Nestled at the foot of Camelback Mountain, just outside Scottsdale, Arizona is a piece of American history. Mountain Shadows resort has offered those looking to get away into the Arizona sun a wonderful place to relax since it first opened nearly 60 years ago. It recently reopened, capturing the spirit of Hollywood and glamor while attracting a whole new generation. I was thrilled to be invited for a three-night stay at this gorgeous property. I can absolutely confirm that whatever your interests you’ll find something to love at Mountain Shadows. I hope you enjoy my Mountain Shadows review and my thoughts on why this is the perfect Arizona getaway!
Mountain Shadows Review: The Perfect Arizona Getaway
History
Mountain Shadows originally opened in 1959, taking its name from the shadows of Camelback Mountain and Mummy Mountain which shade the resort in the afternoon. It quickly found success with international travelers and Hollywood stars. Not long after opening Mountain Shadows got its 15 minutes of fame as the primary backdrop for detective drama “The Brothers Brannagan.” It got another chance in the limelight in an episode of The Monkees’ television series. After exchanging hands several times the resort closed for good in 2004. In 2014 Westroc Hospitality and Woodbine Development Corp. teamed up to completely rebuild Mountain Shadows from the ground up. In 2017 the doors to this local icon opened once again and I must say the decor is to die for! Every inch of this property is total design and decor inspiration. I left wanting to totally redo my home!
Food and Drinks
Ever since it first opened in 1959 Mountain Shadows has been known for its amazing food. This tradition is still going strong today with their restaurant Hearth ’61. The kitchen is run by Executive Chef Charles Wiley who has been in the kitchen for over 40 years. He has also been named one of the best hotel chefs in America and was named one of the ten best new chefs in America. Hearth ’61 serves delicious American cuisine using local and seasonal ingredients presented so beautifully you almost feel bad for eating a work of art that gorgeous. This place is definitely foodie-friendly!
Hearth ’61 also has a wonderfully atmospheric bar that cannot be missed. From coffee in the mornings to late night drinks, the bar at Hearth ’61 has it all. But the best drinks are the amazing cocktails. From their Grapsil Martini, made using local grapefruit to the Root of All Evil you can find a variety of drinks to suit your tastes.
Golfing at Mountain Shadows
The first golf course at Mountain Shadows was constructed in 1960 and ever since the resort has been known as one of the best golf resorts in Arizona. Today that tradition is kept alive with a 34 acre, 18 hole course which was designed by Forrest Richardson, who had worked with the original course architect Jack Snyder for many years. The golf course has a very special Hole 17.5 which is affectionately called the Forrest Wager. The object of this hole is to play in a way similar to popular golf game Bingo Bango Bongo. It’s ideal for breaking ties or just having a little more fun before you reach the final hole.
After you’ve enjoyed your golf you can head into Rusty’s to lick your wounds, celebrate your wins, and grab yourself a bite to eat and something to drink. Mountain Shadows also hosts a number of special events throughout the year from couples golfing to business lunch offers.
Spa, Swimming, and Fitness
Of course, golf isn’t the only way to have fun at Mountain Shadows. They offer personal trainers who will help you achieve your fitness goals and a variety of classes from yoga to TRX. The gym offers gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains so you can enjoy the natural beauty of the area without suffering in the heat. I took an incredible yoga class that was the perfect start to my day!
The resort has two 75-foot pools and poolside furniture that will make you think you’ve stepped back in time to the early 60s. During the cooler months, the pools are heated so you don’t have to miss out on swimming just because it’s cold. But the most fun to be had is poolside lounging in the cabanas. They come with a fruit platter, bottled water, beer, or a bottle of wine. In them, you and 7 of your friends can relax in style and comfort.
While you’re relaxing do take advantage of the jacuzzi which will help you unwind even more in their top-notch facilities. Mountain Shadows takes healthy living quite seriously, which is why they have an easy to access juice bar to help you keep cool and fit. I was there during the summer, so I loved cooling down with this fresh Watermelon juice!
Sanctuary Resort Spa
Another benefit I’d like to mention in my Mountain Shadows review is the major perk of also having access to the world-class Sanctuary Resort Spa. Mountain Shadows house cars, which are Teslas, will run you back and forth between the two properties. I got one of the best massages of my life here and the views of Camelback Mountain are stunning to take in after a treatment. You can also use the pool and dine in the restaurants, so you truly get to experience two top-notch resorts!
There is so much history and so many things on offer, it’s easy to see why Mountain Shadows is the best place to stay in Scottsdale, Arizona. I hope you’ve enjoyed my Mountain Shadows review. With beautiful scenery, delicious food, and a modern yet retro feel, you’ll feel like you’ve found paradise. The staff at Mountain Shadows are amazing and if there’s anything you need during your stay they’re only a text away. Seriously, you can text the front desk and they will take care of whatever you need! I loved staying here and I know you will too. Right now is a great time to book and take advantage of their GRAND OPENING PACKAGE: Save 20% off prevailing rate and receive a welcome amenity, a one-time $100 resort credit, and daily breakfast for two.
