For us east coasters, the “Gurney’s” name may ring a bell as the beachfront resort in Montauk but did you know the Gurney’s portfolio also includes a luxury desert oasis? Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, A Gurney’s Resort & Spa is just a short flight from NYC, located right outside Scottsdale, in Paradise Valley, Arizona.
Affixed in the landscape the infamous Camelback Mountain, Sanctuary has arguably the best views in the area. I know this because back in January, I escaped the cold, Connecticut winter with two girlfriends to unwind over a long weekend at Sanctuary. We arrived on a perfectly sunny day and were stunned by the breathtaking panoramic views.
After check-in, we walked the flawlessly manicured grounds to our casita. Unlike a traditional high-rise hotel, Sanctuary has casita style rooms detached from the reception area for a more private experience. The casitas are just a quick, yet beautiful walk (or golf cart ride) amongst the palm trees, overflowing bougainvillea, and cacti from the main area of the hotel.
As the door swung open to our Mountain View Suite, we were greeted by a wonderfully large living space, wrap around balcony, and a fireplace to combat the chill of desert nights. Each room in our suite was spacious with all the touchpoints you’d expect at a luxury hotel. The bathroom was large enough for three women to get ready at the same time (which is saying a lot) and the beds can only be compared to what it must be like to sleep on a cozy cloud. If you have a larger party or just prefer additional space, the Villas are quite lovely as well and some even have their own private pool.
One of the wonderful amenities at Sanctuary is the complimentary house car service. With many of Scottsdale’s restaurants, bars, and shops in near proximity to the hotel, we used this almost exclusively as opposed to spending time scheduling Ubers.
That is, if you decide to even leave the resort as the 53-acre property has a myriad of pastimes that could easily fill an entire itinerary. Sanctuary, which has a rich history as a racquet club, features several tennis and pickleball courts. You can pick up a game or schedule a lesson with one of the on-site pros.
If you’re interested in wellness activities that do not involve a racquet, Sanctuary also has a list of daily activities that range from sunrise yoga, Pilates, cycling, water fitness, sculpt, and guided bike and hikes in Echo Canyon. If you’re looking to get out and hit the trails, the house car will take you to and from the base of the infamous Camelback Mountain, which I highly recommend.
After all this activity, you can unwind at the renowned Sanctuary Spa. With 10 indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, central courtyard, reflection pond, and meditation garden, I emerged feeling like a new person. The spa boasts a lengthy list of services and also has an on-site salon should you need a fresh blowout after enjoying your massage and time in the steam room.
If you’re looking for something a bit livelier than the relaxation room, the Infinity Pool is just steps away. Here you’ll mingle amongst guests in spa robes, invigoratedhikers, and sun worshippers. The pool is a perfect spot to take a dip, enjoy a cocktail or lunch, and take in the views and was a much-needed respite for me after hiking Camelback. Need a break from all the sun? The Jade Bar overlooks the pool and makes some of the freshest cocktails I’ve ever tasted.
No visit to Sanctuary would be complete without a sunset reservation at their restaurant, Elements. The incredible view of the sun setting over the mountains is only enhanced the impeccable dining experience. We enjoyed a prix-fixe tasting menu with wine pairings that I’ve been dreaming about since. Each course seemed to outdo the previous yet the entire culinary journey worked together like a symphony.
If you’re looking to spend a weekend being pampered, in the sun, and finally return from a vacation feeling rested and refreshed, Sanctuary checks all the boxes and more.
No visit to Sanctuary would be complete without a sunset reservation at their restaurant, Elements. The incredible view of the sun setting over the mountains is only enhanced the impeccable dining experience.
The bathroom was large enough for three women to get ready at the same time (which is saying a lot) and the beds can only be compared to what it must be like to sleep on a cozy cloud.
