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Camelback Inn

4.5 star rating
based on 34 reviews

Categories: Hotels, Day Spas  [Edit]

5402 E Lincoln Dr
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
(480) 948-1700
Price Range:
$$$
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Parking:
Private Lot
Wheelchair Accessible:
Yes
By Appointment Only:
Yes

34 reviews for Camelback Inn

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Photo of Maria S.

Elite '09

34

250

Maria S.

Naperville, IL

4 star rating
10/17/2009

Fancy!
This was a great place to relax and unwind after an active vacation to the Grand Canyon.
It was kid-friendly.  There is a splash area near the pool and a playground on site.
The best bargin was breakfast brunch for the kids... $3.95 each!

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Photo of Yara V.

 

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35

Yara V.

Phoenix, AZ

5 star rating
9/27/2009

I have never stayed at the hotel, but I have gone to the spa several times and I LOVE IT!!  

I've been to several spas in AZ and I think this is one of the best, if not the best. The facilities are great and you can truly make a day out of it. Love the changing/waiting area as well as the sauna, women pool and outside patio. The food at the spa restaurant is very good.

I had gotten the massages and the loofah treatment's....You have to try the loofah treatment!!! Your skin comes out softer than a baby's butt, plus is very relaxing. The warm shower and the lotion afterwards, heaven I'm telling you.

To make it even better, the prices are  reasonable, which is a very welcome surprise.

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Photo of Janna M.

 

25

82

Janna M.

Santa Clara, CA

4 star rating
Updated - 9/24/2009

I went back this labor day for another extended spa weekend, and was not disappointed.  I'm downgrading to 4.5 stars only because we had to pay a higher rate this time, and while it was still well worth the money, I didn't have the stars in my eyes that I did when we were paying next to nothing.  Last year's rate was due to the huge renovation going on at the time.  This year we paid $269 a night for our room, a generous buffet breakfast and 2 spa treatments per day.   The tipping required at the spa, the resort fee, and various taxes brought the price up to about $350 a night, but even so, I felt like I certainly got my money's worth in luxury, and felt pampered and well attended to at almost all times.

I appreciate the variety of food choices offered, in particular the standard pool food offered at the Jackrabbit pool and the food from Sprouts at the spa pool.  It's really quite nice to be served food while sitting on a lounge chair in your bathing suit, and I liked the difference between the two pools.  At the Jackrabbit pool, I ordered a Pina Colada, a rare ultra-high-calorie treat, and it was just as expected, sweet and luxurious, and we shared a BLT salad which was nothing gourmet, but very enjoyable.  At the spa I had  bowl of sugar snap peas in miso dressing and shared the sliders plate (comes with just 2 small sliders) with my mom, which made for a very well-rounded and still light and healthy meal.

A surprising treat this year was a shiatsu massage with Greg (I think that was his name) that used lots of deep pressure to release and heal all kinds of muscle tension.  I felt fantastic after that massage.

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1 Previous Review: Show all »

  • 5 star rating
    9/12/2008

    Just spent Labor Day weekend with my mom at the Camelback Inn, and we absolutely loved it.  We… Read more »

Photo of Christie W.

Elite '09

3

59

Christie W.

Silver Spring, MD

5 star rating
8/18/2009

I stayed here this past weekend. The resort is beautiful. The scenery is breath taking. Every which way you turn you are surrounded by mountains, and cactus. It was a real treat for me being from MD.

This resort is very unique, as it is not like any other resort I have ever stayed in. Meaning all the hotel rooms are separated from the lobby and each other. It is more like a little village than a resort. The only downfall is it can be a bit tricky getting around. The rooms are numbered in a strange way, and everything looks the same. However once inside your room you will not be disappointed. The rooms are private and beautiful.

The lobby is beautiful,  and it is very relaxing. They have mist machines and lounge chairs, fire pits, fountains, live music, restaurants and a bar. The atmosphere is top notch. I loved sitting on a lounge chair, sipping my glass of wine, listening to the live acoustic band, and taking in the beautiful scenery.

