Canyon Ranch in Tucson, Arizona, welcomed me after I departed from Golden Door Resort. Since my reserves were not filled to the brim and overflowing my cup, I still needed pampering and rest. Canyon Ranch was a resort I had known about for at least a decade, so why did it take me so long to visit? I was nervous that it would feel like a factory experience, and it turned out to be the opposite and so much more!

Let me preface this post by saying that I received a discounted rate, and that did, in fact, entice me to visit. And, this is a NO-TIPPING resort! That cinched it for me!

Thankfully, there is a direct flight from DEN to TUS. A Canyon Ranch representative was waiting for me in Baggage Claim, as airport transfers are included. He took my temperature and asked me some COVID-19 related questions to ensure I was healthy enough to stay on the property. The drive from the airport to the resort was approximately forty minutes. The representative notified me that I would need to visit the reception desk daily for a temperature check. That would be the only way I can receive or participate in services and activities that day.

guest Rooms

Throughout the main property, all rooms have gone through extensive renovation and refurbishment. I stayed in three different rooms; two Executive guest rooms, and one Luxury Suite, and I liked one more than the others, although they were all well-appointed.

For your information, all guest rooms include the following amenities:

• Cloud-soft feather beds & Mascioni® luxury Italian linens
• Pillow Menu with 20+ options
• Terry cloth robes
• DVD, cable TV, stereo
• Sound machine & iPhone® docking stations
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• In-room coffee, tea service & filtered water
• In-room safe
• Canyon Ranch bath & body products

What stood out to me the most was the filtered water. What an incredible luxury to have the convenience of filling your water bottle from the tap every day and night! And yes, the water tasted pure and fresh! But, it was the Sound Machine that I purchased when I got home because the soothing white noise of ocean waves really helps calm my mind when I’m over-thinking things and need to sleep.

Enjoy this tour of the different Guest Rooms.

The Reserve is an exclusive enclave of 20 luxury accommodations near the entrance of the resort. “The Residence” is a 1200 square-foot hospitality suite complete with a kitchen, adjoining rooms, and sweeping open views of the mountains. One of the highlights is a central gathering area with a fire pit and beautiful water features throughout. The Reserve is great for retreat groups, families traveling together, and solo travelers desiring tranquility and to be slightly distanced from the main resort area.

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The next room I stayed in was an Executive Room near the Reception and boutiques! (Perfect for shopping!) I also saw and heard lots of Javelina traveling around this room! What a treat!

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On the second night of my stay, I’d like to note that I requested a humidifier for my room, and it was delivered with a full tank of water, and when I moved rooms, I took it with me! The last room I stayed in was also an Executive Suite with a sitting area as above, but much larger, and had a stellar view of the mountains! It was away from the main resort area, and I was able to sit at a nearby table with an umbrella and chairs for most meals with this stunning view, and a hummingbird would often visit the tree that was beside the table!

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Food

So tasty and fresh! Aside from the incredible views and numerous activities, I think my favorite part of my stay was the food! Before arriving, I gave my food sensitivities, and at every meal, if I ordered something that contained an allergen, I was notified. My dining options were either in my room (delivered with speedy service) or at specified times for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in one dining room, or outside seating. There was also a snack bar/cafe open from 7a-2p daily for light snacks and smoothies. I found that the menus offered sufficient variety, even though it was the same menu every day. Also, if you fall in love with anything, they most likely have a recipe you can take home with you, as I did for the Gluten-Free Oat bars! I also particularly loved the gluten-free pesto pizza but have not replicated the same amazing taste at home. So sad! I guess I’ll need to return!

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Activities

Canyon Ranch is an all-inclusive resort, with Pathway Experiences for the traveler(s) seeking a complete rejuvenating package for life-enriching results. There are 3-, 5-, and 7-night Pathway experiences that come with at least 5, 8, or 10 services respectively. You get to choose what it is you are seeking and let me tell you, there are so many options! The best value is with a 7-night stay, and if you want to stay longer, that can be arranged!

The different Pathways are:

• Lifestyle Reset
• Personal Discovery
• Optimal Health Exploration
• Live Your Healthy Weight
• Transition Purposefully
• Reconnect with Joy
• Outdoor Escape

If any of these sound appealing to you, please connect with me, and I’ll be happy to book your reservation! You can find out much more on the Canyon Ranch website, and you are not limited to Tucson for your stay. Canyon Ranch offers the Pathway Experiences in Lenox, Massachusetts, and Woodside, CA, although some slight changes may be between the properties.

I loved the Tucson property. For an outdoor hike, the 2-mile loop takes you through the surrounding hills and neighborhoods around the Ranch. It’s a great workout, and the sights are fantastic along the way!

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Retreat leaders

Canyon Ranch is a fabulous place to hold your upscale luxury retreat! The Reserve is a great area to keep your group private and contained, and all the resort activities are a short stroll away. On the property itself, for Spiritual seekers, there are many contemplative spaces, and most are outdoors in nature, where you want to be! Also, there is a healthy-mind-body and soul approach to almost everything offered, so your guests will feel nourished and supported throughout their stay.

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The Deluxe Rooms feature a king or two queen beds, desk, and patio, which may be perfect for your group. Alternatively, if you have a small group, you might opt for Casa Grande, a complete, freestanding home with luxurious accommodations for up to six people. The 2,700-square-foot home features a gracious living room, full kitchen, dining area, washer/dryer, and private patio. Special amenities include a computer, printer, and fax.

Contact me for special group pricing and to help you plan your next retreat!

Summary

My stay was better than I could have imagined. The grounds were landscaped beautifully, the staff was beyond helpful and gracious, the food was stellar and so tasty, the rooms were modern and comfortable, and there was plenty to do, see, and experience. If you want to shop, there are two options with a plethora of clothes, accessories, and fun stuff your wallet will surely love!

If you’re ready and rearing to get away for some R&R, look no further than Canyon Ranch. The Spa is open, and everyone is required to wear masks throughout the property. Some exercise classes have been moved outdoors for safety protocols, and you will be seated 6-feet away from another dining guest.

It was exactly what I needed to feel “whole” again, and I will happily return in the future.

‘Til next time, thanks for reading, and Happy Travels!