In Arizona’s Bradshaw Mountains, an hour from Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX), lies the watery oasis of Castle Hot Springs.
Airport proximity wasn’t something the first guests traveling to the springs concerned themselves with, however. Back in the late 19th century when celebrity guests, including members of the Vanderbilt, Astor and Roosevelt families, headed west for a hot soak, they had to embark on a five-hour stagecoach journey across bumpy, unpaved roads. Even before then, members of the Apache and Yavapai tribes were already reaping the health benefits of the hot water.
The waters found at Castle Hot Springs flow from deep within the Earth at a temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit, marking them as the world’s steamiest non-volcanic natural springs. The thermal waters are rich in minerals such as lithium, copper and iron and have long drawn travelers in search of relief from ailments, including gout, arthritis and rheumatism. Today’s guest offerings include a 125,000-gallon swimming pool, two natural soaking pools and a rock grotto. Tailored, pampering getaways can include a selection of wellness and spa therapies.
Crown KIng, Arizona in the Bradshaw Mountains. Photo: Timrobertsaerial | Dreamstime.com
Ravaged by multiple fires over the years and finally demolished, the original resort buildings were replaced with luxurious lodging choices, including 12 Spring Bungalows with private outdoor tubs that fill with hot, natural spring water, covered outdoor decks and outdoor gas fireplaces; 17 mountain-view Sky View Cabins equipped with telescopes for gazing at the twinkling stars; Lodge Rooms featuring antique fixtures and original barefoot claw tubs piped to deliver the natural steamy spring water; and an elegant three-room, 1,200-square-foot 100-year-old Historic Cottage.
The Castle Hot Springs property also offers the restored Stone House chapel as function space for meetings and events; and even boasts its own organic farm and a greenhouse that produces more than 150 varieties of fruits and vegetables, including more than 30 heirloom tomato varieties. This organic bounty is managed by farmer David Bullock and Castle Hot Springs agronomist Ian Beger, and finds its way into the Harvest Restaurant. Guests are even invited to go out and choose ingredients to be included in their meals.
Leading the talented kitchen team is executive chef Christopher Brugman, a recipient of Le Cordon Bleu’s The Grand Diplome. Chef Brugman also made a recent appearance on Food Network’s popular show Chopped.
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedMultigenerational
Apr 22, 2024Travel Sustainably with BWH Hotels
BWH Hotels invites family travelers to experience sustainable practices across its global portfolio. The brand prioritizes sustainable and responsible tourism through its Because We Care program and various partnerships with eco-friendly brands.
Sponsored Content
Unearth Seoul’s Hidden Gems
Filled with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, Seoul invites travelers to unearth its many gems, and Seoul Tourism Organization is here to help travelers do just that. Through thoughtfully created initiatives like the Theme Tourism County Competition, Seoul Tourism Organization works closely with local districts to identify and showcase what makes each district unique and charming in all seasons.
Parents
Apr 22, 20244 Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day fast approaches, and all mothers and mother figures deserve something extra special this year. Treat the mom in your life, whether she’s an outdoor enthusiast or host extraordinaire, to these four great gifts.
Multigenerational
Apr 19, 2024Family-Friendly Offerings from Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection
Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection includes the largest portfolio of luxury all-inclusive resorts in the world — many of them perfect for family travelers. And two current offers might entice your family even more.
Sponsored Content
United Airlines Celebrates its First Class of United Aviate Graduates
As the only major U.S. airline to own a flight school, United Airlines already hit a major milestone, and now the carrier celebrates another important — and historic — step as the inaugural class of United Aviate Academy pilots graduates, leading the next generation of aviators. The 51 students in the graduating class were majority, at 80 percent, women and people of color — another stride toward United’s goal of training 5,000 new pilots by 2030 with half women or POC.
Cruising
Apr 15, 2024Some of Europe’s Best Day Cruises
A week cruising along the Danube or the Rhine may be the stuff of dreams for many, but family travelers can enjoy views from the water in ways kinder to the family budget. Many riverside cities offer scenic cruises, and some Baltic or Mediterranean ports have daytrips to nearby islands or coastal attractions. In several cities you can cruise the canals, and in Switzerland you can spend a day cruising on Lake Geneva, with sightseeing stops in lakeside towns.
ShareThis