The Phoenician, A Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale

Character and identity

Spread across 200-plus acres at the base of Camelback Mountain, this 585-room resort is a desert oasis in the most literal sense: cactus gardens and sculpted rock formations give way to lawns, fountains, palms and a three-tiered pool complex anchored by the original mother-of-pearl tiled swimming hole. Architecturally it is sprawling and softly contemporary after a three-year refresh wrapped in 2018, with rooms in tan desert tones, a 40,000-square-foot spa, an 18-hole golf course, and dining that runs from all-day Mowry & Cotton to the fifth-floor J&G Steakhouse. Service is polished, formal and consistently attentive.

Who's it for

Bottom line

What defines a stay here is the sheer breadth of amenities executed at a genuinely high standard, with the spa and new fitness centre the standouts. Book a Canyon Suites room for a quieter, more intimate experience with its own pool and breakfast, or a pool-view room in the main building if you want to be in the thick of it. Avoid peak convention dates.