Waldorf Astoria Spa at Boulders. Image courtesy Boulders Resort & Spa.
1. Waldorf Astoria Spa at the Boulders
A true desert oasis, the Waldorf Astoria Spa at the Boulders Resort & Spa is 33,000 square feet of tranquility. With such an expansive property there is much to enjoy and explore, including their signature labyrinth (pictured above) inspired by ancient Hopi medicine wheels, a large outdoor pool and whirlpool, a spa cafe, organic garden, and beauty salon. There are a total of 24 treatment rooms where you can indulge in a large selection of globally-inspired treatments. Take your massage to the next level with their Lotus Blossoming Chakra Massage ($230 for 80 minutes) that will rebalance your energy centres with the help of seven luxurious oils. For a body treatment that leaves you feeling soft and smooth, the Desert Rose Radiance ($210 for 80 minutes) first exfoliates, then cocoons you in an aloe mask, perfect for sun-damaged skin, while you enjoy a mini facial, ending with a hydrating massage.
There are even more advanced skincare treatments, such as oxygenating facials and microdermabrasion, and mind-body treatments such as acupuncture, astrological soul reading and private meditation. Those who want to work on their health goals can do so too, with nutritional counselling, fitness assessments and personal training.
With the variety of treatments and facilities, it’s worth it to make a day of it here. Plan to have lunch in the spa cafe, where you can stroll in with your robe and dine on healthy spa cuisine overlooking the 1.5-million year-old boulders.
Good to know: It’s a busy spa, so if you prefer less foot traffic then you may want to consider a smaller property.
Where to Find:
Boulders Resort & Spa
34631 N Tom Darlington Drive
Scottsdale, AZ
1-480-595-3500; theboulders.com
Image courtesy Four Seasons.
2. Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North
One of the appeals of this property is its location in the Sonoran Desert away from the hustle and bustle of downtown. Within the expansive property is a luxurious respite for travellers in search of pampering. Smaller than some of the other resort spas in the area, you’ll still find 14 treatment rooms, including one for couple’s, not to mention a solid treatment menu, including a handful of signature treatments inspired by the region. Four Seasons in One ($230 for 80 minutes) is ideal for indecisive spa-goers, as the treatment combines a variety of massage techniques, a light exfoliation and a soothing wrap. You can’t go wrong with their custom facial ($165 for 50 minutes), which is completely personalized to your skin type and concerns.
Weary travellers who have trouble hitting the hay should consider one of their Sleepytime Services. Booked anytime after 3 p.m. their Dream Weaver Massage ($230 for 80 minutes) and Nighttime Repair Facial ($195 for 50 minutes), both are designed to promote rest, relaxation and results.
The final touch? A chocolate covered strawberry that makes for a perfect ending.
Good to know: There is no pool attached to the spa and it will be a bit of a hike in your robe, so ideally plan for pool-time before (or after) you hit the spa.
Where to Find:
Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North
10600 E Crescent Moon Drive
Scottsdale, AZ
1-480-515-5700; fourseasons.com/scottsdale
Image courtesy Fairmont.
3. Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
The Willow Stream Spa is a destination onto itself and with extensive facilities available for spa guests, it’s well worth a visit. Ideal for spa-going couples, there are 27 treatment rooms in their three-level facility, including an open air roof-top adult pool complete with private cabanas.
For treatment options there’s a huge selection from massage therapy to bodywork and facial skincare. Try their Well & Being Renewal signature body treatment service ($249 for 90 minutes), for a total head-to-toe refresh.
Your experience here goes well beyond the treatment room, so be sure to arrive at least an hour early and plan to linger. It’s worth it to schedule time in for a fitness class too. You’ll find everything from Pilates to Zumba, and even aerial yoga for the more adventurous.
Good to know: During peak times, food delivery can be a little slow, so plan accordingly.
Where to Find:
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
7575 E Princess Drive
Scottsdale, AZ
1–480-585-4848; fairmont.com/scottsdale
Image courtesy Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain.
4. The Sanctuary Spa at Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain
Nestled at the base of Camelback Mountain, the spa here is less of a destination spa then some of the other resort spas in the area. But what it lacks in flash makes up for with its intimate Zen-like setting. There are a total of 12 indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, as well as a meditation garden, reflecting pool, and a unique outdoor Watsu pool where aquatic massages are performed.
Expect to find a wide range of Asian-inspired services, including exclusive treatments like Tok Sen ($250 for 90 minutes), a healing treatment hailing from Thailand that uses yoga-like stretching and vibrations to help relax and soothe. Those who want to delve into more divine healing might be interested in their astrology, tarot, numerology and hypnotherapy treatments. Don’t sweat it, there is plenty to satisfy the traditionalists too — from custom facials to deep tissue massages.
Good to know: The locker room leans on the more basic side when it comes to appearance.
Where to Find:
Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain
5700 E McDonald Drive
Paradise Valley, AZ
1-480-948-2100; sanctuaryoncamelback.com
The relaxation area at Joya Spa. Image courtesy Omni Resorts.
5. Joya Spa at Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia
It’s not always just about the pampering, sometimes it’s nice to be visually enthralled as well. The Joya Spa upped the ante with enlisting award-winning Sylvia Sepielli to design the Hamman-inspired 31,000 square foot space. The Moroccan touches extends beyond the decor, with exclusive treatments including the authentic Hamman which can be added to any experience ($79 for 30 minutes).
There’s an impressive treatment menu with all of your standards, plus specialized body treatments, facial add-ons and wellness sessions, like meditation, hypnotherapy and lip print reading. With a modern fitness facility complete with classes and personalized training, it’s easy to make a day out of it here.
You’ll also be privy to gorgeous views of Camelback mountain, best seen relaxing at the rooftop pool. Whether you just want to sip on a cup of tea or re-energize with a smoothie and a salad, you can do that under the Arizona sun.
Good to know: For those only spa-ing, not staying on property, you’ll be limited to the use of just the rooftop pool.
Where to Find:
Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia
4949 East Lincoln Drive
Scottsdale, AZ
1-480-627-3200; omnihotels.com
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