Sorrel River Ranch, Moab, Utah
A tour of the Southwest will usually include several scenic National Parks, but you don’t have to worry about pitching a tent. There are luxury resorts to cater to those wanting a bit more pampering.
Moab, Utah:
The views of immense red rock formations at the Sorrel River Ranch are unmatched. Surrounded by 360 degrees of scenic Southwest desert landscape and perched on the bank of the Colorado River, guests will instantly feel relaxed at this remote resort.
Guests can indulge in a gourmet meal, treat themselves to a massage at the spa, enjoy the adventure of horseback riding, or read a book from the porch swing of their room.
The impeccable service at this resort will leave guests feeling truly appreciated and spoiled.
For those wanting a more active vacation, a concierge is at hand to book ATV rides, river rafting, mountain biking and more. Also, the nearby Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park offer scenic hiking and photo opportunities. For a selection of restaurants and shopping, head about 20 miles to the town of Moab.
Zion National Park, Utah:
For real ranch-style accommodation with modern amenities, visit Zion Mountain Ranch. Situated just three miles from the entrance to Zion National Park, this resort offers sweeping meadows views from its 2,700-acre property.
A variety of cabins sizes are available, appropriately decorated with a Southwestern ranch theme. The cabin suites provide guests with a claw-foot Jacuzzi tub and rain shower.
For fun without leaving the ranch, guests have the option to choose from horseback riding, a wagon ride, or guided hiking. An onsite restaurant, The Buffalo Grill, offers breakfast lunch and dinner with wide-open views of the land and glimpses of the large herd of buffalo that lives on the ranch.
After a day of strenuous trekking in Zion National Park, guests can book an appointment with the resort’s certified masseusse to unwind with a private massage in one of the cabins.
Perched on a plot of mostly undeveloped land, this unique resort is one of the few opportunities to access a National Park without the hustle and bustle of tourism.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona:
A rustic luxury lodge located in the Grand Canyon National Park, El Tovar Hotel is rich in history and provides views from the canyon rim. Established in 1905, the resort is a Registered National Historic Landmark.
Although the décor is reminiscent of a lodge from a bygone era, the amenities are modern. The hotel has 78 rooms that feature cable TV, a telephone and air conditioning. This is a non-smoking hotel. Rooms rates range from $174-$426.
The restaurant is pricey, but the views and fine dining are worth the expense.
Located on the Rim Trail, guests can easily walk out of their rooms and take a leisurely stroll to various lookout points to see the Grand Canyon and all its splendor.
Scottsdale, Arizona:
One of finest resorts in Arizona, the Camelback Inn offers luxury Southwestern accommodation in pueblo-style casitas, fine dining at the five-star BLT Steak restaurant, an award-winning spa and local adventure activities.
Soothe the mind with nightly live music on the Garden Terrace. Guests can enjoy the lively patio atmosphere while seated under cabanas or next to an open fire.
Soothe the body by visiting the 32,000-square foot spa that features a restaurant, fitness center, lap pool and spa treatments such as massages, facials, and body wraps.
Soothe the soul by indulging in local cuisine at one of the many on-property restaurants. From Kobe beef at the upscale BLT Steak to poolside pizza and hotdogs at Hoppin’ Jack’s.
This desert oasis is not to be missed.
Written by Sharael Kolberg, http://www.sharael.com
