If not for the cactus-strewn landscape of Arizona’s Paradise Valley (a residential enclave of Scottsdale) and the famed Camelback Mountain looming nearby, guests of the newly opened InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa might imagine they were on holiday in the south of Spain. The 34-acre resort was inspired by the old-world village architecture and lifestyle of Andalusia region of Spain, among surrounding areas. In addition to Moorish motifs, courtyards, and numerous antiquities shipped from Andalusia, the resort’s two-story, 31,000-square-foot Joya Spa houses an authentic Turkish bath (hamman). Upon entering the cast-iron gates of the spa—conceived by renowned spa designer Sylvia Sepielli—guests can rinse their hands in the waters of a 17th-century Spanish fountain or enjoy a rooftop swimming pool that overlooks Camelback Mountain. Spa treatments are customized to an individual’s preferences, health, and skin type, using products containing the essence of a local cactus flower that blooms just 12 hours per year. Five of the 19 treatment rooms offer fireplaces, flat-screen TVs, and direct poolside access, where guests can recline in a cabana and order a traditional spa salad, or indulge in Champagne and truffles―or a burger and fries―following treatment. (480.627.3020, www.joyaspa.com)
—Jessica Taylor