If you’re heading to Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa, make sure you’re well-prepared for a somewhat unconventional resort getaway. This wellness resort is one of the few all-inclusive destination spas in North America and the perfect place to learn about living a healthier lifestyle, pamper yourself with indulgent spa treatments, and just enjoy a few days in nature. Miraval is located near the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains about an hour away from Tucson International Airport.
I stayed at Miraval in December 2011 and came back from this vacation well-rested, completely pampered, and more relaxed than I had been in years. I would go back in a heartbeat and highly recommend staying there even during the winter months when the weather is still mild and comfortable.
Here are some tips for making the most of your trip to Miraval in Tucson, Arizona:
1. Book your spa treatments weeks in advance. If you’re traveling during peak season, you might find it hard to get the spa appointments you want. Remember to make room for all of the wellness activities and experiences throughout the day. Miraval publishes the monthly calendar about a month in advance so you don’t have a lot of time to organize your itinerary and book those appointments. Your safest bet is to book spa appointments as late in the evening as possible. Most activities end around 7 p.m. and dinner service ends shortly after that. I was able to book my spa appointments at 8 p.m. which gave me plenty of time to enjoy the full day without worrying about making my appointment. A good night’s rest was virtually guaranteed after the relaxing service.
2. Fly directly to Tucson International Airport. Transportation from this airport is provided so you won’t have to worry about renting a car or taking a cab to the resort. The driver will be waiting in the baggage claim area at the airport and will hold a sign with your last name on it.
3. Don’t over pack. You’ll be spending most of your days in workout gear, comfortable resort wear, or your spa robe. Miraval is a luxury resort but the dress code is still fairly casual; you don’t even have to dress up for dinner. I spent most of the day wearing my yoga gear and workout outfits because I was taking so many fitness classes all day. I didn’t even have checked baggage for this trip – just one (well-packed) carry-on suitcase and I was good to go.
4. Do the morning walk. Miraval offers a two-mile fitness walk at 8 a.m. most mornings. This is a great way to take in the fresh mountain air, get moving, and kick off the day. You’ll be back at the resort in time for breakfast which ends at 9:30 a.m. and can sign up for other classes and activities after that.
5. Book a departing flight later than 2 p.m. Extend your time at Miraval by signing up for a couple of morning activities on the day of checkout. Miraval provides a complimentary lunch for the road and you can catch the last shuttle bus to the airport. You may be able to get a late checkout to make things easier (you just have to ask when you check in). Plan on getting up early to enjoy a good breakfast, squeeze in a workout, have a snack, then hit the road. You’ll feel great for the rest of the day, especially if you have a long flight ahead.
6. Don’t stress about tipping. Miraval has a no-tipping policy so you don’t need to carry your purse or wallet around. Everything is included in your package and you’ll be billed for any additional services, extra food purchases, or items from the spa boutique at the end of your visit.