Service is what you would expect out of a Marriott. Friendly and classy. I was not disappointed. The pool was nice too. They have a nice little casual restaurant for lunch located in the pool area, and they have servers who will bring you drinks and even lunch at your lounge chair if you wish. They had complimentary lounging rafts, and swim noodles, perfect since I spent most of my time in the pool due to the heat.

All and all this is a beautiful location, and I can now understand why this is one of Bill Marriott's favorite locations.

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Photo of Donna Z.

 

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26

Donna Z.

Boston, MA

5 star rating
7/22/2009

Despite the fact that it was 118 last week when I was there, this place was great.  The staff was so very helpful, and made sure I knew how to get around, and everyone that passed me greeted me.  That doesn't happen often these days.

They put me in a nice room overlooking the pool.  The pool was nice.  Very refreshing, and it helped that the staff came around with ice water often.  

The rooms are comfortable. The bath is big and clean.  The patio was nice to sit in the heat at night (I like that kind of thing).  

THe food was surprisingly good for a "hotel."  I loved the variety of margaritas and specialty drinks, and I tried many.  The wait staff was pretty helpful and attentive.  The breakfast buffet rocked.  I wish I could have sat there all day and ate.  

Room service was quick and friendly, and they always provided a nice little "dessert" with my meals- a cookie, or some chocolate.  Just enough to make me happy.

I'm looking forward to my next business trip to AZ.

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Photo of Heather S.

 

3

18

Heather S.

Phoenix, AZ

4 star rating
7/27/2009

I had a wonderful romantic weekend here at Camelback last weekend, and this place NEARLY has a 5 star rating in my opinion. The staff is incredible, the food is scrumptious (might I recommend that you eat at the bar and get sangria and enchiladas!?), the rooms are clean and very unique, and the parking was convenient and easy to carry in and out.  

The pool was nice, but not great. That's the missing star. No fountain to swim under, and not curved enough for little sanctuaries of privacy. I might be picky, but the Kierland is one of my favorite pools - and I have been to some classy pools in Tucson for a "staycation" or two - and this was just average.

At the end of the day, it was miraculously cool (110 degree day) and we took a walk around and it was so pretty, and we sat outside and had a drink and enjoyed the patio outside the bar and the live music - such a nice vibe.  

The other reviews are all accurate - even the local fued and the crowded pool!  I must say that we did NOT use the spa last weekend, but I did use it last year for a day trip with some girlfriends and it's a HUGE 5 star spa.  The pool is GREAT!

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Photo of Julie D.

 

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285

Julie D.

Cranberry Township, PA

5 star rating
2/19/2009

We visited the Camelback Inn for my recent birthday. I think we made an excellent choice. This resort is so amazing, I loved the beauty of the resort and the amazing fountain in the arrival courtyard. After we checked in, we were lead to our Casita by a very charming man in a golf cart. Wouldn't you know, it just so happened that he had visited Pittsburgh recently (our home) and it was great hearing about his visit there. Our room was amazing. Our king room was huge, our balcony had a great view of Camelback mountain, plus we were next to the pool and the spa was nearby. The furnishings was beautiful, loved the southwest inspired design. Plus, the bed and linens are super comfy. Everything here is first rate.

The grounds here as so beautiful. We had traveled here from the dread of winter. Wow, the weather here was perfect. There are beautiful statues on the grounds, nice water features, beautiful plantings. Also, the grounds are very romantically lit in the evenings. We also loved the ambiance of the outdoor fire pits.

My bff spent an afternoon at the golf course. He really enjoyed it, although he said it wasn't one of the best courses he ever played. But it was great playing golf in the February.

I visited the spa. I was very surprised how busy they were. The spa is very nice and relaxing. I didn't like that they didn't offer any privacy for changing, I glimpsed more T & A than I ever want to see again. But the robes were very nice and the spa slippers were very comfy. They kinda of had built in bumps to massage your feet as you walk. I loved them.

