Stay Here: This Minimalist Desert Resort Is a Centre for Holistic Wellness
If you've ever dreamed of sleeping under the stars miles away from the bright lights of the city in an untouched natural oasis, then you'll want to make a booking at Amangiri—which translates to 'peaceful mountain'. This private and luxurious resort is located in the rocky canyons of Southwest USA, at the Utah-Arizona border and looks like the best possible way to catch up on some rest and relaxation, in one of the dedicated suites, the impressive four-bedroom Mesa Home or in the soon to be released tented pavilions. Blending the rugged landscape of the Wild West and sleek architecture, Amangiri needs to be on your 2020 destination list.
Nestled between the dunes, plateaus and mountain ranges of Canyon Point, the resort offers all of the luxurious of a boutique hotel with the atmosphere of a tropical resort and the privacy of a personal residence. Each of the sprawling rooms have access to their very own outdoor courtyards where incredible natural vistas will keep you staring for hours as the skies turn from ochre to peach and finally showcase a mass of luminous stars after twilight. The stunning spaces throughout the resort have been designed with a raw and simplified aesthetic that's contemporary and organic, which provides a beautiful contrast to the wild and dramatic landscape that steals time after time. Clean lines, light timbers and concrete touches keep things comfortable and cool, while rattan textures and soft neutral tones lull you into a state of ultimate relaxation.
The architecture of the resort is complementary to its untouched surrounds, appearing as a low-lying form that's unassuming and becomes one with the environment. The Navajo term hózhó roughly translates to restoring the balance, harmony and spirit—and this motto has been incorporated into all decisions surrounding the design and construction of the hotel. The desert landscape on which Amangiri sits holds immense cultural significance and the architects behind the hotel have been careful to tread as lightly as possible. Using natural stones and timber materials that blend in with the natural surrounds, you feel like you're deep in the centre of something very special and sacred. In an incredible feat of engineering, the main pool has even been crafted to curve around a huge rock escarpment that becomes a staggering organic feature.
When it comes to wellness, you've come to the right place. The Aman Spa offers an extensive treatment list, using traditional healing traditions of the Navajo that incorporate the four elements of earth, wind, water and fire. Whether you're rejuvenating your mind and body in the water pavilion, on the outdoor treatment terrace or working up a sweat in the yoga and pilates studio, you can't help but feel lighter and restored from time spent in this sprawling wellness centre. After that, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to local activities, with hiking, horseback riding and kayaking in the local desert available at your fingertips. To finish the day, lay low by the pool and take in the awe-inspiring wild beauty of the valley or treat yourself to a seasonal and sustainable meal in the dining room where floor to ceiling windows will make sure you never miss a sunset.
Images courtesy of Amangiri.
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