Planning a destination wedding is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming at times. Between vendor calls, travel logistics, and family expectations, couples often find themselves so focused on the details that they forget to slow down and simply be present. That’s why more brides, grooms, and their wedding parties are turning to pre-wedding wellness getaways, wellness bachelorettes, and even solo-rettes to recharge, reconnect, and prepare for this important life transition.

One of the most inspiring places to do just that is CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa in Carefree, Arizona. Known for its holistic programs and inclusive philosophy, CIVANA is more than a desert escape; it’s a sanctuary for couples and their loved ones to find balance and rejuvenation before the big day.

A Desert Retreat That Centers Around Connection

The resort is set amidst a tranquil desert landscape just north of Scottsdale, combining breathtaking natural backdrops with intentional wellness programs. CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa was designed as a place of renewal, offering couples and wedding parties the chance to step away from the noise of planning and step into mindful connection. Whether it’s a weekend reset, a wellness-focused bachelorette in place of a late-night party scene, or a solo getaway for the bride or groom to ground themselves before the wedding, CIVANA makes space for reflection and joy in equal measure.

Wellness Programs That Nurture Couples and Groups

CIVANA’s offerings are based on four pillars: movement, spa, nourishment and discovery. Movement doesn’t just mean intense HITT classes or weight lifting, but mindful movement. “We don’t believe you have to be this specific idea of ‘fit,’” says Mariah Hurst, Media and VIP Relations for the resort. “Our resort prioritizes inclusivity and we offer a program that can work with any person, regardless of their age or fitness level.” And with a mix of paid and complimentary classes, there’s a long list to choose from. 

Everything from aerial yoga and guided hikes to high ropes courses and mountain biking can be experienced for a fee. There’s also an even longer line-up of included courses, such as cycle, Kriya flow yoga, a myriad of stretch classes and pickleball, to name a few. You can opt in to as many or as few of those complimentary classes as you wish.

A Destination Spa That Understands The Assignment

Next up in their lineup of pillars is “spa,” which might be my favorite part of CIVANA. This brand-new facility is “inspired by water,” and the concept hits you from the moment you enter. With water fountains flanking the entrance and an entire hydrotherapy thermal circuit (as part of your experience), the idea harkens back to ancient days where “taking the waters” offers physical and energetic benefits using the “tradition of healing, cleansing and rejuvenation.”

One stand-out treatment we received is called “Revive to Thrive.” This detoxifying treatment combines Ayurvedic techniques to stimulate the lymphatic system. They start by doing a gentle dry-glove exfoliation, followed by applying herbed oils from the scalp to the heels. The treatment ends with Marma Point Therapy that is meant to tune into your body’s energy, leaving you feeling grounded, calm and hydrated.

Using Food as Fuel

The third pillar is “nourishment,” and CIVANA believes that “true health is grounded in nature.” With their restaurants and culinary offerings providing many flavorful vegetarian options, there are also delicious ways to indulge. For those who still want a cocktail or dessert after dinner, they’ve got you. The difference is that the ingredients are top-shelf and seasonal. While dining at their main restaurant, Terras, we had mixed drinks along with our beet hummus and ahi tartare starters, and finished with a delectable carrot cake and apple tart. The result was a mix of wholesome foods with a few splurges…the perfect balance.

Checking Out While You Check In

“Discovery” is the fourth pillar that the resort holds dear to its philosophy…and might be the most important. The idea is “to provide paths of change, growth, and discovery, be it an appreciation for the natural beauty around us, new experiences or relationships, or a deeper understanding of the self,” as it states on their website. And after experiencing the resort for myself, I can attest that we walked away a little different. 

From enjoying the immersive experience of the resort and being out of the hustle and bustle of normal life, and partaking in classes like “Sound Healing for Joy” or doing deep breath work and guided meditation, you can’t help but be a little transformed during your stay. A weekend at CIVANA forces you to take a beat and a little time off the grid to recenter yourself.

A Culture of Inclusivity

What makes CIVANA truly unique is its commitment to inclusivity. Every class and program is designed to welcome people of all ages, body types, fitness levels, and backgrounds. For couples and groups, this ensures no one feels left out, whether your best friend is a seasoned yogi or has never stepped on a mat. The resort’s focus on accessibility makes it easy for everyone to enjoy the experience equally, reinforcing the values of connection and unity that are so central to weddings.

A Pre-Wedding Retreat for Couples

For couples looking to strengthen their foundation before the big day, CIVANA also offers resources like pre-wedding counseling, couples’ coaching, and private wellness sessions. Combined with yoga, meditation, and desert-inspired spa treatments, these tools help partners align mentally, emotionally, and spiritually before walking down the aisle. Think of it as a mindful alternative to the whirlwind of last-minute planning: a chance to reconnect, release stress, and set powerful intentions for your marriage.

The Takeaway

Whether you’re planning a wellness bachelorette, craving a solo-rette before the big day, or seeking a grounding pre-wedding retreat as a couple, CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa provides the ideal balance of connection, inclusivity, and self-care. With its transformative programs and serene desert setting, it’s not just another luxury resort; it’s a destination that helps engaged couples and their loved ones celebrate life’s milestones in ways that feel intentional, restorative, and lasting.