Resort & Spa Escapes in Phoenix

The Ultimate Getaway Is Right Here In the Valley

by Tammy LeRoy

For many of us, tightening up the budget means that we simply have to cut back on some of the luxuries we've allowed ourselves in years past--and our cherished vacations are often the first indulgence to go under the knife. The "staycation" trend is one example of how families across the U.S. are trimming their travel budgets. But for those of us fortunate enough to live in the beautiful Valley of the Sun-one of the most desirable vacation destinations on the globe--vacationing close to home is hardly a sacrifice.

You can enjoy the ultimate escape right here and forgo the hefty travel costs. And to sweeten the deal, some of the Valley's most lavish resorts are offering unprecedented savings. These bargains can land you in the lap of luxury at prices that compare to those of "adequate" accommodations in vacation Meccas elsewhere. It's no secret that central Arizona is home to some of the world's most spectacular resorts and spas, attracting VIPs from kings to movie stars to our sunny Valley. And now is the perfect time to take advantage of our privileged locale.

Phoenix Woman takes you to three landmark resorts where you can indulge in the ultimate vacation right here in the Valley. And don't worry that packing your bags to drive only a few miles from home won't seem like a "real" vacation; once you're past that grand gated entrance, you'll be transported into another world where a caring staff is ready to cater to your every whim.

THE ARIZONA BILTMORE

In 1929, when the Arizona Biltmore hosted a grand opening gala that was to be the party of the decade, its spectacular Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired design and opulent decor were the pride of the Valley. If staying at a resort where Marilyn Monroe once lounged by the pool, Clark Gable and Carole Lombard honeymooned, and every U.S. president from Herbert Hoover through George W. Bush has stayed inspires your daydreams, the Arizona Biltmore is the place to vacation.

Eighty years after it wowed the world with its gold-leaf ceilings and dazzling decor, Phoenix's Grande Dame still has it going on.

ACCOMMODATIONS
Accommodations at the Arizona Biltmore range from spacious guest rooms to suites as large as 1,600 square feet with private terraces and balconies, marble baths and gas fireplaces.

Ocatilla is a new, boutique addition to the resort that offers enhanced guest services and contemporary accommodations. Guests are granted access to the Ocatilla Executive Lounge, a private pool with poolside service and an array of other amenities including complimentary beer, wine, beverages, fruit and snacks throughout the day, and light evening fare followed by cordials and sweets.

The spacious, 500-square-feet guest rooms at Ocatilla boast a contemporary, Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired decor and a media wall with flat-screen HDTV, iPod dock, high-speed internet access and work area. Well-appointed bathrooms feature double sinks with granite countertops, mosaic tile in a spacious glass shower and a separate soaking tub.

DINING
The Biltmore's skilled culinary team is headed by award-winning Executive Chef Todd Sicolo, who says the resort's menus now reflect fresher ingredients that are organic and hormone-free. Nevertheless, Sicolo says he appreciates and respects the history of the resort's restaurants. "A smart chef won't try to change history," he says, "but will try to adapt to it with innovative ideas and contemporary presentations."

One such dining venue with an illustrious history is Wright's--a Valley landmark with its opulent decor and superlative menu. Fittingly, Wright's serves timeless American Lodge Cuisine including hearty yet elegant dishes such as Steak Diane, Coq Au Vin and classic souffles. A lavish Sunday brunch is also a special treat at Wright's with an array of fresh seafood, caviar, salads and sweets as well as traditional breakfast fare.

The Wright Bar features specialty drinks and patio seating with fire pits and spectacular mountain views. A favorite evening indulgence is its "High Tini" menu, which offers the latest trends in martinis and tasty appetizers. If you're feeling nostalgic, order a Tequila Sunrise; the classic cocktail was invented at the Biltmore circa 1940.

The Biltmore Grill has been newly renovated to host Frank & Alberts, which sports a relaxed, contemporary feel with airy views. Sicolo describes the new venue as "a bit of nostalgia with fresh, organic overtones" and its menu as "Arizona comfort food."

