Surrounded by the timeless allure of the Sonoran Desert, Castle Hot Springs captivates guests with the incredible beauty of Arizona, delighting the senses and the mind. As the English Romantic poet John Keats wrote, “a thing of beauty is a joy forever.” Here are 10 ways to discover moments of beauty at Castle Hot Springs that will create memories for a lifetime.
1. Soak in the natural hot springs
Carved from rock in a stunning canyon setting, the naturally-occurring hot springs of geothermally-heated water draw their healing powers from deep within the earth. One only has to step into the sandy-bottom pools to feel the soothing embrace of mineral-rich water. Many credit a soak with alleviating stress, pain and headaches and improving sleep. Three different pools range in temperature from 86 degrees to 106 degrees.
Relax and surrender to the curative powers of water beneath towering palms and the sound of gently cascading water.
2. Stroll through the botanical gardens
From the moment you enter this desert oasis through a dramatic allée of palm trees, the lushness of the botanical gardens takes your breath away. Thirty-five varieties of citrus trees grow here, including lemon, orange, lime, grapefruit, pomelo, kumquat, tangerine and blood orange. There are thirty different species of agave of varying sizes, and an onsite agave farm that’s nurturing nine varieties of agave to eventually produce a mezcal-style libation. Take the landscape tour to learn more about plant design, selection and maintenance.
3. Sight desert wildlife
A variety of wildlife has evolved to thrive in the Sonoran Desert. Among them, the Javelina, a small, hoofed creature that travels in family groups and can often be seen grazing on the grass. You might catch a glimpse of sweet-faced burros (wild donkeys) on the drive into the resort. Spot jackrabbits hopping near the hiking trails and red-tailed hawks soaring in the sky. Come evening, listen for nocturnal creatures like the yipping coyote and the hooting of the majestic Great Horned Owl who often likes to perch atop a saguaro.
4. Hike scenic trails
Desert hiking is one of the best ways to connect with Arizona’s nature and improve physical and mental well-being. Castle Hot Springs’ nine hiking trails wind through stunning desert landscapes of mountain peaks, saguaro-studded hills and narrow canyons. The enormity and quiet of the Sonoran Desert are mesmerizing.
5. Stargaze
Gazing at the Milky Way can leave you awestruck at the vastness of the universe. Sadly, many people can’t view the galaxy due to light pollution. Come to Castle Hot Springs, tucked in the Bradshaw Mountains far from city lights, where a dark sky reveals billions of stars. Book a Sky View Cabin, which is especially well-suited for stargazing with unobstructed sky above and soaking tub on the deck.
6. Ride an E-bike
Take in the view from an E-bike while cruising through desert canyons and off-road terrain. Fat-tire E-bikes will help you glide up hills and go farther, faster. The introductory tour travels around resort grounds while more advanced tours go deeper into the mountains with stops at scenic viewpoints along the way.
7. Climb the Via Ferrata
Get an eagle’s view of the majestic mountain and desert environment by climbing the Via Ferrata. Scale a 400-foot-tall wall to the peak and traverse a 200-foot-long aerial walkway high above the canyon floor before summiting Castle Peak. Master this and more jaw-dropping views await on the West Wall Via Ferrata.
8. Reach Salvation Peak
Walk in the footsteps of World War II service members to the top of Salvation Peak, where the flagpole is planted. The trail gains 850 feet in elevation in just over a mile, but the climb is rewarded at the top with amazing views of Lake Pleasant, the mountains and the lush resort far below.
9. Paint en plein air
Painting begins with slowing down and observing the light, shadow and colors. When done outdoors, en plein air, in the style of the Impressionists, you also get to enjoy being in the beautiful Arizona nature. Castle Hot Springs offers a Hike and Paint class upon request.
10. Tour the Farm
Tasting food that’s fresh from the garden and bursting with flavor is a beautiful way to enjoy the season’s bounty. Three acres of the resort are cultivated with more than 150 edible crops for the restaurant, including vegetables, herbs and edible flowers. “Flavor farmers” tend the crops using regenerative agricultural practices and proudly offer tours and gardening tips to guests.
Castle Hot Springs offers an enchanting escape that connects guests with the natural wonders of the Sonoran Desert, leaving a lasting impression of tranquility and awe. Whether it’s soaking in the healing waters of the natural hot springs, exploring the vibrant botanical gardens, or marveling at the starry night sky, each experience is designed to immerse you in the beauty and serenity of the desert landscape