: History, Wellness, Food, Luxury
Castle Hot Springs is absolutely perfect for the history buff, the foodie, the wellness junkie and the luxury lover.
No joke – it checks ALL of the boxes. Skinny Dip rating = 4.8 / 5.
THE SKINNY ON
Castle Hot Springs
Castle Hot Springs is just an hour away from Phoenix, yet it feels like it’s a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is truly a magical little oasis, an experience you won’t soon forget. From the peaceful setting to the luxurious accommodations, the incredible food to the wellness inclusions – you’re going to leave this property feeling better than when you arrived.
THE LOCATION
Just an hour from Phoenix in the Bradshaw Mountains. The last 7 miles of the drive is all dirt road (quite rugged, I might add). There’s a feeling of, “where in the hell are we going,” until you see it. Out of nowhere, in the middle of the mountains, pops a stunning lush property. Beautifully manicured, palm trees, gardens, a completely inviting pool and gorgeous historic buildings.
Car service from the Phoenix airport can be arranged or if you want to arrive in total style, opt for the helicopter transfer.
Photo Credit: Castle Hot Springs Website
THE HISTORY
Wow – the story of this property is exciting. The Hot Springs are the heart and soul of this property and they always have been. The hot springs have been utilized for hundreds of years for their healing properties and this became a wellness resort in the 1800’s. Celebrities and dignitaries travelled from all over the world to experience the healing benefits of the springs. Some of the first well-known personalities included the Rockefellers, the Vanderbilts and the Astors, President Roosevelt and President John F. Kennedy. The property was also used as a rehab. Center to treat wounded veterans during WW2.
In 1976, there was a terrible fire, which burned down the main Palm House of the property, and the property was left in shambles. An Arizona couple rebuilt Castle Hot Springs in 2019 and their goal was to bring it back to it’s original glory. They succeeded.
THE FOOD
Absolute perfection. I’m drooling thinking about all of my meals at Castle Hot Springs. It’s impossible to get more farm to fork than this. They have an amazing farm, where almost all of the produce is sourced from. The entrance is lined with citrus trees. I’m not just talking about oranges and lemons – they grow mandarin oranges, blood oranges, Tangelos, Buddha’s Hand lemons, Kumquats, Pummelo’s…. You get the picture. The master Farmer grows every kind of herb imaginable, every and any fruit and vegetable possible, and he even breeds new kinds of tomatoes in their massive greenhouse. You get to taste all of these amazing items on the farm tour, which I highly recommend.
The Executive Chef and Sous Chef are young and incredibly talented. They use the freshest ingredients possible to create dishes for that day. When speaking with the owner, I found out the Chef hand picks seafood and meats and gets seafood flown in overnight. As you can imagine, these ingredients mean incredibly flavorful dishes. It was so fun seeing all of the ingredients in the garden that day, end up on my plate at night. I cannot express how wonderful every single meal was here. The best part?? All meals and snacks are included in nightly rates at Castle Hot Springs. This includes – s’mores by the fire, lunch by the pool, and a 5* dinner in the historic Palm House.
THE DRINKS
Like the Chefs and Farmers, the Mixologists are super passionate about what they do – and it shows. The mixology team works with the farmers to utilize the freshest of ingredients to make fresh syrups, new concoctions, garnishes and just a straight up beautiful drink. They offer mixology classes, which are super fun and like every other aspect of this hotel, they’ll make something incredibly customized to satisfy your unique palate.
THE “ROOMS”
I call these rooms, but they’re really amazing little cabins. So incredible cozy, with fireplaces inside and out, a toilet that is smarter than some humans, a bed so dreamy you may sleep until 10 and my favorite part: the outdoor soaking tub. Your outdoor space is enclosed, so no need to be shy – these fabulous tubs are spring fed, so you can enjoy the healing property of the waters right from your own cabin. It’s so amazing looking at the bright Arizona sky, feeling the breeze on your skin, and soaking in wonderfully warm water. Rooms are romantic and cozy, but also perfect for a couple of friends getting away for a fun weekend!
THE ACTIVITIES
Spa: When I heard the spa services were outside, I thought it was a little interesting. I pictured a tiny tent next to the springs, but was I wrong. The tents are beautiful little massage rooms, with everything you would expect in a traditional luxury spa. The therapists were wonderful and you could hear the sound of the springs, during your treatment. It was private, yet you felt like you were soaking up nature.
Horseback riding, hiking, Four-wheeling, meditation, yoga, paddle boarding, boating (there’s a lake nearby), climbing, helicopter tours, you name it. Everything is totally customized – so if you ask for it, and they can make it happen, the staff at Castle Hot Springs will do it. Getting the picture? You want it, they’ll try to accommodate your needs. If you feel like relaxing? Head out to the pool or cozy up to one of the MANY firepits on property.
THE SPRINGS
DUHHHH. They’re the highlight. That’s why I am saving them for last. You can take a dip in the springs any time your heart desires. They aren’t closed at 10 pm, like many pools at other hotels. The Springs are open day AND night just for you. Imagine grabbing your travel partner, a glass of wine, and dipping into the hot springs on a clear AZ night – stars glimmering above. Magical.
The Springs are full of minerals and are said to have many healing benefits. You’ll feel instantly relaxed and rejuvenated. If you don’t spend take multiple walks up to the springs daily here, you’re missing out!
BEST FOR:
Couples, Friends, Multi-Gen Families, Weddings, Corporate Retreats
BEST TIME TO GO:
November – May
PRICE:
Rates start at $900 / night, but all meals and snacks are included as well as a number of activities (hot springs, wellness classes, farm tours, guided hikes).