I had the native hot stone massage. It was very, very relaxing. I also had the best facial ever. I had the Dr. Perricone Anti-aging Facial. Desiree, my aesthetician, was amazing. She totally revived my dry and flaky skin and literally made my face feel brand new. And the treatment was so relaxing, I dosed off more than once. She also gave me a relaxing leg, foot, arm and shoulder massage. My body really enjoyed the special treatment. My skin felt completely hydrated. What a great experience.

Didn't try Sprouts, the spa restaurant. But we did dine at Rita's and B.L.T. My one regret is that we couldn't stay longer at the Camelback Inn. It's such a wonderful place.

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Photo of Stephany L.

 

1

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Stephany L.

Mesa, AZ

5 star rating
8/27/2009

I loved the setting of this place each room is very private, its not your typical tower hotel. the service is great and the stake at the restaurant is superb. i would definitely return.

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Abu J.

Phoenix, AZ

4 star rating
3/9/2009

A personal favorite, but not five star--in no small part because the place has a running feud with the locals who despite the fact that they are rich people sneak in to the pool. And the resort doesnt like that so it sometimes comes to stalag 17.

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Photo of Deb L.

Elite '09

476

212

Deb L.

Phoenix, AZ

4 star rating
8/2/2008

I love going to the spa   at Camelback.  This is one of the most relaxing , tranquil, rejuvenating things I can do for myself.  Each time I am there it feels like Bliss. I try not to think , plan, worry or listen to anything. I enjoy the view at the pool and let my cares float away.

This visit was  just as good and the massage was fabulous.  My
friend 's facial was divine.  I find the professional manner so calming when I  am there. The staff treats you like you are their only concern. Everything in the spa seems well thought out and planned.  You have the benefit of the saunas, Jacuzzis both indoor and out, pool, restaurant, weight room and exercise classes. I literally spend my whole day there.

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Photo of Mini B.

 

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Mini B.

Phoenix, AZ

5 star rating
4/8/2009

This place is rightfully in Paradise Valley. The 125-acre sprawling resort located on Mummy mountain is a little piece of paradise on Earth. Their customer service is stellar and the suites are grander than anything I have experienced before. It is an experience to just hang around the property. Nothing like playing a game of golf, getting a spa treatment in the lap of luxury and eating a light lunch at 'Sprouts'. Since we all know that luxury comes at a price it is advisable to visit this place on a special occasion or get someone to fund your visit. I've been to Camelback Inn on several occasions for business so in a way it is a "free lunch" for me everytime!

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Elite '09

446

269

Michael L.

Phoenix, AZ

5 star rating
10/14/2008

Many years ago when we were remodeling one of of our homes we stayed at the Camelback Inn for two months. It was a great place then, nice room with a very private large patio and small kitchen set way back in the resort. I loved it.
They have remodeled this resort recently so we decided to go take a look. They were nice enough to take us on a tour and show us a variety of rooms/suites. It has been done very well and geared to complete sensory pleasure. I will be reserving a room here next time my sister is in town just to get a more complete feel for the property. But so far, very nice employees and fantastic grounds.

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Elite '09

61

101

Tracy K.

Phoenix, AZ

5 star rating
7/5/2008

My first trip to the Camelback Inn Spa was a few years ago, but the wonderful experience I had has stayed with me and made me dream of the day when I can go back.  (Soon, I keep telling myself, soon!)

It was my first time EVER to a spa. So, yes, I was a spa virgin. And, let's not kid ourselves, I was kind of nervous. (Who wouldn't be on their first time?!)  I didn't know what to expect.  Was I suppose to take off all my clothes and have complete strangers see me naked? Yikes! But of course, they're professionals. I was just unsure of the protocol. Not to worry. I went with the flow. Something I usually have a hard time doing. But, hey, it was a spa. I was suppose to be relaxing, right?

What made the experience so great were the people. Everyone was very kind, not snooty, as can be the case in some places in the greater Phoenix area (I won't name names). The place was clean, calming and comfortable -- what I like to call the three C's of a great spa experience.

