Photo Credit: Sanctuary on Camelback
Not only is it all about the serene mountain front views to be discovered from virtually every contemporary room at Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa, but it’s also about the first-rate service that makes this property a true desert oasis. Scottsdale is often regarded as a playground to the nouveau riche as well as a retirement retreat for some of the country’s wealthiest families, so it is a breath of fresh air to discover a modern haute spot that offers a true escape from it all.
Whether you choose take an invigorating hike, play a round of tennis or sign up for a body treatment at the on-site spa (which is under renovation, but guests are still welcome to use the facilities), you can choose to do it all or simply relax and take it all in.
Photo Credit: Sanctuary on Camelback
Sanctuary is located just two miles from Scottsdale’s Fashion Square Mall where you can shop at more than 200 restaurants and shops, including luxury boutiques like Tiffany & Co., Stuart Weitzman, Kate Spade, Tory Burch and Jimmy Choo (Louis Vuitton will be undergoing an expansion later this year and they will also be adding residential units along with a new hotel).
Photo Credit: Sanctuary on Camelback
Overlooking Paradise Valley and nestled on the northern side of the Camelback Mountain (the tallest mountain at 2,704 feet that mimics the shape of a reclining camel), there are just 109 stylish casitas here, each with an incredible view of the surrounding vistas. We recommend a stay in one of their spa casitas, a bright, multi-level unit tucked away near the spa and fitness center that features floor-to-ceiling windows, polished maple furnishings, a spacious bathroom complete with red flower amenities.
Photo Credit: Sanctuary on Camelback
If you stay here over a weekend, be sure to visit the on-site restaurant, elements, for Sunday brunch where you can get started with a fun cocktail like the Silver O made with Nolet’s silver, green chartreuse, maraschino, lemon, coconut and blueberry syrup. Our friendly server, Austin, got us started with some warm cinnamon rolls (which also make a sweet ending if you can save a few bites for after your meal) before we sampled the tasty shrimp and pork potstickers.  Moving right along, we recommend the enormous chopped salad, a hearty combination of maple pepper bacon, grilled chicken, corn, avocado, pumpkin seeds and cheddar cheese topped with a creamy buttermilk basil dressing. We also love the grilled chicken sandwich topped with gruyere, prosciutto, roasted pepper, arugula and basil aioli served with a side of warm chips. There is live music (think jazz, pop and R&B) held at the adjacent jade bar every Friday and Saturday night.
Photo Credit: Sanctuary on Camelback
When it comes to relaxing, you have three pools to choose from, including the popular infinity edge. Keep an eye out for standup paddle board yoga held first thing in the morning on the weekends.
There is a complimentary resort shuttle available to assist in taking you wherever you wish. They will even assist in coordinating some fun excursions like an Apache Trail day trip where you have a chance to view the beautiful Superstition Mountains or a six-mile hike along the Kiwanis Trail in nearby South Mountain Park.
Sanctuary on Camelback is located at 5700 East McDonald Drive in Paradise Valley, Arizona.
