A Spanish-Inspired Getaway In The Desert: The Royal Palms Scottsdale
Credit: Courtesy of The Royal Palms Hotel
The Royal Palms Hotel is one of my favorite hotels. Those looking for a 5-star experience in the middle of the desert should definitely look into making a trip here. Spanish-inspired villas and casitas create an outdoor retreat with a restaurant, bar, center courtyard, pool, spa, fitness center, and grand lawn all in between. The whole property is at the base of Camelback Mountain, surrounded by palm trees, and all outdoors which we love. Very conveniently located to bars, restaurants, spas & more - this place has it all.
Credit: Courtesy of The Royal Palms Hotel
Spa & Gym
The Alvadora Spa is open every day from 8:30 am to 5 pm and features a 24/7 gym (sign me up!), Friday-Sunday fitness classes, hot tub, and even in-room fitness options. If you really want to relax, let the spa team handle all the planning with an immersive experience customized just for you. Before or after your treatment, enjoy both the indoor and outdoor relaxation areas.
Credit: Courtesy of The Royal Palms Hotel
Bars & Restaurants
T Cook’s: Mediterranean menu in a vibey yet elegant desert setting; go for the patio to dine under the stars.
Mix Up Bar: Cocktail lounge off of T Cook’s; great spot for happy hour.
Cabana Cafe: Poolside bar open 10 am-5 pm daily.
Center Courtyard: Fave part of our stay was having sunset drinks and a nightcap here. There was always a fun, lively crowd no matter the time of day - and even better, everyone brought their dogs.
Private Dining: Custom dining experiences for up to as many as 60 guests; choose from indoor options or the outdoor patio.
Credit: Courtesy of The Royal Palms Hotel
Pool Scene
This 24/7 pool was a great place to hang for the day and no one seemed to mind that my pup came along. There’s one pool and one hot tub, each featuring its own ADA lift chairs for access. You have the option to rent a private cabana if you want to take things up a notch. Order right from your seat at Cabana Cafe and don’t skip out on the spicy margaritas.
Casita Living
Give me Spanish-inspired villas and casitas over traditional hotel rooms any day. Venture to your room through accessible outdoor walkways surrounded by trees, plants, and flowers.
The resort originated as a 1920s estate with Spanish-style architecture and you can still feel the rich history in their rooms, suites, or villas. All feature modern updates, like indoor fireplaces and spacious outdoor backyards.
ADA rooms include: 2 Standard Kings, 2 Junior Suites, and 2 Terrace Kings - all located in the Montavista Building and feature wider door entrances, roll-in showers, and a smooth rollout onto the balcony. Hearing impaired kits are available upon request to place in the rooms ahead of arrival.
Credit: Courtesy of The Royal Palms Hotel
Desert Property Vibes
This is a true 5-star experience in the middle of the desert. The whole property is at the base of Camelback Mountain and surrounded by palm trees making it the perfect backdrop for all your meals (and photos). The entire property is connected through smooth, outdoor walkways anchored with the pool and spa on one end and the rooms on the other, making it easy to get around for everyone.
In between, you’ll find our fave hangout spot: the courtyard, T. Cook's restaurant, a lawn with games and fitness classes, and different banquet halls and ballrooms for those looking for a destination wedding location.
Accessibility & Dietary
ADA rooms include 2 Standard Kings, 2 Junior Suites, and 2 Terrace Kings, featuring wider door entrances, roll-in showers, and smooth roll-out onto the balcony.
Wheelchairs are available on property for guests to use and staff can assist as well.
Braille menus can be ordered with advance notice. The team has, and can, read off menus if needed or preferred in addition to providing a detailed, personal recommendation based on the guest’s preferences.
Hearing impaired kits are available upon request to place in the rooms ahead of arrival, and the team is familiar with all parts of the kit and how to use and set up.
The front office team is happy to provide recommendations for local attractions, transportation, and scooter/wheelchair rental based on specific requirements.
Royal Paws Pet Program
We love a pampered pet moment! For those who want to let their dogs indulge in a luxury experience, this program features a pet food menu, plush branded beds, bowls, and tennis balls for use during the stay. The concierge will provide a map of the best pet-friendly spots on property in addition to a resources list with nearby pet shops, veterinarians, and more.
Credit: Courtesy of The Royal Palms Hotel
For stays of up to six nights, there is a $150.00 pet fee. Service animals are welcome and pet fees will be waived. Make sure to inform the hotel ahead of time so they can efficiently prep your stay.
What To Do In The Area
Very conveniently located to bars, restaurants, spas & more in both Phoenix & Scottsdale.
Scottsdale Fashion Square (5 min): Upscale, contemporary shopping complex with 200+ brand-name stores, restaurants & a movie theater.
Kierland Common & Scottsdale Quarter (20 min): outdoor shopping and dining destination.
Desert Botanical Garden (10 min): A super accessible outdoor garden filled with flowers and plants.
Can’t Miss Bars & Restaurants (8-10 min): Century Grand immersive cocktail experience home to Platform 18, Grey Hen Rx, and UnderTow; SumoMaya; Olive & Ivy; The Montauk; Maple & Ash.
Desert Belle Cruises (45 min): The ship has wheelchair-accessible restrooms onboard, as well as ramps from the marina people can use to board the cruise safely and securely.
Getting There & Getting Around
Most people will fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor airport located just 12 minutes away. Other options are the Scottsdale Airport (22 minutes away) or the Mesa Gateway Airport (40 minutes away). I did the drive from Los Angeles (with a Joshua Tree pit stop) and it really wasn’t terrible if you aren’t a fan of flying. Plus, then you don’t have to worry about renting a car. Uber and Lyft are plentiful here, but you may want to rent a car since there is so much to see and do in the surrounding area.