SPA
Your stay won't be complete without a visit to the award-winning Biltmore Spa, a 22,000-square-foot complex that includes men's and women's locker facilities and private steam rooms, saunas and whirlpools. The spa offers a great mix of traditional and state-of-the-art treatments. Spa director Carol Ford says that today as in the past, the facility incorporates a number of philosophies in its menu of treatments without being gimmicky. "We all want to stay true to the Biltmore and who we are," she says.

Some treatments have their origins in ancient medieval and Chinese remedies as well as those of Native tribes of the Sonoran Desert. Others incorporate more modern approaches of the French, Swedish and Pacific Islanders. The Dream Catcher Aromatherapy Massage is an Arizona Biltmore signature treatment; a Native American inspired massage given with essential oils and heated stones.

Ford says many celebrity visitors to the Biltmore swear by the 50-minute Oxygen Infusion Facial-an infusion of oxygen under hyperbaric pressure followed with a rejuvenation serum. You can add the Opulence Brightening Infusion treatment with concentrated Vitamin C to reveal radiance, or opt for the Botox Alternative Infusion designed to smooth the forehead, soften the eye contour and plump and smooth the lips.

The Biltmore salon offers a full range of hair and nail services as well as makeup consultation, application and lessons. Makeup artists on staff also apply airbrush makeup for special occasions.

SAVINGS
Experience Ocatilla--the Biltmore's new "hotel within the hotel"--with all inclusive packages starting at $299 per night through the end of the year. The package includes access to the Ocatilla Club Lounge, continental breakfast each morning, lunch for two, dinner for two and 50 percent off spa a la carte services. Call 800.950.0086 (mention code P5) or book online at www.arizonabiltmore.com.

THE PHOENICIAN

The majestic lobby of the five-diamond Phoenician Resort can take your breath away at first sight, and in this case, looks are not deceiving. The splendid 250-acre complex rests at the base of Camelback Mountain and includes three USGA-approved golf courses, a 22,000 square-foot spa, a tennis complex, nine sparkling pools and elegant venues for meetings and weddings. The Phoenician also houses a $25 million collection of fine art and antiques, with art tours available to guests.

The most impressive quality of the Phoenician, however, is the spot-on service provided by staff members. Employees, from parking valets to the resort's executive manager, are fanatical about making each guest feel like a VIP-at every encounter.

ACCOMMODATIONS
Guest rooms in the main resort building share an impressive list of standard features including Italian linens, original artwork and plush Berber carpet. The oversized bathrooms feature Italian marble and have a freestanding soaking tub and separate shower. Full-width sliding glass doors in the 600-square-foot rooms lead to a private terrace or balcony. The resort also offers casitas and suites as large as 4,000 square feet.

For an even more luxurious stay, the Phoenician has opened a new boutique resort on the grounds. If in-person wakeup calls and sterling silver coffee service delivered in your suite each morning is your idea of the ultimate escape, Canyon Suites is for you. The resort's regal lobby boasts Italian marble, Chinese maple furniture with plush upholstery in serene hues and floor-to-ceiling windows.

DINING

No matter what accommodations you choose, The Phoenician's eight dining venues will delight your palate. Executive Chef Paul Carter oversees the operations of 10 kitchens onsite as well as a staff of 110. "Perfecting simplicity" characterizes Carter's philosophy for great food. He believes that instead of "reinventing the wheel" when it comes to recipes, it's more important to prepare them the right way. "We just want to be better every day," he says. "People's expectations are sky-high when they come (to The Phoenician). You have to want that challenge."

J&G Steakhouse is a restaurant that meets those expectations. A sophisticated menu is complemented by stunning views and a soft modern decor. The bill of fare is built around fine cuts of meat and a global selection of fresh fish accompanied by distinctive appetizers and side dishes.

Or, for a more casual setting, you can enjoy the fabulous flavors of Southern Europe at Il Terrazzo. The restaurant's exceptional menu is inspired by the cuisines of Tuscany, Sardinia and Sicily. Be sure to take advantage of the Phoenician's award-winning wine program directed by Master Sommelier Greg Tresner; he's a walking encyclopedia of wines who can tell you all about the exceptional vintages from around the world offered to the resort's guests.

