Relaxing on the terrace of the CIVANA Spa in Carefree, Arizona with a glass of wine in my hand, I watch as the sun sets over the desert, creating an imposing background for the palm trees and Saguaro cacti. This is my favorite time of day and I can’t think of a better place to be.

Sunset at Civana

CIVANA Resort and Spa checks off all the things I love about getting away from it all. Its beautiful desert environment and close proximity to two charming little towns, make it the perfect destination. The layout of the property is great with everything convenient to the rooms, and the spa is extraordinary. This is a solid four-star resort, modern, comfortable but not ultra-luxe. It boasts a reasonable price tag and in lieu of the normal resort fee, you pay an Experience fee loaded with value.

CIVANA Activities

CIVANA bills itself as a wellness resort. All the activities, food and spa facilities focus on wellbeing. And, your Experience fee includes use of all the spa facilities, stainless steel water bottles, hourly shuttle service into Carefree and Cave Creek, WIFI, state of the art fitness center and a myriad of classes every day, so there is certain to be a selection perfect for you.

The resort’s Activities Director posts upcoming classes each evening so you can sign up for the next day's programs. If you love the outdoors and hiking is your thing, you might opt for a guided hike, or perhaps a photography hike. You can follow this a with a yoga or stretching class. If you prefer to relax and enjoy quiet activities, you can opt for chair yoga, a nutrition clinic or smoothie making. If golf is your thing . . . plenty of courses nearby to choose from,

Classes

Each day, classes run hourly from 7am until 5pm. Choose from easy to difficult hikes, several different types of yoga, and strength training. You can opt for a spinning class or a mountain biking class - or perhaps both. Since I'm here to rest and relax, I chose a guided relaxation class, learned how to make a perfect smoothie, and took in a culinary class.

Yoga Class at Civana

CIVANA Spa

The new free-standing 22,000 square foot spa is a dream. In addition to the treatment facilities, it features a hydrotherapy thermal circuit. Called the Aqua Vitality Circuit, it is located in the center of the facility. I began my experience there. First a refreshing shower, then a "journey" through waters of varying temperatures. I started with a warm soak in the vitality pool, then waded through hot and cold walking pools. Then I stopped in the dry sanarium, followed by a cold deluge shower. Wow! I felt great.

Next came that long awaited massage, followed by floating meditation in the spa pool.

Dining

CIVANA has two restaurants - Terras and Cafe Meto serving fresh farm-to-table food that is not only delicious, but nutritious too. Each day, with the exception of Fridays, you can enjoy special dining events. For you meat lovers, Saturdays feature a prime rib special and Thursday is burger night. Sundays feature brunch from 8am till noon. If you love your wine - you'll love Wine Down Wednesday with specially priced wines and charcuterie boards.

Nearby the resort, you'll find many fun restaurants. For a great southwestern experience, try the Horney Toad or Buffalo Chip Saloon in Cave Creek. You can have a true "British High Tea" at the English Rose Tea Room in Carefree. Be sure to make a reservation for tea, as it is very popular with the locals.

Town of Carefree

Take the resort shuttle to the charming town of Carefree. Here, not far from the tea room, you'll find the Carefree Sundial, one of the largest sundials in the United States. Visit the Carefree Desert Gardens and the historic Spanish Village. Throughout the year you'll find annual fairs, weekly markets and events happening in the town. For a calendar of events check the Carefree website.

 Town of Cave Creek

Cave Creek is known for its western lifestyle, fun eateries, and dramatic views. Take a horseback riding tour and explore Cave Creek Regional Park. Explore the historic Spur Cross Ranch and its fascinating archaeological sites. See a full list of things to do on the Cave Creek tourism website.

For More About CIVANA

Contact us for more information about the resort, or to make a reservation at CIVANA:  Coastline Travel Advisors.