Sometimes the mind and body need a place to recharge. The nourishing rays of sunshine and warmth of another region can be just what the doctor ordered, and it can be found a short plane ride away in the wild, wild west of Arizona.
by S. Lindsey
Whether you enjoy fine dining, a massage or two, cocktails in the pool, a round of golf and more, it is the perfect place to take part in it all.. Then repeat as often as you can until it’s time to catch your flight home. The fact that you never have to leave your hotel to indulge in everything listed above, well that’s what makes resort travel so fantastic.
Sure, there are hundreds of properties that make you comfortable while you’re a guest. And then there are properties like the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch that make your stay so enjoyable, you’ll never want to leave. In the world of hospitality, that’s a good problem to have.
Nestled in the shadow of the majestic McDowell Mountains, the 27-acre resort is nothing short of a desert paradise. Towering palm trees line the lush green landscape studded with flowering cacti, rocks, and native plants. The sound of gently flowing water echoes around every corner with 10 pools on property, a large Jacuzzi-style spa, an adults-only pool with swim-up bar, and even intimate pools for two that allow you to create your own oasis in the sun.
Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa At Gainey Ranch
One of the biggest perks for staying at this Hyatt Regency is an exclusive invitation to play one of the top-rated private golf courses in the country, Gainey Ranch Golf Club. Just across the lake from the back of the resort are three nine-hole courses designed by Benz and Poellet. Each day, two nines are linked together to build a unique 18-hold golf experience. The Lake features a variety of water features in a lush, garden setting. The Dunes is dramatic and inspired by Scottish courses. Arroyo is the longest and most open course with a meandering desert wash that creates a natural hazard.
When booking your room at the main resort, make sure to book a Regency Club level room if possible. This gets you extra amenities like access to a private lounge with outdoor seating where you can enjoy breakfast, snacks and beverages throughout the day. But the biggest perk is access to Spa Avania. You’ll want to book at least one massage or other relaxing treatment, but by being a rewards member or staying in a Regency Club level room you have daily privileges that include a comprehensive fitness center, group boot camp classes, steam room, sauna, hot tub, and plenty of time to unwind in the healing French mineral pool under the palms.
On-site dining and entertainment options are plentiful. Alto Ristorante and Bar serves up delicious Italian fare, perfect for a lively family meal. For something unique and romantic, there are two ideal options where you put your trust in the chefs and let them take you on a culinary adventure. At Noh, a six-seat Japanese restaurant featuring a Omakase (It’s Up to You) style menu, sushi is the specialty. For $70 per person, the chef tailors your full dining experience with paired beverages all based on your personal desires. Next door at SBW, a southwest bistro, ask for the “Wine Me, Dine Me” option, which will put you at the chef’s bar right in the middle of the action of the open demonstration kitchen. The special menu changes daily, but features tequilas and wines to complement each inventive southwestern course. Pray for the mussels.
Scottsdale Hyatt
7500 E. Doubletree Ranch Rd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
480-444-1234
www.scottsdale.hyatt.com