Relaxing & Unwinding in Phoenix
Relaxing in and around
 ©2006 Scottsdale Convention and Visitors Bureau What could be more relaxing than yoga at sunrise? You'll find this and more at the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale and other spas in the area. |
You can also relax with endless games of golf, admire the beautiful variety of desert flowers and cacti on a late afternoon bike ride, or try your hand at river rafting. There's an activity for every season.
And, believe it or not, there's some good skiing and snowboarding near
Insider's Guide:
The Best of Relaxing & Unwinding in
Golf, golf, golf! Beginning January 1, you can play a round at a different course every single day in The Valley and you won't start repeating courses until at least late July. Some of the country's most beautiful and challenging courses are situated here. As you might imagine, prices for a single round can be pricey in the winter months. They, of course, come back to earth during the high heat months of summer, when golfers vie for the very earliest tee times.
Needless to say, there are virtually hundreds of public and private golf courses throughout The Valley. The Phoenician Golf Club (
Go where the Phoenicians go and get wrapped in desert nectar honey at the famous Mobil Three-Star Marriott Camelback Inn Resort Golf Club & Spa (
You can also just relax at the many resorts, most of which have special activities for the kids as well. Outside of the metro area, in the
Go north for about one hour from
The Valley is a wonderful spot for hikers. In the heart of the city, it's almost a ritual to climb Piestewa (Squaw) Peak for a commanding view of the city. Then drive to
Throughout The Valley, there are virtually hundreds of parks, greenways, and mountain trails for hiking. A gentle reminder and word of caution, though, especially in summer months: Don't overexert yourself in the mid-day heat, and be certain to carry plenty of water.
Now, everyone's heard about the dangerous critters that inhabit the desert. First, let's share a word about rattlesnakes. Some folks have lived in the region for years and have never seen one. But if you're hiking, wear high boots and stay on trails as much as possible. Most rattlers will leave you alone and will be just as happy if you offered them the same courtesy.
Then, there are scorpions, but again, you'll probably never encounter one. However, if you're camping, it's always good advice to shake out your boots in the morning before you put them on. Even if you happen to be stung by a scorpion, they're almost never fatal.
In the event of a bite or a sting, it's best that you report to a medical facility. Don't let the threat of an encounter spoil your holiday. Just watch where you sit and where you put your hands when you're in the desert. If you have an emergency situation, your best bet is to call 911.
If you have the time, a visit to the
There are plenty of motels and hotels in Tusayan near the park entrance on the South Rim. But be advised; if you're traveling in summer months, rooms book up fast and reservations are imperative, sometimes two years in advance!
From desert jeep tours to hot air balloon rides,
