Television personality and AZfoothills.com columnist Nadine Toren is scouring the area, finding savvy Valley features, bringing readers “on the scene.” Every day she’ll introduce you to celebrities, athletes, and give you an inside look into local events and hot spots. She'll touch on topical issues, and keep AZ fans posted on all the big talkers around town.

Want a lovely way to bid farewell to summer?  Well, hit the road and check out these Labor Day getaway ideas!  Here are A-list escapes easily accessible from the Valley. 

Looking for a last-minute escape this Labor Day weekend?  Well, if you’re up for a road-trip, you can easily access a handful of desirable destinations to celebrate the unofficial end of summer. 

Let’s take a round-robin around AZ, starting in Tucson.  You’ll definitely want to check out Loews Ventana Canyon, a resort nestled at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountain foothills in the Sonoran Desert.  The luxurious accommodations and serene spa is a great place to beat the heat, boasting a stunning, award-winning property.  The place has been named one of Conde Nast’s Top 100 Resorts, and scored #2 in the Top Ten Hotels for Nature Lovers by Sunset Magazine.  The AAA Four Diamond hotel is situated on 93 acres and includes a handful of tempting features.  Your man can hit the links on the two 18-hole Frazio-designed PGA championship golf courses while you savor the 7,000-square foot full-service spa.  There are also 8 tennis courts, 2 pools, and a fitness center equipped with a sauna and steam room.  If you’re feeling frisky, go for a horseback ride or work up a sweat hiking the surrounding trails.  It’s a must-see Tucson hot spot for serious R&R. 

For more information, visit:  www.loewshotels.com/en/Ventana-Canyon-Resort

But if you crave that rich red rock scenery, road-trip to Sedona.  If you want to spice things up, you’ll surely kick things up a notch at the property named Arizona’s Most Romantic Resort of 2010: L’Auberge de Sedona.    

The property is magical and mystical, offering all guests creek-side tranquility.  Yes, you’ll surely seek haven getting a sensual massage overlooking the stream, or fill your tummy fine dining along the beautiful brook.  The sound of water will put your mind at ease, giving guests an ideal elite retreat from the chaos of everyday life.  The hotel is in walking distance to galleries and shops, but if you prefer to stay put, opt for a treatment at the European style spa.  Depending on how much you’re willing to indulge, you can choose between a room, suite, or even a cottage.  At night, take part in the property’s stargazing sessions, and in the morning, find your Chi at its free yoga class. 

For more information, visit: www.lauberge.com