Fall Back in Love With Love

Relationships, the gurus tell us, are all about balance, so where better to reconnect than a glorious resort settled in a perfect state of visual grace and sunshine? The sweeping views at The Four Seasons Scottdale at Troon North are indeed among the most prized in Scottsdale. High in the Sonoran Desert, in the cooling foothills of Pinnacle Peak, we found total relaxation in Southwestern-style casitas. Yes, the views were heartbeat-skipping as we basked in sun-drenched weather and astonishing scenery. This peaceful desert landscape is the perfect way to re-ignite a waning relationship.

I fell in love with the rocky setting overlooking the hotel, where I found a refreshingly unstuffy atmosphere, discreet service. And we're completely smitten with Talavera, serving elegant, modern food the sort which makes us want to beat doubters of the potential of fine dining in hotel restaurants with a big stick. Serving the freshest seasonal cuisine with a focus on American cuisine shaped by the piquant flavours of the Southwest are the trademarks of dining at Talavera. Statement pieces adorn the restaurant interiors and blend seamlessly into great nights of al fresco dining. It's a massive treat, from the Lobster Tasting: Bisque, Salad, Fritter to Tempura King Crab, Beef Roulade, Wasabi Root, Ponzu to the Chilean Sea Bass, Potato Risotto, Artichoke, Braised Oxtail. Indeed, at The Four Seasons Troon North, food and service exceeds expectation, and sometimes even deliver levels we'd forgotten we deserved.

Remote, romantic, but most importantly, proof that style and a stunning setting can be enjoyed more when it's a little off the beaten track. Guests enjoy laid-back style in the bar and drawing rooms and relish in understated sumptuousness in the bedrooms. The room feels like an oasis. Large and with a gorgeous walkout terrace! Eminently comfortable, with more than enough space for two. Arizona-luxe expressed in fine form.

After a trip to Asia, where service can be anywhere from hit-and-miss to distressingly rude, I relish the consistency of the Four Seasons brand and service ethos. Everything is top-notch with no attitude or pretension. Friendliness reigns.

Not to Be Missed: The Four Seasons Troon North Spa

A refuge of head-to-toe pampering, the hotel spa features a range of skin and body treatments, scrubs, wraps, facials and massages, inspired by the spirit and ingredients of the desert. Here are my top two recommendations.

Four Seasons in One

Experience the sensations of winter, spring, summer and autumn in one evocative treatment. Enjoy a refreshing peppermint scrub followed by the warmth of a herbal wrap. Then delight in a medley of massage techniques and conclude your journey with a hair and scalp conditioning treatment.

Shirodhara

Surrender to true relaxation as a steady stream of warm, herb-infused oil is poured gently over your forehead, centering your mind and rewarding your senses. The oil is then massaged into your hair and scalp with an application of ayurvedic herbs to nourish and condition. Hands and feet also receive special attention, ensuring a calming, nurturing experience.

Pampering started well before my treatments. As soon as I stepped through the spa doors, I was embraced by a relaxing and warm atmosphere and exceptionally welcoming staff. My therapist, Lynette, was a revelation of healing. So gentle and intuitive, she had me blissed out within minutes. I think I may have moaned her name at one point. The decor at the spa depicts an old world elegance, which is a nice change from its more modern counterparts. It is a true place to unwind. Whether you curl up with a magazine on one of the comfortable chairs or chat with friends or your partner, the relaxing environment will instil a calm that will take your treatment to the next level.

Si Si Penaloza
		About the author:
		Si Si has cultivated strong ties with editors, producers and publishers at all major Canadian media outlets. She is a seasoned print, radio and broadcast specialist. Graduating Magna Cum Laude from Bowdoin College in Maine, Si Si moved to Manhattan to study Film at New York University. Her strengths lie in contextualizing relevant content for a broad audience. She's driven to stay competitive and at the top of the market - commissioning exclusive features and launching bold initiatives.
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