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Why the Kardashians and Trumps love Amangiri: stunning nature and total exclusivity take centre stage at this luxury desert resort in Utah surrounded by billion-year-old rock formations
Located miles away from civilisation, deep in Utah's remote canyon land, luxury hotel Amangiri has achieved an almost mythical status since it first opened in 2009.
Considered by many to be the crown jewel in
Aman Resorts' ultra-luxurious portfolio, it consistently ranks among the brand's top three properties, and is a magnet for the rich and famous, including Ivanka Trump,
the Kardashians and the
Biebers
Amangiri's exclusivity is such that nabbing a reservation is almost as difficult as buying a
Birkin . And even if you get one, getting to the resort is no easy feat. While many arrive via private plane or helicopter, I choose the more scenic route, which involves a four-hour drive from Las Vegas.
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Amangiri is nestled within Utah's undulating desert landscapes. Photo: Handout
The drive becomes a different journey altogether thanks to my driver, who is a member of the Navajo Nation, an indigenous tribe that lives on a reservation bordering Amangiri. He gives me an eye-opening lesson about their culture, history and deep-rooted connection to the land. By the time we reach the resort, I feel as though I'm entering a sacred place (Amangiri also means 'peaceful mountain' in Sanskrit).
The resort is set on 900 acres of privately owned land, but the main hotel covers only a fraction of this. It blends effortlessly into the stark, otherworldly landscape, dotted with towering sandstone mesas that change colour like chameleons. A temple of pared-back minimalism, its weathered concrete and natural stone walls come alive against the vibrant blue sky.
There are 34 suites in the main building, and the higher categories include private plunge pools and sky decks. Located just a five-minute drive away is a newer property, Camp Sarika, which takes glamping to a whole new level with 10 tented pavilions boasting private plunge pools, multiple bedrooms, and living and dining spaces.
The private terrace and pool at one of the suites at Amangiri. Photo: Handout
I stay in a Desert Suite, which is minimalist in design but comfortable and expansive, and with its own private courtyard entrance, outdoor terrace, firepit and bi-fold glass doors for a luxe take on indoor-outdoor living.
What really takes my breath away, though, are the jaw-dropping views. The vistas are Amangiri's unique selling point and as such, take pride of place everywhere you go, from the main lobby and dining area to the suites. Every corner is Instagrammable, from the hallways to the water pavilion in the spa. My personal favourite is the dreamy central pool which snakes around a billion-year-old rock formation – the starting point and inspiration for the hotel's design.
