What it is

A just-revamped 645-room legend of luxury, with a world-class spa, 8 restaurants, and jaw-dropping pool complex—all nestled on 250 acres.

What it isn't

Just about lounging around. On-site activities include a Phil Smith-designed 18-hole golf course and 4,600-square-foot athletic club complete with arcade games and foosball.

What we think

When Phoenician founder Charles Keating decided to create an ultra-pampering resort at the foot of Camelback Mountain, he did it as luxuriously as humanly possible: you’ll notice 11 Steinway pianos, 24-karat etched ceilings, and white marble from Carrera, Italy at seemingly every turn. (Perhaps the grandest show of opulence: the Mother of Pearl serenity pool, which is lined in a million dollars worth of mother-of-pearl tiles). No surprise that the final result is cinematic, and has therefore taken star turns on screen—everywhere from “Raising Arizona” to “Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous.” We love that guests can choose from guest rooms or casitas, though whatever you opt for is bound to be gynormous (rooms start at 530 square feet) and tricked out with a private terrace, plush wool Berber carpets, Frette linens, and Roman oval bathtubs.

You're here because

You want “it all,” and you won’t settle for less. Here, they’ve thought of everything, including 90-minute golf course safaris and bunny “hoppy hours” for the kids.

The Moment

You can picture Kate Middleton getting quite chillaxed at Afternoon Tea in the main lobby here—it’s been voted the best in Arizona more than once, but you’d wager it’s the best in the region. Sitting on the veranda, desert stretched out before you, you take a sip of your sparkling wine and another bite of your buttermilk and cranberry scone with Devonshire cream and lemon curds. You’ll be back tomorrow—and every afternoon after. Award winning, indeed.

Restaurants & Bars

Il Terrazzo - Contemporary Italian and regional classics

J&G Steakhouse - Steakhouse with modern flare

Relish Burger Bistro - American classic, casual setting

Café and Ice Cream Parlor - Light breakfast/ lunch

19th Hole - Grab n go style

Oasis Pool Bar and Grill - Sandwiches, grilled specialties, salads and snacks

Thirsty Camel

Afternoon Tea Court

Bars in Il Terrazzo

Relish

J&G Steakhouse

Location

Just under 8 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, on 250 acres under Camelback Mountain. Hikers won’t want to miss the nearby Cholla Trailhead up to the summit.