Spa Places in the News

Westward Look Expands Sonoran Spa

The newly expanded Sonoran Spa at Westward Look Resort now offers a duet treatment room, organic facials, ayurvedic treatments and all-natural manicures and pedicures.

Treatments at this rejuvenating retreat are inspired by ancient desert traditions. Named for its lush Sonoran Desert setting, this spa embraces the philosophy of the desert as a healing source. Guests experience the benefits of therapeutic herbs and other native plants used by indigenous Southwest people for centuries. Sage, jojoba and other featured plants of the Sonoran Desert are grown just outside in the Wellness Garden.

The Sonoran Spa is a place where both men and women can escape from the sensory overload of today’s hectic lifestyle. In this intimate setting, they can relax, restore balance and invigorate body, mind and spirit.

In 2004 Spa Manager Debra Henrickson introduced new ayurvedic treatments inspired by ancient therapies and philosophies of the world, creating a distinctive “East meets Westward Look” experience. The Bindi body treatment features valerian, a very relaxing herb, and three traditional Indian herbs to balance and detoxify the body – cardamom, coriander and sandalwood. Organic facials feature imported essences of fruits, vegetables and herbs that cleanse and stimulate, leaving the skin clear, balanced and revitalized. The Sonoran Spa also features a duet treatment room for couples, girl friends and mother/daughter getaways.

Westward Look is ranked among the top three small spas in Arizona in the 2004 edition of Arizona Business magazine’s “Ranking Arizona.”

This nurturing environment encourages guests to linger, shedding stress and luxuriating in a slower pace. The sun-dappled terrace offers breathtaking views of the Santa Catalina Mountains and the lush Sonoran Desert. Rustic chairs, wood floors and Native American weavings recall the resort’s Old West roots. The spa is on the site of the first guest cottage built at this historic property shortly after Arizona became a state. The original sandstone fireplace has warmed guests ever since.

The wellness experience at Westward Look Resort also incorporates plenty of physical activity – with a nearby lap pool, fitness center, tennis courts, riding stables and interpretive nature trails. Classes include stretching, water aerobics and yoga. Hiking, mountain biking and golf are nearby.

Executive Chef Chris Pedersen creates inspired healthy delicacies, accented with herbs and produce fresh from the Chef’s Garden. Chef Chris’ innovative "Of the Season" cuisine features the freshest ingredients from the markets of the world. The Gold Room restaurant holds the Mobil Four-Star Award, AAA Four-Diamond Award and Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. The more casual Lookout Bar and Grille features Sonoran specialties,plus live music on the weekends.

A variety of spa packages are available for in-house guests and day visitors, as well as customized packages including a Stargazer Spa Room with private courtyard and outdoor hot tub. Appointments are available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily in the spa or in the guest’s room.

Newly renovated Westward Look is Arizona’s most authentic resort experience. Since 1912, this historic homestead has enchanted visitors with the simple pleasures of Southwestern hospitality. This 80-acre oasis in the heart of the Sonoran Desert features two nature trails with interpretive displays, four specialty gardens, a desert gallery and a high-powered Celestron 2000 telescope. On-site activities include hiking, horseback riding, birding, tennis, swimming, plus golf and mountain biking nearby. Suite-sized accommodations include a private balcony or patio with spectacular views of the desert, mountain or city. Sixteen meeting venues totaling 20,000 square feet offer abundant daylight, open-air brick terraces and views. The new ballroom features Tucson’s only rooftop terrace with panoramic views.

For more information, call 800-722-2500 or visit www.westwardlook.com.