Amangiri, Canyon Point

Amangiri, literally meaning peaceful mountain, is centerd around the incredible free form swimming pool built into the surrounding cliff face which seems to flow from within the rock itself. Combining natural hues, textures and designs, the resort’s limestone pavilions provide a cool oasis in the heart of the south-west desert. The spa is most certainly worth a mention with an overwater sauna pavilion and an ultra-modern floating treatment pagoda. The rooms (really more like apartments) are spread generously around the grounds offering stunning views of the desert as well as the utmost privacy. So what to do? Well…be sure to take a private river tour on the mighty Colorado River with a gourmet picnic lunch on its banks to boot. Starting at the base of the Glen Canyon dam, drift downstream between the thousand-foot cliffs on either side, perhaps stopping off for a scenic hike along the way.

location

Amangiri sits in 600 acres of prime desert landscape in Canyon Point, Southern Utah. Overlooking the vast striations of the Giant Staircase Escalante National Park, there are few settings quite like it and whilst its buildings may match up to the immense surroundings, the hotel itself is tucked serenely into a protected valley and is a haven of peace and tranquillity.

your room

Even before you step inside your bespoke suite, you will know that you’re entering somewhere pretty special. Accessed through a private courtyard, your room seamlessly blends dark wood fittings with huge glass windows and screens.  Inside your spacious abode, there is a separate sitting room and bedroom as well as a private patio; the perfect spot to admire the desert with a glass of something tasty to hand. Behind the glass doors, you’ll then find your oversized dressing room and bathroom with not one but two rainfall showers to make for something that is truly as grand as the setting demands.

why we like it

It’s got to be the early morning hot air balloon flight taking off right outside our room and soaring over the Vermillion Cliffs, Lake Powell and Navajo Mountain. Peace, tranquillity and sitting down to a waiting champagne breakfast…not a bad start to the day. With the start of the day sorted, thoughts turn to the end of the day where a private tour of the Aman wine cellar followed by a barbecue under the stars with your own personal chef is an offer that’s hard to resist.

Sustainability

Designed to integrate into the Navajo Nation Reservation, Amangiri has a strong focus on sustainability. From the organic farm-to-table approach within its dining to its recycling program and ban on plastic. Conservation is at the forefront, with environmentally-friendly fire pits within the rooms and geothermal heating and cooling systems.