Kagehitokiri

in 2009 the membership initiation fee was $15K and they do have a ton of (free) classes

valid point re farthest spa room vs farthest mountain room
closest mountain rooms > http://www.bing.com/maps/?v=2&cp=pkm...80&form=LMLTCC
i found walk from casa del sano (at right) fine, just used resort flip flops for hot pavement

cant recall, sanctuary spa lap pool may be adult only http://www.bing.com/maps/?v=2&cp=pkm...80&form=LMLTCC
sanctuary also has residences with private swimming pools (and tennis courts)
and smaller 3rd/4th resort pools - http://www.bing.com/maps/?v=2&cp=pkm...80&form=LMLTCC

hairpeace

Thank you for your comments. And, yes, pictures welcome

Cardboard55

Obviously YMMV. We actually prefer Proof over Talavera, though we like both quite a bit. I think it's great to have two such different options right there on the property, so you can go to the right place depending on your mood.

robyng

I stayed at the Biltmore a couple of times ages ago (on business trips - it was convenient to where I had to do business). I think of it as more of a "city hotel" (by Phoenix standards). Most of the rooms there that I saw were pretty dumpy (I had colleagues traveling with me) - but I suspect it's been renovated at least once or twice since then. OTOH - the architecture was amazing. Worth a visit if not a stay. If I had to think of comparable properties closer to home - you're talking about places like the Breakers or perhaps the Boca Raton Resort & Club. Unique architecture but less than luxurious accommodations by contemporary standards.

I've stayed at the FS a few times too - because my brother lives near there. I've been there both in high and low season - and too many kids/people in the pools/pool area is definitely an issue in low season (summer). I suspect that's the case just about everywhere in summer when the daytime temps are always > 100. The architecture is kind of generic SW. FWIW - even though I'm from Florida - I find the summer heat in that part of the world insufferable. OTOH - you can see things in summer that are closed to the public in winter (like large parts of Taliesin West).

I don't think Phoenix/Scottsdale have any "to die for" properties. So I would pretty much go on the basis of location - perhaps golf courses - and whether you prefer unique architecture - more contemporary lodgings - or something else. Robyn

OneHourPhoto

Looking for a 3 night solo getaway over the 4th of July weekend to relax/"veg out".

I think I have made my choice between Sanctuary and FS but looking for some additional feedback.

Which one of these of these two has the best "out the door" activities? Being able to head out for an early morning 10+mile run? or a good fitness hike? ( I will probably rent a car, but rather not drive anywhere)

Sanctuary seems to have a lap pool, which is a plus

Since it will be in July with the oppressive heat. I don't see myself hanging by the pool all day. Which one has a better lobby/quiet room area or an outdoor "shade" area, where I could sit and read, relax?

I am not a foodie, so that part does not matter much to me.

I am between, Sanctuary or FS, but would like other options that also fit. Looking to break in my new AMEX Plat and FHR options

Thank you

aa213bb

FS has some decent/good hiking right around it, IIRC.

Kagehitokiri

sanctuary is on camelback mountain and has access to back road surface streets

routes include >

https://www.sanctuaryoncamelback.com...triathlon.html
https://www.sanctuaryoncamelback.com...edule_2014.pdf (june)
it does

zero humidity and no sweat made me less/not bothered by heat, just have to stay hydrated (i wasnt doing 10-mile runs)

http://www.sanctuaryoncamelback.com/...sadelsano.html
$600 after FHR 3rd nt free - residential villa with private pool and private tennis court (and sauna)

linked villa had great outdoor area, im sure same for all villas. although ask them to make sure you have (or they get one for you) an umbrella/etc that blocks rays from sun. i got some sunburn on my legs after sitting in shade of umbrella.

could ask about shade in some of the spa guest rooms
those are shown here, along with trees etc (and lap pool) >
https://maps.google.com/maps?q=Sanct...71883&t=h&z=19
http://www.bing.com/maps/?v=2&cp=pkm...80&form=LMLTCC

spa / training discounts >
https://www.sanctuaryoncamelback.com/spa/specials.html

new - http://www.sanctuaryoncamelback.com/...modations.html >

theLuxuryTravelExpert

Per your request: I hereby forward you the link to the photos that I took during my recent stay: http://theluxurytravelexpert.com/201...e-arizona-usa/

I have to go back to the Phoenix area next year, and I intend to stay at the Four Seasons again afterwards to relax a little, as it is still my preferred resort in the area (and a stap above the Fairmont, Camelback Mountain Sanctuary and Canyon Suites at the Phoenician). I just hope it will not be that busy while I am there, so that I can enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. As I wrote before, my major complaint with the resort is that is not very enjoyable when it's at full capacity.

I am still not sure whether to try out Amangiri instead of the FS, although I am not sure whether the resort is worth the long journey (and extra flights). Unless someone here can convince me of the opposite .