Hello from Nashville! I finally made it back home and am running around like a chicken with my head cut off trying to catch up on life. But before I go down a rabbit trail of to-do items, let's talk some more about Scottsdale, AZ. Earlier this week I shared the best places to eat and drink. So today I'm sharing where to stay.
HOTEL VALLEY HO
Hotel Valley Ho has been open since the 1950s and is the epitome of retro-chic. With classically cool roots, it stands as a modernist icon in Downtown Scottsdale. In its heyday, it was a true Hollywood hideaway to stars like Bing Crosby, Tony Curtis and many others.
Today, Hotel Valley Ho rooms and suites are cool and classic with a chic, modern twist. Each room is outfitted with floor-to-ceiling glass, uniquely Arizona artwork, and totally mod decor (we loved our apartment style suite with sweeping views of Camelback Mountain.) Aside from loving the general hotel aesthetic, the service was impeccable (and perhaps it was just me, but it seemed every employee was really attractive. No complaints here).
But my favorite part of the hotel? Hands down the pool. Here, you can relax in a colorful chaise lounge, cool off in a private cabana or take a dip in the pool and hot tubs. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails (we sure did) and light fare like sandwiches or salads, and you won't need to leave all day. Surrounded by palm trees, colorful decor and great music-- the Hotel Valley Ho pool is a vibrant oasis in the middle of the desert.
I had such a great time at Hotel Valley Ho and have recommended it to several friends already (who also had a fantastic experience). If you're looking for an experience with no shortage of fun and where luxury meets laid back -- look no further than Hotel Valley Ho .
THE SCOTT RESORT & SPA
If you're wanting to find a blend of the upscale appeal of a downtown Scottsdale property, but also the casual elegance of a lush desert retreat, consider The Scott Resort & Spa.
This lavishly landscaped property offers a bright + breezy pool by day and romantic fire pits at night. All of the hotel accommodations are designed with comfort + convenience in mind (I've never seen a more extensive menu of mini-bar options).
Also on property, The Scott Grill is an acclaimed restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and cocktails with Mediterranean-inspired simplicity and coastal Italian flair. We went for dinner and loved everything we tried. Prior to our meal, we enjoyed some treatments at The Scott's Jurlique Spa- complete with six private sun-washed treatment rooms.
While The Scott offers so many amenities of a resort you'd never leave during your vacation, it's proximity also puts you in the heart of Scottsdale's world-class golf courses, shopping, dining, art galleries, MLB Spring Training and outdoor recreation framed by spectacular natural scenery. So no matter what brings you to Scottsdale, you'll easily find yourself at home staying at The Scott.
Nestled into the foothills of Pinnacle Peak and amid towering saguaro cacti, you'll find the adobe casitas that make up Four Seasons Troon North. This Scottsdale resort embodies the desert's magic through thoughtful design and the outstanding talent of local artisans.
Yesterday I touched on Proof- the restaurant at Four Seasons Troon North. And while the restaurant is truly spectacular (not to mention someplace I'd recommend no matter where you stay) this property has way more to offer than delicious food.
When I first arrived to the property, I went to the spa for their unique "Sticks and Stones" massage (incorporating bamboo sticks and hot stones to ease muscle tension and sore joints). All spa products are inspired by the ingredients of the desert to give a custom "Scottsdale" experience. And while the treatment itself was fantastic, so was the entire facility. I lounged around for a bit after my treatment before heading upstairs to lunch (and I certainly took my sweet time getting ready).
The entire property is stunning and so enjoyable to wander around with no agenda. Every detail from small to large is carefully selected to flawlessly blend with the surrounding environment. If you choose to stay here, the guest rooms include patio doors that open to magnificent desert views (I mean, I could sit here all day).
I've had nothing but wonderful experiences at every Four Seasons property that I've visited (which is several now). They're always a sure-fire crowd pleaser as they seamlessly blend premium quality, luxury amenities, and impeccable customer service (all while still feeling approachable and not too stuffy). If you're looking for a resort destination to retreat to that's tucked away from the hustle + bustle of Scottsdale- consider Four Seasons at Troon North.
THE SAGUARO: SCOTTSDALE
Also mentioned as a recommended meal yesterday, The Saguaro is another great hotel option in Scottsdale. While I didn't stay here or spend much time besides lunch, I can speak from personal experience from my stay in Palm Springs (more to come on that later) that The Saguaro is a lively, vibrant and fun place to stay. Of the hotels listed above, I'd say it most closely compares to Hotel Valley Ho (although I'm sure the two have several differences to consider while booking!)
So there you have it! You've got options no matter if you're looking for a fun, energetic hotel in the heart of Scottsdale, a luxury resort to retreat to, or something in between the two. All of these properties are places I'd recommend based on my personal visits and experiences and I'm confident they'll give you a trip you'll love.
Shop the romper, scarf and other outfit details I wore below!
Stay tuned later this week, because we're not quite done talking about Scottsdale. Next up: all the great things to do! Until then, have a great Wednesday, friends!
xx
Whitney
