Class: Deluxe
Style: Cutting edge
Rooms: 34
desert
Since opening Amanpuri on a deserted stretch of beach in Phuket in 1988, Amanresorts founder Adrian Zecha has maintained a canny ability to secure spectacular locations for his resorts. One of his latest offerings, Amangiri, is no exception. Blending discreetly into a secluded valley in Utah's Canyon Point, the 34-suite retreat, finished in white stone, Douglas-fir, walnut and concrete, commands views of the massive Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Here, as terrace fires are lit against the evening desert chill and delicate seasonal dishes emerge from the restaurant's wood-fired oven, seclusion is a boon. But distractions are available: the Grand Canyon, Lake Powell and Zion National Park are all within striking distance, and offer activities ranging from kayaking and helicopter flights to excursions with archeologists, geologists and naturalists. The more sedentary can retreat to the immaculate spa, where a range of therapies in the water pavilion or the Watsu pool conspires to soothe away the day's dust adventures.