Another dining delight at the Phoenician you won't want to miss is afternoon tea. Luxurious linens, Wedgwood china and Reed & Barton silver help set the proper mood for this full tea served in three courses. Particularly memorable are the fresh-baked scones with imported Devonshire cream and fruit preserves.

SPA
The Centre for Well-Being at The Phoenician offers guests a variety of treatments that incorporate both Old World programs and newer services to detoxify and reinvigorate. The spa features 24 private treatment rooms, weight training and cardiovascular studios, a meditation atrium and a salon.

Spa director Sheryl McCormick believes this private retreat within a retreat should offer a peaceful haven for mind, body and soul. Try the Desert Serenity Scrub and Wrap for an intensely hydrating and regenerating body treatment using mineral-rich clay, aloe vera and Sangre di Drago.

And don't miss the Spa Boutique, which offers a delightful selection of items to help you keep the experience going once you get home. We especially like Zents body wash, lotions and sprays, available in a unique and refreshing assortment of scents such as Sun and Earth. Pay a visit to Betty Williamson, a long-time sales associate who can fill you in on the boutique's fabulous line of skincare products and distinctive apparel.

SAVINGS
Through Dec. 31, you can save 50 percent off every second night with a two-night minimum stay required. Call 480.941.8200 or visit www.thephoenician.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL MONTELUCIA RESORT & SPA

If you want your Valley escape to transport you to another realm, you don't need to go farther than the InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa at Tatum and Lincoln Drive. The resort's other-worldly ambience is created by the architecture and lifestyle of Andalusia in southern Spain--a region with a rich cultural history influenced by its Roman, Greek and Moorish occupation.

The Moroccan-inspired Joya Spa, five stunning pools and upscale restaurant help create this engaging enclave surrounded by impressive mountain views. You can reserve private luxury cabanas at the inviting Kasbah, Oasis and Joya Terrace pools, which are the focal point of the resort.

ACCOMMODATIONS
Guest accommodations at the resort are divided into five smaller "villages" with unique personalities--from high-energy digs in the heart of the resort's main pool and activities to more private, couples' retreats away from the action. Within each village a variety of room types are available but most offer the 504-square-foot Montelucia signature room with a balcony or patio, luxurious bedding, 42-inch LCD TV, high-speed wireless internet and a tiled bathroom with a sunken tub and separate luxury shower

DINING
The resort offers a signature restaurant and bar, spa bistro, pool bar and grill and cafe featuring wood-fired grilling with a Spanish accent. The signature restaurant is Prado, which features private dining, a wine cellar and patio dining with breathtaking views of Camelback. With Chef Claudio Urciuoli at the helm, Prado gets its culinary inspiration from traditional Andalusian cuisine with fresh ingredients prepared simply in an open, wood-fired brick oven.

Located within Prado, the Mbar's happy hour is becoming a Valley favorite. Monday through Friday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., the venue offers $5 house wines, house cocktails and imported and domestic beers. Also $5 each are happy hour tapas including Tortilla de Patata, Jamon Serrano and Assorted Olives & Marcona Almonds.

SPA
The enchanting Joya Spa is a spacious, Moroccan-inspired environment covering 31,000 square feet including a Hammam bathing area, 19 treatment rooms, plush lounges and a peaceful spa pool terrace with mountain views and luxury suites--as well as a top-of-the-line fitness center.

Under the leadership of spa director Sabrina Cormack, Joya Spa blends new technology with Old World simplicity. The spa's signature products feature the distinctive scent of Queen of the Night cactus and are available at the spa boutique.

The Joya Spa Happy Hour, every Thursday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., is a great deal for resort guests and locals alike. Choose from a special menu of Joya Spa mini treatments for $55. Or choose the Salon Happy Hour where you get a shampoo, conditioning, blow-dry styling, petite manicure and a martini for $40.

SAVINGS
This fall, the InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa offers rates from $160 with a two-week advance purchase, and Arizona residents receive 15 percent off all spa services with an Arizona ID. Call 480.627.3200 or visit www.icmontelucia.com.

Tammy LeRoy is Editor in Chief of PhoenixWoman.