A striking floral entrance below the Camelback Mountain is a knockout vision, setting the stage for a day of beauty at The Phoenician. The Phoenician’s multiyear renovation was heralded by the luxury hotel industry. After 30 years, nearly every aspect of the resort has been revitalized.
The Phoenician Spa was relocated with a rooftop pool providing dramatic mountain views. A sense of relaxation washes over as soon as you walk through the door. Check out the Spa Boutique and check in at the desk for registration. Come early and spend the day because moments here and moments there, roll into hours of pleasurable peace and wellness at the Phoenician Spa. An attendant will guide you to your locker with robe and slippers, then show you the amenities including a jet pool, dry and steam sauna, showers, snacks and infused waters and teas. The tranquil relaxation area for awaiting your therapist, is flanked by a bonus quiet area with individual lounges for meditation before or after.
The rooftop pool also has comfy lounge chairs, sofa seating or cabana rentals. A pitcher of ice water is promptly delivered along with a menu listing unique bites and beverages. Camelback Mountain, a popular hiking spot in the Valley of the Sun, looms above and behind the luxury resort. Palms point to the saguaros on the mountain framed by blue skies and occasional fluffy clouds.
The impressive native sculpture within a fountain between the spa and main resort pool is also the window view from the Vitality Hot Tub room in the ladies’ locker area. The recommended spa ritual before treatments is a hot-and-cold contrast hydrotherapy, for a duration of 30 minutes or less alternating between saunas, pools and cold showers.
Choosing a therapeutic treatment is challenging because of the wide variety. Suzella puts her body and soul into the Body and Soul signature massage. A sampling of the oils and lotion during the massage are first shared in a whispery voice. Reassurance of comfort with the fragrance of oil, temperature of the massage table, hot wet towels, position of head rest, knees, and feet signal all systems go or should we say ready to shut down as this is time for relaxation of body, mind, or soul. Section by section of the body is first oiled, covered with hot towels, then massaged with moisturizing lotion. This requires paused movement between cabinets to orchestrate, yet every part of the body is grateful upon completion.
The Phoenix Rising Scrub and Massage begins with a magnesium rich body polish, rinsed off with towels before a massage that “dekinks” any knots from life or the links. Linger on both ends of treatments for maximum satisfaction and transformation.
The Phoenician Golf Course skirts the side of Camelback Mountain, intersecting with the point of ascension by eager day hikers for dual spectating between golfers and climbers. A few holes covertly meander through a residential community, which never obstructs the desert serenity. A dramatic city view or artwork pops into the scene. Course Architect Phil Smith converted the original 27 holes into a full and fun 18-hole resort golf course, managed by Troon.
The expansive putting green and driving range with motivational music makes practice fun and the pro shop is equipped with all your golf needs. Colorful blooms enhance the complex. After a round, relish the balcony view and food upstairs at The 19th Hole or visit one of the many diverse dining options within the luxury resort. Make it a fabulous day at The Phoenician or stay and play in the lap of luxury for a long while.
