There are over a dozen spas in the valley, but which one will really give you heaven on earth?
Set amidst the enormous property that is the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, the Willow Stream Spa is the perfect retreat from a hectic week of work and school.
This lush resort is home to the PGA Tour's FBR Open and the highly acclaimed $70 Marquesa brunch. Stroll along all 450 acres, which are perfectly manicured to complement the gorgeous McDowell Mountains in the background. The Princess is one of the only resorts in town to receive the coveted AAA five-diamond rating.
Check-in at the woven wood and silver-accented spa desk for any one of the many treatments offered. Whether it is a facial, massage, reflexology session or exfoliating body scrub, W.S. has you covered from head to toe.
Upon arrival, guests receive a personal tour of the spa: The co-ed hot tub, the inhalation room, Swiss shower room, steam room, sauna, either women's or men's only whirlpool, fitness center, atrium for dining, snack station, massage area, salon, and the private Mesa rooftop pool.
Your next step will be the locker room where a W.S. signature cotton robe, Sensei slippers and a mini water bottle await you. Store purses, clothing, and other belongings in a keyless locker and begin your journey.
Before having your treatment done, take a dip in the heated whirlpool. Sit under the tiny water spout and look up to the sky window. This will loosen muscles up for a good treatment.
I recommend the 60-min. sports massage. This $149 treatment is a deep tissue massage that enhances muscle recovery and focuses on sore spots; perfect after a long day of golf or a tennis match. Or try the 90-min. Thalasso Kur treatment. For $239, your body will be wrapped in rich, rejuvenating sea minerals. Skin will be soaking in the Algae for 20 minutes while an acupressure facial exercise and scalp massage are given. After removing the wrap, guests are immersed in a hydrotherapy sea salt bath. Following the soak is a massage with Lavender oils and mineral cremes.
After having the tension worked out of your body, shuffle toward the Swiss shower to rinse away some of the massage lotion. Then have a seat in the steam room to flush out impurities.
Next, grab some organic cookies and cactus tea on your way up to the rooftop pool. Pull the curtains shut and take a nap in one of the private cabanas (try and snag the one in front of the fireplace).
When you awake from your slumber, head back down to the co-ed pool where you will find three waterfalls that rigorously knead your tired neck and shoulders.
An excellent way to end the day is in the inhalation room - it's perfect for finding inner peace. Here you can enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy in a meditative state and sit with your newfound glow. Then leave worries behind at the Princess and embrace a higher level of relaxation after your Willow Stream experience.
Plush spa robes and Willow Stream-exclusive products are available at the gift store for purchase or on-line. For appointments call (480)585-4848.
Reach the reporter at fame7@hotmail.com.
