Property Spotlight: Mountain Shadows Resort

The History: First opened in 1959, Mountain Shadows sits at the base of Camelback Mountain in Paradise Valley, Arizona. Known for being a mecca for celebrities in the 60’s and 70’s, stars such as Liz Taylor, John Wayn, Lucille Ball and members of the Rat Pack all frequented the resort until Marriott (property owner since 1981) decided to close its doors in 2004, citing financial reasons. The property was vacant for a decade, the buildings themselves conceding defeat to the desert as it worked diligently to reclaim the land. In 2014 Westroc Hospitality and Woodbine Development collaborated to reimagine the property, tearing down what was left of the buildings on site to make way for a complete new build that would become today’s chic, modern version of the classic hotel. In an area known for its many upscale resorts and swanky restaurants, Mountain Shadows makes no exception and has rightfully claimed its own niche as the sexy, luxury, adult-forward new(er) kid on the block. Fully completed in 2018, the hotel now boasts an 18-hole golf course, an on-site restaurant led by a James Beard award-winning chef, a sparkling pool flanked by cabanas, and all with a million-dollar view.

Best Suited For: The Mountain Shadows Resort is a stunning, newly built property with a mid-century modern luxury vibe. While families are welcome, this property definitely caters more towards adults. If you’re seeking a relaxing getaway with all the luxuries and amenities you can imagine, delicious cuisine, and a tranquil pool area, this is the place for you. During peak season (October - May), rates would be considered more attuned to your traditional luxury traveler, and are comparable to the other high-end resorts in the Scottsdale/Paradise Valley area. However, during the low season (June - September) rates can actually be quite reasonable for even your budget traveler.

The Guest Rooms: Whether popping in for a single night or staying for a month or more, Mountain Shadows has the place for you. Accommodations range from signature guest rooms (featuring 427+ sq ft of living space, a king or two queens, and private patio), to premium rooms (all with 427+ sq feet of living space, larger patios, and upgraded views of either the gardens, mountain, cabanas, AND some with the option of separate soaking tub area with a spectacular view of Camelback mountain). The Presidential Suite sits on the third floor and comes with 1,123 sq. ft. of living space - including a spacious living room and a massive 633 sq ft private patio.

In addition to the guest rooms, Mountain Shadows offers resort residences available for the discerning traveler and longer-term guests alike. These studio to three-bedroom suites range in size from 427 sq ft to 3,400 sq ft of living space, and include full kitchens, living rooms, office space, private patios, and even washers and dryers. While there is no minimum night requirement (to date), guests who stay at the resort for a minimum of 30 nights can also take advantage of significant discounts available for these suites, making it well worth extending a trip.

The Amenities: Mountain Shadows has a wide range of activities and amenities to satisfy every travelers’ needs. These include:

Golf: While it may only take 2.5 - 3 hours to complete, The Short Course offers a full 18-hole, Par 3 course that is deceptively challenging. PING club rentals and preferred tee times are complimentary for guests, and the course offers exceptional views of the mountain throughout. Once you have worked up an appetite, you can grab a meal or a refreshing beverage at Rusty’s, the coarse-adjacent casual outdoor dining restaurant next to the clubhouse. With golf carts available for rent, a Wine Wagon to keep players hydrated while on the course, and pros available to assist you with your swing, guests will definitely enjoy their world-class golf experience.

Pool: The center jewel of the property, the sparkling pool attracts those seeking relaxation and the ever-present sunshine that Arizona offers in abundance. Lounge seating, cabanas for rent (which include televisions and bottle service), and a poolside restaurant/bar serving a more casual dining experience are all available. It is also worth noting that, while many resorts in the Scottsdale/Paradise Valley area host summer pool parties complete with DJ’s and debauchery, Mountain Shadows is NOT one of those properties - a perk for those looking for a more relaxed vibe while catching some summer rays.

Fitness Center (open 6am - 10pm): A 4,000 sq foot facility awaits the guest that loves to remain active while on vacation. With group class offerings such as yoga, aerial yoga and pilates, as well as a well-equipped weight room that boasts Precor machines, kettlebells and free weights. There are also often activities such as yoga on the lawn hosted on property, that guests and locals alike can enjoy.

Spa: While Mountain Shadows does not have an on-site spa, it does have a partnership with its neighbor, Sanctuary Resort Spa, and guests are encouraged to enjoy one of the country’s top destination spas during their stay. Concierge services at Mountain Shadows can coordinate your reservation, and they offer complimentary transportation between the two properties via their Tesla fleet. If you’d prefer to have the massage come to you, the concierge can also arrange for an in-room service, often with little to no advanced notice required.

Restaurant & Bar: Welcome to Hearth ‘61, a seasonal American fare restaurant headed by Chef Charles Wiley that incorporates organic ingredients and local flavors to inspire his world-class menu. The food, while decadent, also pleases with its simplicity. When the flavors and presentation are there (as they are in spades at Hearth ‘61), gimmicks are unnecessary.

In addition to the general dining room experience, there are often events and specials centered around the restaurant and bar that even the locals partake in, including weekday happy hours, live music on the weekends, a monthly food and beverage pairing series called the Sunday Supper Club, and a sunset champagne toast every Friday evening. The chic bar opens at 6am for espresso drinks and coffee, and remains open until midnight or later daily.

Gallery: One of many unique features of the Mountain Shadows Resort is the art gallery located in a wing off of the reception area. WIth exhibits that rotate every two months, the gallery features artists connected to Arizona and the Southwest in some way. If you happen to be on property at the start of one of the new exhibits, you are also welcome to join an opening reception (complimentary) that often includes wine and passed appetizers, as well as a brief talk from the artists themselves to introduce their works.

Event Space: The property offers meeting rooms, outdoor lawn and patio space, as well as two large ballrooms with varying capacities for your event space needs. Whether hosting a business conference or in need of a place for your dream wedding ceremony and reception, Mountain Shadows can accommodate.

Nearby Activities: Located at the base of Camelback Mountain, Mountain Shadows has easy access to the popular trailheads on both sides of the mountain, as well as a plethora of additional hiking and mountain biking trails that surround the property.

Also, a quick 10 minute drive will get you to the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, and all of the activities and nightlife that the area has to offer. World class restaurants, art galleries, luxury shopping, and the late night bars and nightclubs for people who like to keep the party going after hours are all available at your fingertips.

I recommend Mountain Shadows Resort to clients seeking an adult escape, whether that be a solo trip, a romantic couple's trip, or a group trip (think girls weekend getaway or golfing with the guys). Also an ideal destination for a picture-perfect wedding, this property has everything you need for a swoon-worthy vacation holiday. If interested in learning more about this gorgeous property, or if you’re ready to book a vacation or staycation here now, please contact me directly to design and reserve your stay today!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Scottsdale. In need of further inspiration? Check out Celine Serrao’s guide, Scottsdale Before the Veil.