A Sanctuary In Paradise
Sanctuary On Camelback Mountain
By Jane Cassie
The full moon casts a golden sheen on desert flora and
silhouettes the rugged geological camel shape that reigns over his domain.
Stars blanket the sky. The night is still and serene. From within my private
courtyard, the picturesque vista unites with unparalleled peace, and while
soaking in my soothing tub, I realize that I have truly discovered a
sanctuary in paradise.
 This
is just one of many encounters with the sublime that I revel in during my
two day stay at the Sanctuary On Camelback Mountain. Terraced over
fifty-three heavenly acres, high above Arizona’s Paradise Valley, this
destination resort, I find out, features a cornucopia of modern day
pleasures that meld harmoniously with its ageless Camelback Mountain
setting.
Slate floors lead the way to a chic lobby entrance and
discreet reception area, where friendly staff welcome me upon arrival. The
contemporary design integrates with an Asian feel by infusing smooth lines
of golden maple, stainless steel and accents of stone. Just beyond awaits
the award-winning Elements Restaurant and the continuation of the
minimalist, yet sophisticated décor. Cylindrical lanterns, shoji-like
screens, and rich olive accents all blend with polished refinement. A
community table that bisects the room imbibes a sense of casual comfort.
Here, those dining solo can mingle, and others who may not have made
reservations will not be disappointed.
Behind the scenes, Executive Chef Charles Wiley has not
only won approval from the most discerning palates who visit, but has also
been recognized by the U.S. and Food & wine magazine as one of “America’s
Best New Chefs.” In January 2003, he was also honored with the invitation to
cook at the renowned James Beard House. His farm fresh fare is based on a
culinary philosophy that embraces simple, yet elegant principles, and his
delectable menu changes monthly to reflect the harvest of the season.
Adjacent is the chic Jade bar, where the same signature
elements grace the scene, as well as modular furnishings and a nighttime
fire bowl that attract the outdoor patio-lovers. Walls of windows wrap
around this one-of-a-kind dining establishment, to boast awe-inspiring views
of Paradise Valley from every seat in the house. The setting is truly
spectacular and the vistas are indeed breathtaking.
 “There’s
just nothing like the setting here,” Director of Sales & Marketing, Kathy
Massarand, confirms during a tour of the property. "Sanctuary has a very
unique location on the north face of Camelback Mountain and has been
designed to capture stunning views while providing our guests with an
intimate setting." I soon appreciate the truth to this statement.
 Brilliant
desert flowers, prickly cacti and manicured gardens flank the winding
sandstone walkway directing us away from this main focal hub. Billowy palms
border the vast infinity-edge pool where I dip a little later, and Arizona
rays provide a warm embrace while I mold into the curvature of an elite
rattan lounge.
 Another
oasis is unveiled beyond the high-tech fitness studio, where top of the line
weights and cardio equipment host broad-vision TVs. Shimmering under the
shade of Asian-fashioned sails is a twenty five-yard outdoor lap pool. A
personal trainer is available for guests who choose to work out on this pool
deck, and for those who are into group classes, such as step or Pilates, the
nearby Movement Studio offers all. With hiking trails virtually out the back
door, and tennis courts out the front, bikes to rent, and award winning golf
courses just a few minutes away, there are enough tempting options to even
make me want to get into the fitness kick.
The heightened degree of luxury, however, is offered at
the Sanctuary Spa. Within its 12,000 intimate square feet, this
indoor/outdoor Utopian treasure offers an array of unrivalled sensual
delights. Contemporary rockwork slabs that line the walls of the entrance
area perfectly frame The Praying Monk, a signature rock formation on
Camelback Mountain that once held a spiritual significance for the first
native people. They worshipped the geological structure for protection and
now this symbol and spiritual presence welcomes guests as soon as they enter
the spa.
 Clean
contemporary lines compliment maple accents and soft desert tones in all ten
treatment rooms. Guests are invited to experience the eucalyptus steam room
and whirlpool sauna and, while waiting for their hedonistic experiences to
begin, their bodies curve to the shape of the reception room’s futuristic
bamboo lounges. In all of the rooms, doors open wide, to permit the bathing
from natural sunlight or the caress from a gentle breeze, while the
trickling sounds from the outdoor reflecting pond help relax the mind. While
under the auspices of trained therapists, and with the infusion of soft
strains of new age, tension evaporates and worries melt away.
 Whether
massaged by a man-made Vichey shower or cocooned in the arms of the
therapist while immersed in a Watsu pool, guests are sure to be lulled into
blissful tranquility. For an ultimate spa experience, Sanctuary offers their
outdoor Sanctum for two. Within the combines of an open-air,
cylindrically-shaped haven couples enjoy total privacy and total pleasure
with as many treatments as they wish – and for however long that they wish,
whether it be an hour or an entire day.
The history of the property dates back to the 1950’s
when, due to its pristine location and its reputation for providing discreet
privacy, it was an exclusive tennis club for senators and celebrities. Over
time there have been numerous revisions and renovations and, since opening
the doors in January 2002, this luxurious retreat on Camelback Mountain has
evolved into a world-winning retreat and spa.
More traditional mountain casitas were erected to serve
guests who love the lodge-type accommodation, and more recently, 24
luxurious spa casitas were created for those who, like myself, are drawn to
cutting edge contemporary design. Asian-inspired, the spacious multi-tiered
havens pamper with bold desert tones, custom-built furnishings, luxury
Frette linens and marvelous marble bathrooms. As well as a walk-in closet,
roomy shower, and cushy robe, I’m especially drawn to my deep soaking
outdoor tub, otherwise known as my private sanctuary in Paradise.
Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain
5700 East McDonald Drive,
Paradise Valley, Arizona 85253
480-948-2100
http://www.sanctuaryoncamelback.com
Images by Brent Cassie
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