There is a gift that all mothers want from their adult daughters more than anything else this Mother’s Day; and it is neither flowers nor cards.
They want uninterrupted time together!
Why not make this year’s celebration extra special by surprising mom with a girls’ getaway, be it overnight, for the weekend, or even longer?
For a Day: Cottonwood
Cottonwood is just 90 minutes north of the Valley, but it feels like another world. Usually about 10 degrees cooler than in anywhere in greater Phoenix, its walkable Main Street is kissed with wine, olive oil, and chocolate tastings thanks to Tantrum Wines, Four Eight Wineworks, Winery 101, Arizona Stronghold, and Provisioner; epic eateries in Nic’s, Pizzeria Bocce, Strada at Bocce, Crema Craft Kitchen, and The Tavern Grill; local ale houses in Belfrey Brewery and THAT Brewery; and a destination winery called Merkin Hilltop that offers a gondola ride to its front door and delights in pairing wines with hand-crafted pastas and homemade gelato. Together, this hidden gem culinary mecca makes it the perfect spot for a quick overnight “foodcation” together. There is even a half-mile wooded trail whose entrance is on Main Street, making it easy to burn off all the yummy food and drink together while enjoying the outdoors.
The best part: Main Street is also home to The Tavern Hotel, an ideal choice to make one’s home base. Nearly a century ago the historic section of the hotel was once a barn and through the years it housed various businesses until 2011 when it was fully renovated by an Arizona family to become Cottonwood’s first boutique hotel. It is a blend of light, bright rooms with vibrant yellow Adirondack chairs on each balcony and large cottages designed for a good girls’ night, especially the two-bedroom option that comes complete with a well-appointed kitchen and family room. There is also a pool on property for guests, and all those who book a room are treated to a welcome cocktail at the attached Tavern Grill as well as discounted bites at Crema Craft Kitchen for brunch the next morning. OldTown.org
For a Long Weekend: Emerald Bay
Mazatlán, which is just two hours from Phoenix via daily non-stop flights on American Airlines and remains on the same time zone as Arizona year-round, has long been considered a mecca for those seeking sun and fun in the heart of Mexico. The Zona Dorada – or Golden Zone – of the city is particularly popular for its bustling string of waterfront hotels and buzzy nightlife.
However, just 20 minutes north of the sometimes-crowded Golden Zone sits Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay. A laid-back, beachfront wonder dotted with greenery in every direction and secluded by design, Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay’s aim is to merge Mazatlán’s rich history with a world-class luxury experience that is especially perfect for a long weekend with mom.
The all-inclusive property, which is kissed with mangroves, palm trees, and natural waterways, sprawls across 20 acres of the Pacific Ocean. Given its expansive size, the resort is able to offer all guests suites ranging from approximately 500 square feet to nearly 1,000 square feet, so there is ample space for both mother and daughter (even in the closet). And despite its expansive size, everything feels just steps away, including a glistening beach that is accessible via a short walk beyond the resort’s four crystal-blue pools along a serpentine trail frequented by inquisitive pink flamingos.
Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay is also home to the 16,500-square-foot Armonia Spa, which was named among the “Top 20 Best Spas in Mexico and Central America” by Conde Nast Traveler, and features both on-property culinary outlets – notably a French eatery and a stunning international bistro – and exclusive access to Casa 46 nearby. Famed for its authenticity and tribute to the founders of the city, Casa 46 is equal parts interactive museum, art exhibit, and vibrant mixology bar, with Michelin-level cuisine.
Finally, between the property entertainment and concierge teams, everything from eco-tours and boating to tennis and snorkeling are available at the touch of a button. PuebloBonito.com
For Even Longer: Maui
Looking for the ultimate mother-daughter spa escape? Consider splurging on a trip to Maui’s iconic Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. Earlier this year, the lauded beachfront resort opened its $55 million, 50,000-square-foot Kilolani Spa, the crown jewel in what has been a sweeping renovation to the 40-acre property that also included the debut of five re-imagined restaurants; new modern interiors; and striking upgrades to all rooms and suites.
Now the largest spa in the state, this bucket list place for all things pampering is inspired by the Hawaiian moon calendar and boasts 40 treatment rooms, native botanicals, signature products hand-crafted on Maui, and holistic treatments such as sound healing.
Meant to be a full sensory experience over a series of days, the spa features open-air hydrothermal gardens with cleansing showers, a sauna, a steam room, a vitality pool, waterfall showers, and a garden. Connecting these spaces is the hydrothermal circuit designed to welcome groups to experience wellness together. At the heart of Kilolani Spa is the only Hammam in Hawaii, which is a multicultural sanctuary designed for communal rituals and private treatments. There is also a meditation lounge, which invites guests to partake in guided meditation using innovative harmonic therapy, and a reflection lounge, which offers inspiring ocean views. Outdoors, the saltwater pool is a soothing flotation experience, flanked by halotherapy-infused infrared saunas.
Beyond the traditional and moon-inspired spa experiences, Grand Wailea also offers immersive cultural opportunities including hula lessons, craft making, and a lūʻau featuring Hawaiian ceremonies, music, and dishes such as poi, kālua pig, poke, and haupia. GrandWailea.com
Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay’s aim is to merge Mazatlán’s rich history with a world-class luxury experience that is especially perfect for a long weekend with mom.
Looking for the ultimate mother-daughter spa escape? Consider splurging on a trip to Maui’s iconic Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort.
