Located in the Colorado Plateau is a unique resort: Amangiri. The point where Arizona, Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico touch is a broad expanse of land that showcases amazing eroded rock formations that exemplify the power of moving earth over many millions of years to yield a sparse but astonishingly unique landscape that is peaceful and unusual. It seems like a strange location for a luxury resort, but in the midst of this sits Amangiri which means “peaceful mountain”.
The resort covers over 600 acres of this rustic landscape and sits at the base of the Grand Staircase, Escalante National Monument. The central point of the resort is the expansive central pool that is serene and wide, almost like a giant lake in the middle of Mars type landscape.
Amangiri’s Aman Spa features a floatation therapy pavilion, water pavilion with sauna, steam room, cold plunge and step pool, a fitness center, and a yoga pavilion. The 25,000-square foot Aman Spa is a vast complex of stone and water features and streams of light, offering a number of unique treatment venues. There is also a steam room, a dry sauna, and a cold plunge pool. There are individual sauna treatment rooms as well as couples facilities and outdoor treatment areas. The landscape of the resort is part of the spa treatment and so many features of the resort incorporate the surrounding rock formations and vistas.
Another feature is the Desert Lounge. With comfortable seating that can be arranged to accommodate any group or individual, the lighting is kept at a low level in order to enhance the stars that are visible in the night sky. With no city lights for hundreds of miles, the brilliant night sky seems close enough to touch.
There are seven different types of suites to choose from, each with their own unique appeal. The Desert Suite has uninterrupted views of the dunes and plateaus. The Mesa Suite offers panoramic views of the surrounding mesas which are particularly spectacular at sunset. These suites enjoy uninterrupted views of the valley’s dunes and plateaus. The Terrace Suite offers a unique and intimate view of the mountain ridge and rock escarpment. The two Desert Pool Suites offer larger private pools measuring 16 by 14 feet, private sky terraces, and views of dunes and plateaus. Each Mesa Pool Suite features a private plunge pool, and a private sky terrace accessed via a flight of stairs. There are also two villas, the Girijaala suite and the Amangiri Villa. Each with their own private courtyard entrances they take full advantage of the stark and wonderful surrounding rock formations.
With so much beauty and high end amenities, you may not want to do anything but visit the spa and lounge by the pool. But there is so much to do in this area, which may come as a surprise to some. Home for centuries to the native Navajo and Hopi tribes, guests can explore the region with expert archaeologists, geologists, and naturalists on guided hikes or horseback rides. Archeological artifacts have regularly been found by the guests while out and about on the various trails and hiking paths. There are numerous trails for the very inexperienced hiker to the advanced hiker looking for a challenge.
In addition to hiking and horseback trails, there is the wondrous and famous Grand Canyon nearby. The beauty and majesty of this park must be seen to be truly appreciated. Also close to Amangiri is Bryce Canyon National Park and Monument Valley. Unique and stunning, they must be appreciated for the unique rock and land formations that beckon travelers from all over the world.
Lake Powell and the Colorado River are also near to this resort. White water rafting and boating excursions are available along with spectacular options for the fisherman. Private hot air balloon rides and scenic plane rides can be arranged for those that wish to get above the earth to appreciate the scenery.And after a long day of hiking, fishing or boating, you can return to the enclave of your resort for yoga and pilates to ease the muscles followed by dining among the stars and a midnight dip in the pool.
The Amangiri resort is truly one of a kind. The natural surroundings make it an excellent option to truly get away from the world and immerse oneself in the nature that was created millions of years ago. Amangiri has to be experienced.
Photos from amanresorts.com
