Civana Resort: The Ultimate Arizona Wellness Getaway

TRIP OVERVIEW

My first-ever journey as a travel advisor was a delightful revelation, and Civana proved to be a charming surprise. Situated in an idyllic location, this resort exceeded my expectations and I relished every moment of my visit. Choosing to explore Civana in August, the off-peak season due to Arizona's high temperatures, added an extra layer of excitement to my adventure. Allow me to share my personal account of the Civana resort experience.

LOCATION

One of the most captivating aspects of Civana Wellness Resort is its ideal location. Situated in the serene town of Carefree, Arizona this wellness retreat spans 20 acres of lush landscapes, providing a serene escape from the bustling world.

For those new to the concept of unplugging like myself, the charm of Carefree offers a wealth of experiences within its quaint confines. This picturesque town has something for everyone. It's renowned for hosting one of the world's largest sundials and offers an array of souvenir shops.

As the day turns into night, you can groove to live music and partake in other thrilling activities. However, if you're seeking a dose of urban vitality, the bustling cities of Scottsdale and Phoenix are just a short drive away, ready to infuse your journey with even more vibrancy.

ROOM CATEGORIES

Civana Wellness Resort offers a range of thoughtfully designed accommodations to cater to various preferences and needs. Their room categories provide a perfect blend of comfort and tranquility. Below is a brief description of the rooms:

Double Queen: Contemporary room featuring two queen-sized beds, a cozy seating area, and a private walkout patio or balcony.

One-Bedroom Suite: This space features an outdoor patio, a spacious living and dining area, a private king bedroom, and two bathrooms.

Spa King: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Continental Mountains and elevate your bathing experience.

King: Seating area for two and private walkout patio or balcony.

Double Queen Patio: Ground floor patio and in-room complimentary bikes.

I booked a Double Queen room, which provided ample space for both me and my travel companion. The room featured a cozy sitting area, enough room to squeeze in an in-room workout, and a lovely balcony. The shower was impressively spacious, and everything was impeccably clean. The property was also well-maintained throughout our stay. For my next visit to Civana, I'm considering booking a suite.

Every guest, regardless of their room choice, can enjoy daily wellness activities, spanning mindfulness, movement, culinary experiences, personal growth sessions, outdoor adventures, and creative arts. Each day, you can expect fresh water along with a convenient coffee and tea station. If you want to borrow bikes, head to the Bellhop station.

I particularly appreciated the spacious wardrobe, as a fashion stylist, this amenity was greatly appreciated and met my needs perfectly.

AMENITIES

The property boasts numerous amenities with ample room for wandering, reflection and relaxation. If you're a fan of the spa, you can indulge in treatments and unwind by their private pool. Civana's water is simply the best as they provide free water stations on the property, and it's absolutely delicious. I've never felt so well-hydrated in my life.

When it comes to dining, they offer two options. For Terras, their dine-in restaurant, it's a good idea to make dinner reservations, and you can come as you are without any judgment. I spent the most time at Seed, their cafe, and you can have food and drinks delivered to the pool on most days.

There's also a fitness center, a spacious pool and plenty of peaceful spots to unwind.

SAMPLE DAILY ITINERARY

Civana offers numerous ways to enjoy your stay. I pre-booked two classes per day, as per the guidelines, and on the day of my arrival, I promptly scheduled the remaining classes through the system. Booking classes in advance is essential, ensuring I could secure a spot in every class I desired.

Morning: Start your day with a sunrise meditation session. Head over to Seed Cafe + Market and grab a smoothie followed by a gentle yoga class to align your energy for the day ahead.

Afternoon: Nourish your body with a wholesome farm-to-table lunch at Terras Restaurant. Engage in a wellness workshop to deepen your understanding of mindfulness and self-care.

Evening: Relax by the pool or join a sunset meditation to unwind. Indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment to release tension and foster relaxation. Complete your day with a delectable dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients.

WHAT TO BRING

Being my first wellness resort experience, I may have overpacked, but here are some essential items to consider when visiting:

Activewear: Comfortable workout attire for yoga and fitness sessions. Bring at least 2 workout outfits per day. Bring a fitness towel.

Resort Wear: Casual, loose clothing. Swimwear for pool relaxation.

Protection: Sunscreen and a hat for outdoor activities.

Civana provides a complimentary water bottle and a journal. In case you leave anything behind, there are two on-site shops within the property. During my visit, I couldn't resist picking up two hats, a journal and a lip scrub from their spa retail store.

GETTING AROUND

Civana is a little oasis in Carefree. When you want to venture out, you've got a few options. You can take a walk or bike downtown, it's a straight shot down the road. But, be cautious and only do this if it's cool outside because the heat can make it tough to do anything. I tried a mix of transportation options, including a personal driver and golf carts.

Each has its perks. Golf carts are perfect for nearby trips to town, while a personal driver is best for places farther away. If you plan on exploring more, you can also consider renting a car.

FINAL THOUGHTS

My experience at Civana was truly exceptional, offering a perfect blend of serenity and enjoyment. Being in a place where everyone shares a common goal was a real blessing. I relished the semi-secluded atmosphere, the flawless weather, the pure air, and the consistently helpful and knowledgeable staff. It was a truly enjoyable experience.

Civana epitomizes the ultimate destination for those in search of a luxurious yet unpretentious wellness experience. Whether you're new to resort getaways or a seasoned traveler, this is the perfect haven for you. With its attentive staff, exquisite surroundings and the warm hospitality of the nearby town, Civana crafts an unforgettable and accessible escape.

Feel free to reach out and let's collaborate to curate a personalized itinerary that adds a touch of luxury to your journey. Complete with seamless ground transportation for your utmost convenience.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Arizona. In need of further inspiration? Check out Eunice Kindred’s guide, Wellness & Adventure in Sedona, Arizona.