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Top 5 destinations for your socially distant vacation: Southwest luxury resorts

Towering canyon walls. Dry desert landscapes. Hot days and cool nights. Otherworldly red rock formations. Unbelievable star gazing. That’s the norm in the Southwest. But, what about staying at a Southwest luxury resort during COVID?

It’s a time of year when people are normally traveling all over the place. You might be wondering what to do with the rest of your summer. And what about the fall? Or the rest of 2020? 2021?

Where can you vacation in the Southwest during COVID?

As COVID numbers continue to trend in the wrong direction for the United States, we continue to be more limited in where we can travel. This is a dynamic situation, and things are changing daily. But overall, here’s the trend if you are thinking about a vacation during COVID. As a US citizen, if you are going to travel near term, domestic is your safest bet.

For more detail on this, read my article covering the Top 50 destinations in the US for your post-quarantine vacation (linked here).

If you are thinking about taking a vacation during COVID, I need to tell you something. There are so many amazing properties spread across the US that were designed for social distancing. And that was wayyy before it was the travel industry’s hottest trend! If you don’t believe me, read on.

This article will dive into the region occupying the bottom left corner of the United States. I will share 5 of my favorite Southwest luxury resorts to consider for your Southwest vacation during COVID.

 

Top 5 Southwest luxury resorts for your post-quarantine vacation

Whether you live in the Southwest, driving distance from the Southwest, or you’re willing to fly to the Southwest, there’s a breathtaking option for you. 

And yes, I understand that there are some areas in the Southwest that are seeing spikes in COVID cases. The properties on this list are all in remote locations, have tons of outdoor space, and offer secluded accommodation options. For example, casitas, cabins, villas, bungalows, private homes, or full buyout.

We’ve chosen options at different price points and rounded things out geographically within the Southwest. Everyone has different needs and priorities, so they are not listed in ranking order. 

It is also not an end all, be all list. There are too many great properties to include them all. If you do not find something that matches your needs, please reach out and ask (email me directly: jordan@thejourneybound.com). I am happy to have the conversation and guide you in the right direction!

 

You might be looking for a near term driving distance getaway. Or maybe you’re planning ahead for a time when you will be ready to travel. Either way, continue reading and use this hand-picked list of Southwest luxury resorts as a starting point. 

 

VIP perks and amenities for you

I am partnered with many of these properties (e.g. Virtuoso), which means free stuff and VIP treatment for you! At a minimum, this means:

  • Free breakfast daily
  • Food, beverage, or spa credits to use during your stay
  • Potential room upgrades

Plus, I will always contact the properties directly on behalf of my clients. This ensures they are ready to welcome you personally, and gives you the best chance of receiving extra amenities and room upgrades 🙂

 

Miraval Arizona | Tucson, AZ – Miraval is situated in the warm shade of the Santa Catalina Mountains on 400 secluded acres of idyllic land. It is an inclusive destination wellness resort dedicated to helping you live life in the moment.

Come to Miraval to step out of your comfort zone for mindful escape, action, connection, and enlightenment. The property provides inspiring wellbeing, hiking, biking, equine, and culinary experiences – curated by their specialists and tailored just for you. Choose from casita rooms and suites, modularly designed retreats, and luxurious private villas.

  • Open: Now
  • $800++ per night (all-inclusive)

Amangiri | Canyon Point, UT – A 600-acre sanctuary of wilderness and isolation in Southern Utah’s Canyon Point, Amangiri blends into its untouched surroundings of red rock country. This ‘mountain of peace’ is cradled by the greatest concentration of national parks in the United States.

The property’s backyard consists of a staggering landscape of canyons, mesas, mountains, gorges, rapids, and desert, with traces of human life dating back more than 10,000 years. It is truly one of the world’s most dramatically secluded settings. Enjoy sustainable, seasonal menus inspired by the culinary heritage of the Navajo and the American Southwest served indoors and alfresco. Choose between the modernist suites of Amangiri and the tented pavilions of nearby Camp Sarika.

  • Open: Now
  • $3500++ per night

Under Canvas Moab | Moab, UT – Located upon 40-acres of otherworldly slickrock landscape, Under Canvas Moab lies just 7 miles north of Moab. You’ll have direct access to two of Utah’s most famed National Parks: Arches and Canyonlands. Tucked between two world-class climbing, mountain biking, and hiking destinations, Under Canvas’ desert glamping accommodations are a gateway to the towering plateaus, sandstone cliffs, and naturally occurring geologic wonders of Utah’s Canyon Country.

Immerse yourself in the great outdoors without forgoing the comforts of home. You’ll enjoy nightly s’mores by the campfire, complimentary camp activities, and adventure bookings made right at camp. These conveniences serve to provide an unparalleled experience with a sense of profound connection to people and nature. Choose from a variety of safari-style canvas tents, boasting optional en suite bathrooms and stargazing windows, king size beds, distinguished furnishings, daily housekeeping, and wood-burning stoves.

  • Open: Now
  • $200++ per night

Vermejo | Raton, NM – Vermejo truly is the jewel of northern New Mexico. At your fingertips, you have snowcapped alpine tundra, 19 fishable lakes, and over 550,000 stunning acres of picturesque lands. It’s a remote hideaway that is home to a wide variety of wildlife including elk, bison, black bears, and mountain lions. 

Whether you’re into riding horseback through open fields, exploring turn-of-the-century charcoal kilns, or fly fishing for Rio Grande cutthroat trout, Vermejo has something to meet everyone’s desires. Choose from a wide range of accommodation options, including intimate historic cottages, an eco-friendly mountain lodge, or a turn-of-the-century mansion.

  • Open: Now
  • $1300++ per night

Four Seasons Scottsdale | Scottsdale, AZ – At Four Seasons Scottsdale at Troon North, you’ll experience timeless beauty in their adobe casitas. Imagine a backyard full of saguaro cacti, dramatic valleys, and the iconic Pinnacle Peak. You’ll have the opportunity to discover Scottsdale’s vibrant Native American art, history, and Old West lore.

The surrounding hills are ripe with outdoor adventure, including everything from hiking and mountain biking to horseback riding and canyoneering. Guests will have privileged access to two world-class golf courses just a quick shuttle ride away. Locally inspired spa treatments, a bi-level pool, and authentic Southwest cuisine round out your relaxing desert escape. Choose from a variety of adobe casita rooms and larger suite style accommodations.

  • Open: Now
  • $300++ per night

Again, this is not an end all be all list of Southwest luxury resorts. But, whether you’re looking for a Southwest vacation during COVID or if you’re planning ahead for a time when you will be ready to travel, this hand-picked list is a great place to start. 


Most luxury travelers don’t have the time, knowledge, or expertise to plan truly awesome vacations. I offer a personalized travel planning and concierge service to help you save time, access the best travel experiences, and travel hassle free.

I am partnered with many of these luxury properties (e.g. Virtuoso), which means VIP perks and amenities for you! To contact me directly, email jordan@thejourneybound.com. To start planning your trip today, click SCHEDULE A CALL below.

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