The spa treatment I selected was the Aromatherapy Tea Wrap. It was divine! The aesthetician starts by applying a green tea serum all over your body, and then she wraps you up in warm sheets steamed in fresh herbs. For about thirty minutes your as snug as a bug in a rug. You also get a nice scalp massage followed by a cooling cucumber mask.  After I was unmummified, she slathered a luxurious green tea lotion all over me and sent me off to bask in the glow of my first spa experience. And let me tell you, I felt like I was in heaven! I was the most relaxed I have ever been in my entire life!

The overall experience was magical, to say the least. This place was able to take a tense, slightly neurotic, workaholic and turn her into a ultra-relaxed, go-with-the-flow, euphoric-feeling spa girl. I'll be back, I promise!

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Photo of Kimberly S.

 

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Kimberly S.

Glendale, AZ

4 star rating
7/7/2008

This is an in-between 3 star and 4 star rating so I'll tell you...

Why 4?
Location, location, location.  I could be in a little hut anywhere near Camelback Mountain and feel relaxed and peaceful!  Rooms were impeccable, bedding some of the best I have seen and felt, great downturn service (bedroom slippers, chocolates, soft light, soft music playing and of course the bed down turned).  The whole place is constructed with that great solid brick, therefore you don't hear your neighbors.  Lobby was very warm and inviting (very impressive considering they are going through renovations and had to relocate lobby...can't wait to see what the permanent one is going to be like).  Frozen grapes served by pool concierge while laying out... really hit the spot.  Filtered H20 with fresh lemon slices at your disposal.  AND...they allow you to take your drink into the pool with you, very cool.

Why 3?
When you are really looking forward to eggs benedict in the morning (especially after a night out on the town), and you get them and the yolk is completely SOLID in the center, well...let's just say the great music that was playing in the background of my brain since I arrived  came to a screeching halt, like a needle over an LP (ok, ok, I'm showing my age...).  My husband's Marriott burger was good though and the food was served fairly fast considering it was room service.  Also, the pool is very small and they don't have enough floaters for everyone.  Kind of a first come first serve thing.  

I am anxious to see what is done after their renovations and can't wait to go back which is why I'm giving it a 4 star rating even though there were some disappointments.

ps.. there is no lazy river here at this hotel...never had, never will...other reviewer must be talking about JW DESERT RIDGE...hello..

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Elite '09

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Morgan D.

Scottsdale, AZ

5 star rating
5/6/2008

Everyone knows the spa is great, but what about the pool?

I'm a bit biased because I don't technically have to crash this pool, I have a key.  My family has a home right next to the resort, so I've had the ability to use their pool since I was born.

Personally, I think it's worth it to spring for a spa treatment while your there and take advantage of the adults only pool.  Otherwise, the pools are not much to look at.  The Jackrabbit Pool attracts more kids and poolside service ends at 8pm (sometimes 4pm in the summer), but I believe the pool itself is open 24 hours.  The other pool, the Garden Pool, usually has less kids and also has poolside service.

Basically, this is a valley establishment and that is why I like it.  There are probably more exciting pools to crash, but this is an old standby.  Also, it is currently undergoing renovations.

Update:  I guess you don't need a key anymore- so, feel free to walk in like you own the place:)

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98

Jennifer P.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
3/31/2009

I'm currently staying at Camelback Inn for 3 days. A pleasant treat after a molar extraction last Friday afternoon. Although I've sworn not to be seen in public with a swollen face, I am truly enjoying this trip. There's a trail just behind this resort and a completely awesome view of the hills. Awesome and I mean it.
My hubby is out on his meetings and I'm juggling my work (the luxury of running your own biz, take it anywhere you want do it anytime you want, well not most of the time.. ).
Just had lunch at Hoppins Jack. Excellent service, friendly staff (especially the  handsome young german ;)). Anyway, ordered chicken sandwich with cashews and mandarin orange, delish. My lil' girl was pacified with a vanilla sundae with fruity swirl (raspberry or is it strawberries?) with peaches and berries.. I had a few spoonful, yummy.
Kids menu was dirt cheap, fries and 3 pieces of chicken strips or rather crispy chunks  was actully tasty.
I still have until tomorrow. Maybe if I have time, I'll head down to the spa for a desert rain loofah. Oh, as for the room, great decor, quite spacious and an outdoor porch with umbrella and seat to lounge around in the sun.
Simply love the view. It takes me away from everything. I'm in heavenly desert.Highly recommended.

