Top Spas in the Valley of the Sun

Top Spas in the Valley of the Sun

The Valley of the Sun is all about relaxation and there's no better place for it than at one of Phoenix's rejuvenating resort spas. Many feature Native American-inspired treatments and use indigenous ingredients such as agave, desert clay, and neroli oil (derived from orange blossoms). Try to enjoy not only the treatments but the spa amenities, including pools, whirlpools, eucalyptus steam rooms, and relaxation areas with outdoor fireplaces.

Aji Spa at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa. A gem on the grounds of the Gila River Indian community, Aji incorporates its Native American surroundings into every aspect of the spa, from the name ("Aji" is Pima for sanctuary) to its Sonoran design and treatments. The Blue Coyote Wrap ($185 for 80 minutes) begins with a dry brush exfoliation and an application of Azulene mud, and culminates with a cedar-sage oil massage; the 50-minute Tashogith white-clay facial ($125) is luxurious. Massages start at 50 minutes for $125.

Alvadora at the Royal Palms Resort & Spa. Romance is not limited to the restaurant and rooms at this Mediterranean-style villa, complete with its own pool and salon, where treatments incorporate herbs, flowers, oils, and minerals indigenous to the Mediterranean. The Orange Blossom Body Buff is a signature treatment: a full body scrub using the scentilating powers of neroli oil, and the Fango Mud Wrap promises good cleansing ($125-$135). The massage menu ranges from a 60-minute classic ($125) to the two-therapist Quattro de Palma ($225) and couples massage sessions ($250-$390). Spa use for nonresort guests is only Sunday through Thursday and requires purchase of a spa package.

Golden Door Spa at The Boulders Resort. If you're seeking the serenity of the desert, this is your place. Influenced by the Asian and Native American cultures, the spa is divided into two wings—east for relaxation and west for activity. Try a Native American-inspired treatment like the Turquoise Wrap ($130 for 50 minutes), which includes a Hopi blue-cornmeal body scrub and a turquoise clay wrap, or surrender to an Asian-inspired 50-minute Shiatsu massage ($140). A 50-minute massage is $130.

The Spa at JW Marriott's Camelback Inn. This is one of the Valley's most popular spas. Aches and pains will melt away with the 60-minute Native Hot Stone Massage (starts at $125); the Sonoran Rose Facial is two treatments in one and incorporates the hands and arms ($135). A 60-minute massage starts at $110. The Comfy leather chairs and a large TV in the men's spa lounge, and private poolside cabanas will make even the most hesitant spa-goer feel at home.

Sanctuary Spa at Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain. This sleek Zen-like spa has 11 Asian-inspired indoor-outdoor treatment rooms nestled against Camelback Mountain. Try a Watsu in-water body massage ($135-$195), a transporting 30-minute Thai Foot Reflexology massage ($135), or a Bamboo Lemongrass Scrub ($85-$195). A 60-minute massage starts at $135. Spa use is restricted to resort guests only.