Yearning for a little break this summer that isn't too far from home? One that can pamper the grownups as well as appeal to the kiddos? And has some pretty stellar dining options, to boot? The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain is dishing up a perfect summer getaway (even if just for a weekend), a mere hour-and-a-half drive outside of Phoenix.
Just a hop, skip and a jump south of Phoenix is a luxury destination located in Marana: The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain. Though the Ritz brand is synonymous with luxury travel, the Dove Mountain location goes above and beyond to make sure that all members of the family have an amazing home away from home during their stay--starting with the guestroom. While Mom and Dad will enjoy the cushy bed, the high-end bathroom (hello, soaking tub and rain shower!) and balcony for savoring mountain and cactus views, the kiddos will get a kick out of the in-room tent experience in which they will get a taste of the great outdoors without ever leaving their room. They can snuggle up in a sleeping bag, roast "marshmallows" and "hot dogs" around a faux fire, eat star- and moon-shape chocolates and learn about the night sky with a take-home book and pocket telescope.
Though the room is mighty cozy, the whole family will want to make plenty of time outdoors. First, there are three pools to enjoy, including the family-friendly Aventura Pool with a splash pad and 235-foot water slide. Don't be surprised if the staff makes the rounds with complimentary cups of ice cream to cool you off. At night during the summer, pop by the astronomer-led stargazing session during which you'll learn about the planets, moons, stars and more and get to see them for yourself up close in a state-of-the-art telescope. (The astronomer might even be able to shoot a great moon picture via your smartphone.) Nighttime also calls for heading to the spa Serenity Pool for a dive-in movie. If you don't want to get in the water, get there a little early to get a spot on one of the comfy loungers or by the firepits.
Because the adults deserve a little summer fun too, head to The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Dove Mountain for the 90-minute Desert Gemstone Ritual. The signature treatment combines a foot soak, a dry exfoliation and a soothing aromatic bath. Lastly, savor a full-body massage that uses healing gemstone placement--a gemstone that you choose at the start of your treatment. You will leave the spa--only after savoring a little time at the whirlpool with chilled cucumber slices on your eyes--feeling serene, restored and like your skin is the most luxurious swatch of silk.
Dining--arguably the most important part of any vacation--is on point at The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain, whether you want a casual lunch or a fine-dining dinner. At Ignite, opt for the amazing buffalo tacos and avocado fries or head to the poolside restaurant of Turquesa for a spiked and super-refreshing Arizona lemonade and the hearty, heat-inducing Turquesa burger with bacon and jalapeno aioli. If you're hitting the golf club (or don't mind taking a super-short shuttle from the resort), enjoy an amazing dinner menu at Cayton's Burger Bistro spotlighting top-notch burgers, steak and seafood entrees. However, some of our favorite eats were a little unexpected including the chili-dusted pull-apart rolls served with a mouthwatering orange grove butter and the sinful, but oh-so good whipped cream-topped milkshakes. To kick things up a notch, Core Kitchen + Wine Bar offers a stellar breakfast buffet, a long wine list and a remarkable menu of True American Cuisine (think incredible pork chops, wagyu beef and addicting truffled mashed potatoes that spotlight truffle oil and a sprinkling of truffle salt).
Seeking a July 4 staycation? The resort will host a July 4 weekend carnival, complete with midway games, food and beverage cookouts and an evening fireworks spectacular. Book your stay and check out summer specials here.
