By Kylie MacKenzie
It was time to recharge, take a breath, gloriously relax and spiritually connect Sanctuary Resort, a boutique retreat at the base of Camelback Mountain, was just what the doctor ordered, so to speak.
Nested in the nurturing landscape of Paradise Valley, this chic desert-inspired spa casita is our home away from home here in sunny Arizona. Bright, light and full of natural finishes, local photography and artwork, all the casitas and suites also boast soaker tubs, skylights and mesmerizing views.
Within easy walking distance, the Sanctuary’s distinctively designed restaurant and spa buildings continue the tranquil desert theme. We find ourselves just frittering away an hour or two in the Zen meditation garden with its lovely reflection pool that sets the tone for Asian-inspired services. Our treatments, the 12 indoor/outdoor suites and the custom-designed Watsu pool are beyond divine. No wonder the readers of Travel and Leisure have voted the Sanctuary the top resort in Arizona for 2015.
Back for their 14th year, the famed Lunch & Learn interactive dining 
experiences with the likes of celebrity chef, host of Grocery Games on the Food Network and author of Guy On Fire Guy Fieri, as well as world-renowned food critic Simon Majumdar, replace formality with fun. Much to everybody’s delight, Majumdar brought his unique perspective and culinary experience to the table. (In case you don’t recognize the name…Majumdar is a frequent guest on the Food Network shows Extreme Chef, Cutthroat Kitchen, and Iron Chef, and is the author of Eat my Globe.).
Events include a three-course meal paired with wine and, of course, the chance to mingle with other guests and get the inside scoop from a chef extraordinaire.
Dining here is memorable. Pick sunrise or sunset and romance will follow for sure. Chef Beau MacMillan, known for his Food Network celebrity, adds to the moment with innovative, simple cuisine can be appreciated for its natural taste and perfect presentation. Paired with the recommended house wines, you can’t go wrong.
MacMillan’s Oktoberfest Cigar dinners and coveted Sunday Brunchs are also legendary in the Valley! The Jade Bar’s Sunday red sangria and signature cocktail list alone make having a reservation the treat of the week. Our favourites: the Jessica Rabbit (a stellar blend of Pimm’s No. 1, Anchor Reyes liqueur, ginger syrup, and freshly pressed carrot and lemon) and the corpse reviver #2.
Sometimes less is actually more in our books.
