In the remote desert of southern Utah, where dramatic rock formations and water-carved canyons create a lunar-like terrain, lies the unrivaled luxury hotel, Amangiri. Considered the crown jewel of the Aman properties in the Americas, Amangiri’s industry awards include numerous “Best Resort in North America” and “Best Spa” accolades. On 600+ private acres, the hotel sits curled up next to a majestic rock formation, as if carved out of the sandstone itself. The buildings stare out at an endless desert vista framed by wind-sculpted canyons.
Attracting both outdoor adventure-lovers and privacy-seekers, Amangiri’s combination of location, experiences, service, and design make it one the most unique and impressive luxury hotels in the world.
Approximately 4 hours from both the Las Vegas and Phoenix airports, Amangiri is located in Canyon Point, Utah – just a stone’s throw from the Arizona border. Those who have visited know, the Utah-Arizona border is easily one the most beautiful regions in all of the United States.
Surrounding Amangiri within a 2.5 hour radius, lies the Grand Canyon, Zion National Park, Bryce National park, Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon, Glen Canyon, Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend… and so much more. It’s the most consolidated offering of American natural wonders in one place, and Amangiri sits at the center.
Driving to the hotel, only a small easily-missable sign indicates the turn off from Highway 89. With nothing but canyons in sight, you follow the lone road until you reach a small rod iron gate with a simple metal call-box.
After giving your name, a friendly voice chimes, “Yes, we have been expecting you! Welcome, please come in”. The iron ranch gates open and you continue on a mile-long drive, twisting around mesmerizing rock formations until you’ve wound yourself into the private world that is Amangiri.
Multiple friendly faces and welcoming waves greet you upon pulling in. Your car and bags will be taken care of right way, so all you need to do is walk straight into paradise.
The lobby entranceway sets the tone for the hotel’s overall theme: let the surrounding landscape steal the show. The signature indoor-outdoor design consists of open air spaces, floor-to-ceiling windows, modern rectangular lines and stark materials, like concrete and stone, are accented by blackened steal finishings. Well-placed fountains and hidden water features emit the soothing sounds of water in motion at every turn.
Amangiri’s modern concrete walls essentially serve as picture frames for the changing pink, purple and yellow desert hues as the sun moves across the unpolluted sky.
Entering the Desert View Pool Suite, you walk through a covered concrete passageway with a cushioned seating area carved into the corner. Coming back into the sunlight, you’ve now entered your own personal oasis with private pool area to your right, sliding glass doors to the room straight ahead, and a concrete stairway on your left leads up to your own private stargazing terrace. Stepping into the room, the cool stone and concrete materials seem softened by plush white linens and locally made goods, like Native American art, woven tote bags, walking sticks, and sun hats.
Our favorite part of the room was the desert terrace. The entire glass wall opens to the outdoors, where mile after mile of obstructed views unfold before you. Enjoy the most glorious painted skies of sunrise and sunset sprawled out the white terrace cushions next to the fire. Have a cocktail there before dinner or order breakfast hot to the room first thing in the morning. Their beloved cast iron pancake can’t be missed, and they’ll even ask you how you like your bacon – details! (And extra crispy, of course).
Eventually, pull yourself away from the room and either head to the spa, lay by the pool, or embark on guided Via Feratta hike. You’ll want to experience all three because they’re equally incredible.
Begin with the Via Ferrata hike to get the outdoor adventure aspect of the trip started. With 600 acres of playground, Amangiri’s coolest offering is the 4 Via Ferrata hikes on property. Via Ferrata means ‘Iron Road’ in Italian; it references a style of climbing originating in the Italian Alps that entails metal ladder rungs and fixed cables anchored into the rock. We loved the exhilarating Hoo Doo Trail which included fun challenging climbs, incredible mountain top views, and one harrowingly high bridge walk across a deep gorge.
After some outdoor adventure, you’ll have earned a trip to the spa. Indulgent treatments, hot tubs carved into rocks, eucalyptus steam rooms, massive saunas, and private relaxations spaces await you. While we haven’t been to a spa on the moon, this has to be the closest Earthly alternative.
Last but certainly not least, spend some time lounging by the Amangiri’s unforgettable pool. Pristine white daybeds line the cerulean pool, beautifully carved around a protruding canyon wall. Have a swim in the heated water, order plenty of spicy margaritas, and try to control yourself from taking pictures every five seconds. We dare you!
The restaurant at Amangiri is in the main building with floor-to-ceiling windows, cozy fireplace areas, and views of the desert vista on one side and the pool on the other. Our favorite dining experience was at the chef’s counter next to the open kitchen. Dine while watching the chef make Native American fry bread and grill elk in the flames of his wood-fired oven. Meals are included in the price at Amangiri, so enjoy the delicious Southwest-inspired cuisine as much as you can!
An amazing hotel experience coupled with such close proximity to natural wonders (Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce, Antelope Canyon, etc), easily makes Amangiri one the best resorts in the world.
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