The Remote Resort Blending Into Utah's Red Rock Country Must Be America's Most Luxurious
The middle of nowhere in Utah is the last place one might expect to find what could be the most luxurious resort in the country. Yet there, in the company of the state's iconic national parks and stunning prehistoric landscape, sits a heavenly oasis so outstanding that a stay here is coveted by the most elite of American society. Amangiri is a domestic desert getaway fit for the stars: It has hosted the biggest of big names, like Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus, Kim Kardashian, Justin Bieber and more. And while you don't need to be an A-list celebrity to book a stay here, you will need to shell out a small fortune for this once-in-a-lifetime getaway.
It is quite fitting that "Amangiri" means "peaceful mountain" in Sanskrit, Hindi, and Arabic, because when you stay here, you will indeed find a peaceful mountainous escape. The five-star resort with three Michelin Keys spans more than 900 acres across the red-hued mesas and dunes that make up Utah's landscape. It's surrounded by five must-visit national parks and a handful of national monuments. It also neighbors the Navajo Nation Reservation, America's largest Native American reservation.
The beauty of its natural surroundings is not Amangiri's sole allure. Its sleek minimalist architecture will pluck you out of the desert and transport you into a "Dune"-esque sci-fi movie, but without all the danger. No giant sand worms here, just endless luxuriating and five-star service in one of the most beautiful hotels around the world. You'll find that it is well worth the more than $3,900 a night price tag.
A luxurious getaway awaits at Amangiri
As you drive toward Amangiri through the canyon country, the resort appears in the distance like a desert mirage. Once you arrive, you are greeted in the vast courtyard by members of the welcome team. They lead you into the reception area, where you can take in the grandeur of the pavilion's wide-open floor plan while you check in, sip on your seasonal welcome beverage, and go over all the experiences that await you during your stay. After a tour of the property, you'll head to one of the 34 suites the resort has to offer. Each suite has unique features that immerse you in Utah's natural beauty. Take in the gorgeous dunes and plateaus from the comfort of your king-size bed. In some rooms, you can enjoy a dip in your private pool, or luxuriate after a hike in your private patio.
You won't want to spend too much time in your suite, however, for there is so much to do on and around the property. Swim in Amangiri's iconic central pool that is casually built around a 165-million-year-old rock formation. Enjoy an entree (or two!) at the resort's restaurant, or opt for a four-course tasting menu that pays tribute to the indigenous tribes of the region. Get a relaxing treatment at the spa. Take a group wellness class at the pilates or yoga studio. Book a romantic sunset experience with your partner, a cheese plate, and a bottle of wine. However you choose to spend your time, you will find that a stay at Amangiri is unlike any other.
An extravagant stay for an extravagant price
Spending that much money on a single night's stay is no easy feat. And if you're planning a visit around peak travel times, you could rack up a bill of over $7,300 a night — even more if you spend on extras. But with this extravagant cost comes an extravagant stay unlike anything you'll ever experience. For example, at Amangiri, everything is on a grand scale. The pool, the suites, the main pavilion, and the surrounding mountains are all larger than life. The enormous suites are equipped with king-size beds, large bathrooms, and wall-to-wall windows. Some have floor-to-ceiling doors that lead to a private patio. The suites also come with a pantry fully equipped with unlimited free snacks and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as cute hats and totes to accessorize with during your stay.
The price goes beyond just the suite. It includes all your meals, as much or as little as you can eat. It also includes group and self-guided hikes along unique trails with amazing views, and if you want to participate in physical activities without leaving the resort, join one of the daily group wellness classes, which are also included with your stay. The only things you'll pay extra for are alcoholic beverages and treatments at the resort's full-service spa.
The incredibly helpful staff includes an experience team who will arrange the extra excursions and experiences that you can't skip on your trip. These include motorboating on Lake Powell, horseback riding, hot air balloon rides, helicopter rides, trips to the national parks, and more. While there are extra fees for these, the resulting experience is one you'll not soon forget.