Castle Hot Springs Resort: A Model for Sustainable Hospitality in Arid Regions
Green Globe Certification has awarded Castle Hot Springs Resort its inaugural certification. Surrounded by the grandeur of Arizona’s Sonoran Desert in the United States, Castle Hot Springs is an all-inclusive resort with a history dating back over a century to the 1890s. The resort is home to natural hot springs that cascade into three pools. Guests can indulge in resort activities and exciting adventures or simply relax and enjoy the serene surroundings. All meals are included, with much sourced from an onsite farm.
General Manager, Kevin Maguire said, "Castle Hot Springs is honored to be awarded our first Green Globe certification. Our entire team shares the focus of creating an environment where sustainability and stewardship of the Earth’s resources is of paramount importance. Our owner-run hotel is passionately committed to the historic nature of this desert hot springs resort. Our goal is to share its rich history and preserve the incredible natural beauty while providing an elevated guest experience.”
Castle Hot Springs Sustainability Initiatives:
Water Conservation
Located in the remote Arizona desert, Castle Hot Springs faces unique conditions for sustainable resource management and has the rare opportunity to closely study how its operations interact with local water cycles and desert ecosystems. This includes understanding how the springs’ distinctive mineral composition supports and influences the surrounding natural environment. At Castle Hot Springs, it is important for the team to maintain regenerative soil health on the farm in addition to nurturing resilient desert landscaping. Through careful management of all this precious natural resource, Castle Hot Springs sets a model for sustainable hospitality in an arid region.
On-site Farm
The resort hosts a farm-to-table dining experience that extends to the craft cocktail created with produce grown regeneratively right on the property. Eco-friendly practices such as soil preservation, biodiversity and developing unique flavors are prioritized. Over 300 varieties of vibrant fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs are cultivated and harvested including cucumbers, carrots, hybrid tomatoes, greens and more. Daily farm tours, one of the most popular activities at the resort, also provide a valuable opportunity for team members to speak with guests about sustainable agricultural systems and regenerative soil stewardship. Sharing knowledge fosters a genuine appreciation for the desert environment.
Composting Initiatives
Castle Hot Springs Resort’s on-site composting system is a key part of its carbon reduction efforts, transforming organic waste into valuable compost, diverting it from landfill. This process not only eliminates the need for transported fertilizers but also prevents significant landfill-based greenhouse gas emissions. Thanks to strong interdepartmental collaboration and efforts, the Resort successfully composts materials including biopolymers, fiber packaging, and challenging food scraps like meat, dairy, and oils. The result is a self-sustaining circular system where nutrient-rich compost supports the growth of high-quality food. The mindset is this: rather than waste management, the resort practices resource management.
Castle Hot springs remains committed to preserving Arizona’s natural beauty for generations to come while offering guests an unparalleled retreat.
Contact
Andrea Noziglia
Sustainability Coordinator
Castle Hot Springs Resort
5050 N Castle Hot Springs Rd
Morristown, Arizona, 85342
USA
E: anoziglia@castlehotsprings.com
T: (928) 501-1001