Growing up in California, I’ve always had a special love for the beach. Ocean breezes, salt in the air, crashing waves, endless sea and magical sunsets- I’m here for it all. The beach has always been my place to think. When things aren’t going well or I’m feeling down, I take a quick drive and feel my troubles start to ease when the waves come into view. Considering this great affection for all things seaside, I was more than a little surprised to feel a similar sense of calm when I visited Sedona for a girls weekend. Desert? Really?? Hot, dry and no water in sight. That was different for me, but a welcome feeling all the same. I realized after that fabulous girls weekend, and the getaways I’ve had over the years in Palm Springs, the desert has a tranquil vibe all its own.
On a recent work trip to Arizona, I had the chance to stay at Loews Ventana Canyon Resort. It was my first time in Tucson, but would definitely make a trip back to experience this resort again. It has girls getaway vibes written all over it. If you ever find yourself in the Tucson area for a few days, or are looking for a great choice for your next girls trip, here are a few things you’ll want to do on your visit!
1. Explore the walking path.
Fresh off the airplane and looking to get some air and stretch my legs, I happen to notice a map and signs outside the main lobby for a walking path.
Since I’ve had some experience with what I thought would be a gentle walk (the infamous hike in Occidental) and things going a bit awry, I made sure to check the distance (0.5 miles) before I set out. The Loews property is totally worth exploring.
The property is built into the surroundings in a really beautiful way. I never knew there were so many types of cactuses… or cacti. Either way, there are lots of ’em.
2. Visit the waterfall.
Follow the path and signs and make the short climb up behind the resort. You’ll be rewarded with a gorgeous view and a waterfall. I marveled at what was essentially my backyard for my stay in Tucson.
3. Have a staycation in your room.
Treat yourself to at least one dinner in your robe… or breakfast in bed.
4. Have a drink (or two) by the fireplace
Winter nights in the desert are… chilly. That’s being nice; they’re cold. The large fireplaces in the lobby and bar area at Loews will call out to you. Grab a cocktail and cozy up by the fire.
5. Get pampered at the spa
Visit the spa on your first day at the resort. There is both a dry sauna and steam room, not to mention an adult-only pool. My spa treatment was delightful and the massage therapist actually hand-wrote me a thank you note. She was one of many friendly resort staff I encountered during my stay. Even if you don’t have a treatment scheduled, make yourself at home in the spa. At the very least, you can order drinks and have lunch by the pool. My only regret was that I didn’t make it to the spa until the evening before I checked out.
My first trip to Loews Ventana Canyon Resort has me thinking I need to make another trip; maybe in the Spring when it’s nice and warm and I can take full advantage of that adult pool. I’ll definitely add it to my growing list of favorite desert getaways!
What are some of your favorite weekend getaway destinations??