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Elite '09

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Laura M.

Surprise, AZ

5 star rating
4/6/2008

I have not stayed here but have enjoyed the spa on a couple of occassions. One word...HEAVEN! I loved the quiet room which allows the opportunity to relax and begin to unwind before your service(s). The staff is indeed professional and the experience leaves you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.

Oh gosh, I just love this place and recommend it to anyone who loves spa-ing!

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Nancy J.

Lutherville-Timonium, MD

5 star rating
2/22/2009

This is my favorite spa in the world! Hopefully, I'll make it to others...but if I could only get to the Camelback Inn, I'd be in heaven. Here's the rundown of how I enjoy the place: Early morning appointment for massage - Rose does fantastic hot stone - I like her the best. Then I shower and get into the eucalyptus steam room. Next I head out to the pool and savor the view of Camelback Mountain and the amazing desert landscaping they've procured. I drink some water and as I lounge there, I order a small, healthy and very tasty meal (usually breakfast). I swim a little, lounge a lot - regardless of the time of year.  If I have planned it, I then head back into the showers and clean up for my next treatment. I spend hours there and if I feel like I might be pressed for time, I reschedule.

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Irish G.

Chicago, IL

4 star rating
3/30/2009

This place is beautiful!!! I recently traveled here for a cousins wedding and my immediate reaction was: I'm moving here! The suite was spacious and comfortable with a lovely little porch. The grounds were immaculate and the pools sparkling. The view of the mountains was breathtaking. The staff were fantastic. Funny, friendly and helpful. Yes, I know that's their job, but they did it well. I got to know the staff well almost immediately by having to call the front desk 3 times upon arriving. No, I'm not high maintenance! There was a light bulb out and I got locked out of the mini bar. Don't ask...
Now, I've heard a lot about "the spa" and how wonderful it is. So I thought I'd call to schedule a mani/pedi. I was able to call the evening before to get in the next morning. The next day, when breakfast was taking longer than expected, the staff was more than accommodating to bump my appointment a little bit later. As for the actual mani/pedi, meh, I've had better. Shocking, I know from such an acclaimed spa, but it really wasn't all that great. The woman talked WAY too much, not making it very relaxing. Now, those of you who've read my previous review for a mani/pedi know I don't like a lot of talking. Don't get me wrong, I like a little chatter, but seriously? This woman did not shut up. Anyway, I just smiled and chatted back. Overall, she did an ok job. I just got back to Chicago yesterday and my manicure is already chipping. Not good for an $80 service.
Oh, yeah, did I mention it cost $80 for a manicure/pedicure? Again, don't get me wrong, I understand it's going to cost more at an upscale spa, but come on; $96 after tip.
Where in the world will I find the perfect place for a manicure/pedicure?! ;-)

Anyway, if you are looking a beautiful place to get away to but remain within the contiguous United States, visit Camelback Inn, it is well worth it.
(P.S. the only reason I gave it 4 out of 5 stars was my experience at the spa)

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Percy W.

New York, NY

5 star rating
11/28/2007

5 stars for the spa and 4 stars for the resort.  I like the casitas sprawled throughout the grounds.  We got upgraded to a roomy junior suite.  The decor is totally southwestern but it fits with the environment.  Rooms were clean and had a stereo with ipod dock.  The lobby was relocated due to the construction but the construction was not an issue at all.  We were definitely there doing a slow time over the Thanksgiving weekend so we were able to get parking right in front of our door everytime.  