I even created a video tour for you:
XOXO – Stuart
Looks like an amazing place to stay! The scenery looks amazing and it sounds like there’s plenty to do. Your photos are lovely, too. I’m glad you had a nice stay. 🙂
Christie’s Take on Life. xx
Oh my gosh, this is such a stunning location. I would love to be here. I would relax by the pool with a book and then check out the spa.
Oh my goodness! This place is absolutely gorgeous! I am dying to go to Arizona!
xx,
Lacey
The Glitter Gospel
What a gorgeous resort! It’s now on my bucket list!
What a gorgeous place to visit. I have never been to Arizona. I would skip the golf part and participate in everything else.
this place looks amazing!!
Sabrina | Gypsy Tan
https://gypsytan.com
This place looks absolutely beautiful! I don’t stay in fancy hotels and resorts that often, but I do like to go to them for the food! I may need to check this one out next time I go to Arizona!
Right now is a great time to book and take advantage of their GRAND OPENING PACKAGE: Save 20% off prevailing rate and receive a welcome amenity, a one-time $100 resort credit, and daily breakfast for two whoo hoo
This looks like a fabulous resort! Would love to visit next time I’m in Arizona! xoxo
Back in my band days I stayed out in this area while on tour for a week. It’s so nice out there, especially if you love that dry dessert heat!!
This resort is AMAZING. Hope to be able visit!!!
xoxo,
Angelle
http://www.dashingdarlin.com
Wow this resort looks so dreamy and the scenery is just gorgeous! Looks like you had an amazing time and the food looks so delicious! ❤️
This looks like a beautiful place to visit. The grounds look amazing and the food looks yummy! Would love to stay here.
What a gorgeous place in Arizona, and you had a fabulous time! This is definitely a must visit. Where is your next destination?
This looks lovely, perfect spot for a relaxing break. That skirt two-piece is super cute, love it 🙂
What an awesome trip! It looks like so much fun
Mindy amixofmin.com
it sounds like you had a great time! I am dying to explore Arizona!
xo!
Shelby
http://www.glitterandgingham.com
It’s been some years since I’ve been to AZ. I would love to go back soon. They have some of the most luxurious hotels around.
This looks like it was such a beautiful place to stay! The surroundings and atmosphere of it all would be so amazing.
that place looks amazing and the food super delicious. I was laughing a little at the picture of you at the pool. Did you notice that guy looking (drooling) at you?!
This place looks amazing! We go to Scottsdale every spring. I’ll have to check it out!
It’s sooo gorgeous!!! Planning a trip to AZ next spring, so I’ll definitely check this place out!
I would love to go on a getaway with just the husband and I. I honestly don’t even remember the last time we went on vacation. This place looks amazing! Very relaxing.
I love to read posts like this about places I’ll never get to visit. I’d love to see the mountains there and some spa time would be lovely too!
This looks like a beautiful place to say and those mountains are gorg – the most perfect backdrop!
xo, Sara
You sound like a newscaster in that video, so professional! Sounds like it was a beautiful fun trip! I’ll have to keep this resort in mind if I’m ever out in that area!
This looks stunning and gorgeous! I’d love to visit this place with my Hubs. Arizona is on our list of places to visit.
Your trip looked like so much fun! I need a vacation in my life ASAP!
I have been DYING for a vacation and this place looks amazing!
xo Jessica
http://www.whatsfordinneresq.com
I still can’t believe I’ve never been to Arizona! This looks like such a great place!
I’ve never visited Arizona, but if I ever get the chance to go, I know exactly where I’ll have to stay! This resort looks incredible – and the golf courses remind me of High School Musical 2 haha! Goals!
This sounds absolutely amazing!!! I would love to visit
This place looks gorgeous! I will have to add it to my bucket list!
http://www.thefitbrunette.com
Such a beautiful spot! We love Arizona!
This looks goooooorgeous!!! I’m actually heading to Phoenix at the end of the month – I’m super pumped now coz AZ looks BEAUTIFUL!
Coming Up Roses
This is the perfect getaway places! So pretty and the food looks yummy!
Xo, Patty
http://www.pattyskloset.com
Looks like a lovely place! And that indoor pool looks so inviting!!
Nicky x
http://www.nickyinsideout.com
Such a fun travel! Love these pics babe!!
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Brittney
Missxbo.com
This resort looks like a beautiful getaway in itself! Looks like you had such a great time! I’d absolutely love to visit there!
This really does look like the perfect getaway, I love your bikinis!
xx Kelly
Sparkles and Shoes
I was just talking with my husband last week about how we needed a getaway. This place looks fantastic… and so do YOU!