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.
Treat yourself to an escape only miles from your Valley home. Here's a taste of one of Scottsdale's most elite stay-cation destinations.
I had never stayed at a Four Seasons, but now I’m considering moving to the Troon resort.Ok, that’s probably a little extreme, but it didn’t take long to feel at home amidst the lavish, luxurious desert grounds of the Four Seasons Scottsdale.
The BF and I arrived for a pre-summer stay-cation around noon Saturday, greeted by prickly pear iced tea as valet took our bags.
Our first stop was Crescent Moon, the resort’s modern and Mexican lunch-time eatery. We each ordered a tasty margarita, and said a special “cheers” to our stay-cay that lay ahead of us.
As we sipped our cocktails on the patio, we felt miles away from our McCormick Ranch house, soaking in the perfectly serene ambiance. Being from California, I didn’t grow up surrounded by desert landscape, so I could only imagine what the majestic atmosphere did for out-of-town guests.
We split the seafood cobb salad stocked with lobster, prawns, and crab, along with the lime-infused salmon accompanied by refreshing heirloom tomatoes. Our full tummies and minor buzz then craved a poolside nap.
And that’s exactly what we did.
The service truly sets the resort aside from others; Liv, one of the many poolside hosts, led us to two lounge-chairs seemingly waiting just for us. The BF and I made ourselves quite comfy lying out, as the sun warmed our bodies. Of course, we couldn’t resist taste-testing a mojito—but we decided to enjoy our drink inside the pool, considering the 100+ degree temps.
The sunny day seemed to fly by. At 2:45, Liv kindly gave us a courtesy reminder our pool-time had come to a close. That’s because we had 3:30 spa treatments; yes, we were bound to a tedious schedule. (LOL)
Before making our way to the spa, the BF and I checked into our premiere casita—room 2012 overlooking the pool and Pinnacle Peak. To the left of our room’s entrance was a walk-in closet (one I’d appreciate at home), and to the right, was the bathroom equipped with two sinks, a deep-soaking tub, and separate glass shower. Walk further into the room, and we were greeted by a plush king bed with perfect views of the 42” flat-screen. (Or if you prefer to keep things romantic, you can turn off the tube, and turn on the gas fireplace.) My favorite part of our room was our spacious private balcony, where a table and two comfy chairs sat awaiting our arrival. (Ok, my other favorite part was the two robes and complimentary slippers perfect for the picturesque retreat.)
Right before heading to the spa we got a knock on the door. There stood the concierge holding sangria, seven-layer guacamole dip, and tortilla chips. We were told this treat was a gift from the Four Seasons; thanks, Troon.
The time was nearing 3:30, so we made our way to the spa. We felt spoiled by this “royal treatment,” but it was surely welcome, as the BF and I parted ways to get our individual 50-minute dose of personal pampering.
My therapeutic massage was much-needed, and so was the chocolate-dipped strawberry that fulfilled my sweet tooth at its completion. I concluded my spa experience spending time in the sauna and steam-room, and then made my way back to our temporary humble abode.
Within minutes, the BF arrived looking just as relaxed and rejuvenated as myself.
Our dinner reservation wasn’t until 8:30, so we had time to “chill,” as if the whole day hadn’t been full of TLC. We draped ourselves in our white, comfy robes; poured some sangria; and sat on our patio counting our blessings, feeling extremely lucky to experience such luxury. Our afternoon outside also consisted of a gin rummy tournament—one I did not end up winning.
