By Hallie Milstein By Hallie Milstein | December 21, 2021 | Lifestyle, Travel & Recreation, Relax and Renew, Hotel Spas, Hotel Suites, Golf Courses,
At these three luxurious resorts offering tranquil autumn escapes, tension is a thing of the past.
At the foot of Mummy Mountain in Paradise Valley, the shining star of the JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa is its history. Steeped in distinct charm unique to the deep cultural heritage of the Sonoran Desert, this Marriott darling has emblazoned itself with the motto “Where Time Stands Still.” This nostalgia for yesteryear inspires relaxation and mindfulness for a rejuvenating effect. Contemporary luxuries add to the time capsule effect, including a lush spa, jaw-dropping desert landscapes, a lavish pool, two 18-hole golf courses and stunning design that combines local influence with modern elegance.
True to its devotion to history, the JW Marriott is celebrating its birthday with a bang. The luxurious resort was opened in December 1936, marking nearly 85 years of top-notch hospitality. To celebrate this anniversary, Marriott is offering exclusive access and accommodations at a reduced price. Those who take advantage of this opportunity will stay in the exclusive Jackrabbit Suite with a private pool, as well as nine additional rooms. For $85,000, the celebration will also include a welcome reception and private yoga, tours and hikes for up to 25 guests, 20 spa treatments, delectable meals, and several other desirable events and excursions. 5402 E. Lincoln Drive, Scottsdale, marriott.com
A dirt road will lead you to your destination: Castle Hot Springs, a gorgeous resort in a lush desert oasis inspired by the nature of the Wild West. Spend your days soaking in the natural hot springs, unique to this property in all of Arizona, where there are three distinct pools with different temperatures. Let the mineral-rich water refresh your mind, body and soul. Horseback riding, farm tours, hiking and daily meditation classes are also available, catered toward nature and relaxation. Then, indulge in complimentary farm-to-table dining using the 300-plus ingredients grown by Castle Hot Springs before retreating to your cozy bungalow, cottage or cabin.
The experience at this oasis retreat is enhanced by the location’s historical significance. Castle Hot Springs was America’s first wellness resort and recently starred in a documentary, Castle Hot Springs: Oasis of Time. Bolstered by the stunning thermal springs, this resort has hosted Vanderbilts, Wrigleys, Roosevelts, Cabots and Astors. This legacy has been sustained carefully and with integrity to the natural landscape, so much so that it was awarded Best Arizona Cultural and Historic Preservation at the Arizona Governor’s Conference on Tourism. And, not only will guests feel like the main character in a movie, complete with a cinematic backdrop and a warm sense of nostalgia, but they’ll actually be living in one. 5050 N. Castle Hot Springs Road, Morristown, castlehotsprings.com
The Wigwam Arizona is known for its casual elegance and charming ambiance that have persisted for a century, marking the resort as a staple of West Valley history and communities. The perfect day at The Wigwam includes a trip to its two fundamental havens: the golf club and the spa. Featuring 54 holes, the resort’s extended champion golf club, which includes two courses designed by iconic golf architect Robert Trent Jones Sr., is not to be missed. A sun-soaked day on the green is complemented by an excursion to LeMonds Aveda Salon Spa, where relaxation is supported by a menu of luxurious options including balancing, skincare and body treatments using natural ingredients fortified by science and aimed at healing.
With mind and body attended to, don’t miss The Wigwam’s other stunning additions including several fine dining locations, bocce and tennis courts, and three grand pools to conclude your stay. For the ultimate restorative experience, reserve the The Wigwam’s Relax, Restore, & Renew Wellness Package this fall, which includes two 50-minute massages or facials, in-room wellness amenities such as Aveda creams and chakra oil, and two freshly pressed juices. 300 E. Wigwam Blvd., Litchfield Park, wigwamarizona. com
From top: JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa pool; the ninth hole at its Padre Course.
Clockwise from left: Castle Hot Springs; the relaxation room in LeMonds Aveda Salon Spa at The Wigwam Arizona (entrance below).
Photography by: courtesy of hotels