Civana Wellness Resort & Spa

We loved staying here. The staff is incredibly gracious. The pool is beautiful and the scenery spectacular. The restaurant was delicious. 2 small but lovely features: the property smells great. Not sure how they do this but I dig it. Also- I loved the pour over coffee in the rooms. So much better than nasty pod coffee. We will be back. Edward Katz, Atlanta GA

Civana is a pretty spot but some of their spaces overlook the road and parking lot. Their Vichy shower was simply a body scrub and a regular shower, very misleading. Having visited multiple wellness retreats this one is my least favorite. There are so many add ons during the day like food and even some classes. And it notes that there is a cap of 2 classes per day even tho it did let me book more. 2 per day is not enough on a retreat. The spa, particularly co ed jacuzzi/sauna area, is loud and crowded. Nothing relaxing about it. Everyone is on their phone which is frowned upon at other wellness centers. Rancho La Puerta is still winning for me. It’s so immersive and including, everyone has their own casita and unlimited classes.

This my second visit to Civana. The owners of this resort are putting their resources into EXACTLY the right things; quality instructors and spa staff, creative classes and spa treatments, and fabulous food!!! Are the rooms simple? Yes. But they are clean and the beds are comfortable. AND we spent zero time in the room bc we were so busy either at a class, the spa or taking in the amazing Arizona sun by the pool. April is definitely a nice month to visit. Warm but not hot and beautiful grounds with unusual flora and fauna blooming. I’ve been to high end resorts such as Canyon Ranch and Six Senses. In my mind this resort has FAR better instructors, classes, spa treatments and food!!! I will be back for a third trip at some point even tho I live on the east coast. Any chance owners will open a site on the east coast?!!

If I could give you one tip, it would be do not go. This is nothing more than motel that they attempted to put lipstick on. When I read negative reviews, I often question if the reviewer is being dramatic or had some really negative experience with a particular person. Trust me when I tell you, I’m giving you an accurate review. The facility itself is drab, depressing and an old motel with an even worse conference room feel. The yoga rooms are just as bad and depressing. The yoga studios at my gym are far nicer. The rooms are even worse. They are small, drab, and just plain sad. The service is so par and the food is below average. They literally nickel and dime you for everything. There also doesn’t seem to be a lot of food available during the day and not a lot of food options for the cost and as compared to other similar resorts. Classes are also often full. In terms of the spa, you also cannot get in without an appointment. But they’re often booked and only provide day passes to day guests. The spa is also just an average space that is slightly more elevated than the rest of the facility. The location is fine - pretty but not amazing. Overall, if it wasn’t for the fabulous group of ladies that I went with, I would’ve left early. The cost isn’t at all in line with what you get.Save your money and go to one of the many other similar resorts in the country.

Overall experience was exactly what I was hoping for and even a little better than anticipated. Spa and grounds were peaceful and amazing. Staff were kind and helpful. Was pleasantly surprised by the quality and value of the classes, which were more varied and helpful than anticipated.