So many great places to stay, so little vacation time. That’s what comes to my mind when I think about the resort and hotel options in Scottsdale, Arizona. From lux stays at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North and Mountain Shadows to the hip and cheerful Hotel Adeline, I’ve found something to enjoy everywhere I’ve stayed in this charming desert city. During my latest escape, I spent two nights at Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale.
A bit off the beaten path, this Arizona retreat is located in the high Sonoran Desert foothills north of Scottsdale. Set on 1,300 acres, it’s massive. It will take a day or so to get your bearings, but wandering is part of the fun. Named for the said to be 12-million-year-old granite boulders studded throughout the landscape, it’s the type of property you check into and stay put to take advantage of the backyard.
Accommodations
Boulders offers 219 guest accommodations; the majority are stone-colored adobe-style casitas that blend in with their surroundings. Clustered together, none of the 160 casitas are more than two stories. There are also 59 haciendas and villas that offer anywhere from one to five bedrooms.
I stayed in a Sonoran View Casita with a king bed overlooking the golf course. The Sonoran Desert inspiration is apparent from the moment you first enter, thanks to the combination of the stone floor, tall wood-beam ceiling, wood-burning fireplace, and cushy brown leather chairs.
The wet bar was stocked with a small refrigerator, Keurig coffee machine, mugs, and assorted glassware. Electric tea kettles are available by request, but tea bags are not provided. I was disappointed to see bottled water still being provided in single-use plastic. All casitas also feature a patio or balcony overlooking the desert landscape or golf courses.
A pocket door separated the bathroom from the main living area. Strategically placed glass blocks provided nice natural light; I especially appreciated the full-length mirror, make-up mirror, and lighted mirror hanging above the sink. The double sink vanity provided plenty of counter space for two guests and their toiletries.
Along with a shower, there was a separate bathtub. The water closet is smart design, allowing two people to use the bathroom at the same time while providing some privacy. There was also a large closet that offered plenty of room for hanging clothes and dressing.
Public Spaces and Facilities
The list of amenities is long and worthy of planning a day around. The main pool and hot tub are located directly behind the Lodge. The paved Nature Trail is a favorite of people, quail, and jackrabbits; the Boulders Trail climbs up among the piles of boulders, offering stellar views of the desert landscape.
All adult guests are welcome at the spa. With a whopping 24 treatment rooms, the spa offers a range of services, including facials, massages, and salon services. However, guests do not need a spa appointment to take advantage of the labyrinth, adult-only pool, hot tub, sauna, fitness center, and classes. For an extra fee, activities including rock climbing, star gazing, hiking, and biking can be booked.
There are two 18-hole golf courses with striking views of the Sonoran Desert. The Boulders Golf Academy offers private and group lessons using on-course playing time and video analysis. The Boulders Golf Club features a pro shop, practice range, pool, and two restaurants.
The neighboring Tennis Center offers four plexi-cushion courts, four premier asphalt courts, and a dozen pickleball courts. There’s also a tennis pro shop with two tennis instructors that offer private lessons and weekly clinics.
Dining Options
The Boulders’ signature restaurant, Palo Verde, serves breakfast daily and dinner five nights a week. Start the morning with southern Sonoran offerings including Huevos Rancheros, breakfast enchiladas, or Southwest Biscuits and Gravy. At dinner, options might include Braised Short Rib Mole Rojo, a Stuffed Poblano Pepper, and Guajillo Glazed Seared Salmon. Delightful al fresco dining is available.
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For a livelier dining experience, head to Spotted Donkey Cantina. The Baja Tacos are worthy of a repeat visit. I recommend getting one filled with beer-battered mahi-mahi and a second with southwest shrimp. The La Canasta Chips and Tres Salsa starter is more than big enough to share, and there’s a rainbow of margarita options.
A handful of other dining options round out the onsite selections: the casual Grill Restaurant & Bar serves lunch and dinner overlooking the golf course, the Discovery Lounge is steps from the front desk, and the Spa Café offers a light and healthy spin.
Good to Know
It’s easy to do a lot of walking at this resort. Paved paths run throughout the property, but getting from one place to the next can take a bit of time. For example, the Lodge to the Spa can take 5 -10 minutes on foot. Golf carts are available on demand for guests who would rather not rack up steps.
Phoenix/Sky Harbor International Airport is a 33-mile drive. Rideshare service is an option, but it’s not as readily available and can often require longer waits, so be sure to budget extra time.
Rates for a Sonoran View Casita with a king bed at Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale start at $589. There is also a daily resort fee of $35 that includes basic Wi-Fi, golf club storage, self-parking, spa access, and bell staff gratuities.
Check rates online at Expedia, Booking.com, or Hotels.com.
Review and photos by San Francisco Bay Area travel writer and television correspondent Dana Rebmann. Her stay was organized by Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale, but as always, her thoughts and opinions are her own.
