Travel & Adventure in Arizona

Early Morning at Sanctuary at Camelback

I just sent off the manuscript for the 2nd edition of my travel guide (Explorer’s Guide: Phoenix, Scottsdale, Sedona & Central Arizona) and all I can think about is that I need a serious day of pampering.  A massage, a steam bath, a facial, a body scrub…well, you get the picture.  After working nonstop to get the book and all of its color photos off to the publisher, I need a heap of relaxation and rejuvenation.

It got me thinking about the fact that right here in Phoenix, there are countless destination and day spas where I could literally spend my entire day relaxing.  So, to get you thinking about it, too, I’ve started a list of places you might want to consider for your next spa day.  P.S. I listed the numbers so you could hurry up and schedule your appointment before you start thinking about all of the things you have to do instead.

Agave, The Arizona Spa, at the Westin Kierland Resort (480-624-1500) is a full-service spa specializing in treatments inspired by the agave—a moisture-rich plant native to the Sonoran Desert. The spa offers several exclusive treatments, some developed by their own therapist, including the Agave Body Glow.

The Asian-inspired Sanctuary Spa (480-607-2330) at Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain features 14 indoor and outdoor treatment rooms. Modern architecture and desert mountain settings, combined with a meditation garden, reflecting pond, and Watsu pool, make this urban retreat a relaxing experience. The spa offers guests a fitness center and movement studio with Pilates, meditation, and yoga classes available.

The Golden Door Spa at The Boulders (480-595-3500) offers a variety of treatments, including several imbued with Native American traditions. Try LaStone (heated stones), Watsu (body manipulation in a warm pool), or Turquoise Wrap, which incorporates the positive energy, protection, and self-confidence Native Americans believe the color turquoise embodies ($170 for 50 minutes).

Set in the Sonoran Desert landscape in North Phoenix, the JW Marriott’s 28,000-square-foot Revive Spa (480-293-5000 or 800-835-6206) incorporates desert elements into a variety of traditional spa treatments—facials, massages, body wraps, and scrubs. Enjoy unique treatments like the 50-minute Prickly Pear Cleansing Buff or the 80-minute foot treatment called the Desert Ridge.