EXCLUSIVE: ‘I went to Arizona expecting a week of wellness but this activity made my heart race’
Our writer head west for some rest and relaxation in the breathtaking landscape of Arizona and its sunny city of Scottsdale, fast emerging as a must-visit wellness destination
When you think of wellness, you probably picture pristine white spas and fluffy towels. What doesn’t automatically spring to mind are the mountains, cacti and desert plains of Arizona. But wellness is exactly what I found on my trip to the city of Scottsdale – known as 'The West’s Most Western Town'.
Less than an hour from the city in any direction there are peaceful deserts where you can do anything from climbing mountains and riding horses to enjoying calming sound baths and spa treatments, and I ended my visit feeling as rested as I would after a weekend at a luxury spa.
Where to stay in Scottsdale, Arizona
The first half of my trip was spent at the luxury Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale, where I was instantly soothed by the peaceful, tranquil atmosphere. Although it’s a large resort, the design of the buildings and the plants make it blend seamlessly into the impressive backdrop of Pinnacle Peak.
As Arizona borders Mexico, the resort’s four restaurants serve Mexican-inspired dishes alongside American classics, with an emphasis on authentic local flavours. For meat eaters, a steak from Talavera restaurant is a must, and for those who prefer something lighter, the avocado toast from Proof’s breakfast menu is not to be missed. I would also recommend ordering breakfast to your room at least once, so you can watch the sunrise over the mountains.
The spa
Spa treatments at the hotel are every bit as luxurious as you’d expect from a Four Seasons resort. My favourite was the nopal massage, which uses prickly pear cactus leaves (no spiky bits, I promise) to apply the cactus gel – known for its antioxidant properties – directly to your skin. It’s just dreamy in the hot weather.
I also tried desert bathing, which takes you into the nearby Sonoran desert for breathwork and grounding practices as you wander among huge cacti. Afterwards I felt so calm and relaxed. This is a must for anyone who feels like they’re always going at a million miles an hour.
Scottsdale's Old Town
If you prefer a bit more of a lively atmosphere, stay at Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale’s Old Town. With modern amenities and a mid- century design, it’s the perfect mix of past and present, and it’s located right in the heart of the Old Town, with its shops, art galleries, bars and restaurants.
When you’re feeling peckish, head to The Mission for modern Latin cuisine in cosy candlelight or FnB for its delicious seasonal menu. For a nightcap, the Rusty Spur Saloon should be at the top of your list – the drinks are affordable, there’s almost always a live country singer performing, and it’s so famous that everyone from Clint Eastwood and John Wayne to Vince Vaughn and Jennifer Aniston have stopped by for a drink.
Scottsdale is part of the Blue Zones project, which aims to make healthy living and wellness a priority and means certain restaurants have Blue Zone-approved dishes, centred around healthier eating habits. Everything I tried was nutritious and full of flavour.
Relax and reset
I tried out a sound bath at the Shanti Sound meditation centre, and although I was a bit sceptical about the benefits beforehand, I came away feeling like I’d just done three rounds of therapy and a spa treatment all at once.
For outdoorsy types, a kayaking trip through the lower Salt River with Cliff Creek Outfitters is a must-do. You’ll be fully immersed in the Arizonian landscape, as well as getting the chance to spot wildlife such as bald eagles and wild horses.
In terms of bucket-list activities, there were two absolute standouts that I managed to tick off on my trip. The first was a hot air balloon ride with Hot Air Expeditions, which took us out over the desert, including over the famous Happy Valley neighbourhood. Hitting heights of 4,400 feet in just a basket may sound scary, but it was so unexpectedly peaceful and the incredible views are worth every heart palpitation.
The second was a guided horse ride through Tonto National Park with Windwalker Expeditions. As a keen equestrian back home, this was extra exciting for me, but you don’t need to know your way around a saddle to enjoy it. There’s something so calming about riding past eight-feet-tall cacti, desert landscapes and craggy rock faces on horseback. It’s an experience that will stay with me forever.
To plan your visit to Arizona, visit Experience Scottsdale.
