Tucked away in the breathtaking desert town of Carefree, Arizona is my family’s new favorite staycation destination – Civana Resort. Jax and I had a fabulous Mom & Mini Getaway there and we loved the property, amenities and offerings so much we can’t wait to return with daddy!
First, I must say when most families think of an Arizona summer staycation it’s all waterparks and lazy rivers. You won’t find that kind of wet and wild fun at Civana, but what they lack in slipping and sliding they make up for with purposeful fun activities for adults and kids…and the views are simply breathtaking. Of course, they do have a pool – and it’s HUGE and deep so the water stays refreshing and cool.
The welcome we received upon check-in and the service we received throughout our stay was excellent. The resort is relatively small, so the staff is really able to cater to guests. Some of the staff even greeted us by name which makes you feel pretty special.
Our room was spacious and positively gorgeous! The aesthetic was clean and modern allowing for the beauty of the surroundings to take center stage because the view outside our door was stunning. The bed was cleverly set in the middle of the room, facing out the windows so we could lounge and soak up the beauty of the desert. Jax and I loved that room.
There were nice little details in the room that made our stay feel extra special – like the stainless steel water bottles and the fabulous bath amenity (scented bath bomb and bath salts) that Jax could not wait to use. And those water bottles are yours to use throughout your stay, there are water filling stations throughout the property so you can stay hydrated while you explore. And best of all you can keep the bottles when you leave, making for an excellent eco-friendly keepsake.
The pool is open pretty late and there is also a jacuzzi with jets so you can wind down and relax after a day of activities. And there are tons of activities and happenings at Civana, many included in the rate. The activities focus on mind, body and spirit and include nature strolls, restorative yoga, stretching classes, cooking classes and so much more.
During our stay we participated in the kid friendly activities starting with Kids Yoga and Stretch. Jax loved doing this class with kids her own age. It was a great way to get our day started.
Next, she moved on to Rock Painting and was very inspired by her beautiful surroundings. Both rock painting and yoga were free.
And then there was the Kids Cook and Create Class, which brought so much joy to Jax she can’t stop talking about it. The class is led by the property’s pastry chef and is hands on, informative and so much fun for kids and adults! Best of all, the kids will make a healthy snack that everyone enjoys. We made vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, egg-free, and dairy-free oatmeal cookies with marshmallow cream filling –believe it or not they were absolutely delicious!!!
The cooking classes is $25/per child and adults are encouraged to cook with their kids. Guests and locals are welcome to participate. Jax and I will for sure do this again, and try I can’t recommend it enough if you have kids.
Jax and I had an incredible time. We loved the laid-back relaxed vibe of the property, and enjoyed the pool and activities. I’ve heard excellent things about the spa and plan to return to check out the services and amenities. The relaxed atmosphere of the property makes for a great Girls Weekend, so if you have a bachelorette party or baby shower coming up or just need girl time, keep Civana in mind. I also see this place as an ideal getaway for a busy mom. On a solo trip it would be easy to lose yourself in the landscape and come away with a clear and focused mind.
But I was most impressed with the family offerings! It’s a great place to be Carefree with kids!
Civana Resort & Spa is located at 37220 Mule Train Road, Carefree, AZ 85377
Disclaimer: We enjoyed a complimentary night stay at Civana and Kids cooking class in exchange for this post. As usual all opinions are entirely my own.
