What to expect: This Phoenix resort looms as a monumental presence against a mountain backdrop. A huge, skylighted lobby with marble floors inset with mosaic tiles features stained-glass accents, flowering plants, conversation areas, stone columns with softly lit panels, and a huge fountain tumbling to a lower level fronted by a pond, palm trees, and dining terrace--all creating a desert-palace ambience.

Amenity highlights: A vast, four-acre water complex contains a freeform pool, a lap pool, a 15-person spa tub, a serpentine plunge pool, a lazy river, a waterslide, and a secluded sundeck with 26-person spa tub and firepit. A 28,000-square-foot health/beauty spa includes an outdoor lap pool, a bistro, and a fitness/exercise center. Golf facilities feature two championship courses, a complete practice facility, and a 25,000-square-foot clubhouse.

Insider tip: The area surrounding the resort includes a shopping/dining center named Desert Ridge Marketplace one mile from the resort.

Amenity highlights: The bistro 24 restaurant serves French-accented contemporary cuisine; seating is available both indoors and out on the patio. The Lobby Lounge features afternoon tea presented on Lomonosov Porcelain from St. Petersburg, Russia. The Club Bar offers fine cigars, cocktails, and appetizers.