The jackrabbit pool is nice and it has two whirlpools.  Hoppin Jack's has an all-you-can-eat chili and salsa bar for $5!  Best hotel food deal ever.  Made for a great afternoon snack on two afternoons by the pool.

We got 60 minute native hot stone massages.  The treatment was euphoric.  We stayed all day after our massages to take advantage of all of the amenities including the private pool, indoor whirlpool, steam room, sauna and solarium.  You receive a free day pass for the spa with any spa service.  I have never experienced relaxation like I did at The Spa at Camelback.

The Camelback's location is central to everything that we ended up doing - about 15-25 minutes to anything.  I originally had us staying at the Desert Ridge which would have been way too out of the way, probably adding an extra 20 minutes to any trip.  I recommend the resort and highly recommend the spa.

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Steve W.

Andover, MN

5 star rating
8/1/2007

My rating is more for the spa than the actual hotel.  Don't get me wrong, the hotel is great (especially since they updated), but the spa is just out of this world.  I live in MN now and there is just nothing that compares to the Camelback Spa anywhere up here (or anywhere else I've been).

I've been to spas with my wife in Cabo and Laguna Niguel (Ritz) and neither compared to the opulence of this place.  It is a true, all encompassing retreat.  If you don't leave here relaxed there is something really wrong with you! :-)

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jasmine p.

Chicago, IL

4 star rating
12/5/2006

If you want a semi-real taste of Arizona, stay here.  They preserve some of the wildlife native to Arizona.  My boyfriend and I visited Arizona last Memorial Day.  We were able to see the desert in bloom just outside of our suite!  It gets pretty dark at night.  I did not try any of the spa services, so I cannot speak for those.  But the staff was pretty nice.  

The putting green is free and a good place to kill some time (if it's not too hot).  There is ample parking, but I wish there was a quicker way (i.e. more shortcuts) to get to the jackrabbit pool.  It was pretty hot on the day that I went to the pool, yet my boyfriend and I ended up walking pretty far from our room to the pool.

Our room was very spacious with a comfy king sized bed, lots of space in the bathroom, and a microwave and fridge.  Nearly every room had a patio area.

Camelback Inn was also close to Camelback Mountain which is great for early morning hikes.  Overall, I enjoyed my stay at Camelback Inn.  It was a great way to appreciate the desert yet feel relaxed.  But it is not as luxurious as the Hilton or the Ritz (or Sanctuary).

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Marina M.

San Mateo, CA

4 star rating
8/15/2008

My sisters and I went to the Phoenix/Scottsdale area just to relax and have spa services.  We chose to have facials at the Camelback Inn Spa because they had lots of choices for these services.  
Everyone at the spa was very friendly and helpful.  The facials were relaxing and our skin glowed afterward.  
However, at this spa, the actual facial was the tip of the iceberg.  It really is about the whole experience.  We loved the cold tea and water, we loved the lounge, and the solarium.  We went in the steam room, not our favorite part, but it felt very therapeutic.  We didn't feel like we needed to hit the sauna, what with the 108 degrees outside.  
The pool and the restaurant was absolutely the best part.  I loved the mini-fountains in the pool.  Our poolside server (Stephanie, I think maybe) was patient and friendly and extremely helpful.  My sister left her ipod by the pool, but we were able to call about an hour later and she got it back!
The main reason this spa doesn't get 5 stars is because of the robes and slippers.  The robes were not very luxurious, felt a little threadbare, and were pretty plain.  And the spa shoes were supposed to be massage-y, but our feet actually kinda hurt afterward.
Overall, definitely worth a visit!  If I ever have reason to be in the area again, I will go to this spa.

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Perry B.

Phoenix, AZ

4 star rating
12/1/2008

OK, so my cousin is the drummer for the band Pheed and they play here a few nights a week,  so I have been there to watch them play, I also have had a few business meeting here. The atmosphere is amazing with outdoor fire pit to cozy up to with some cold drinks, and the service is impeccable, the food is decent, and even though everything is quite pricey I think it is worth the trip, I wouldn't expect anything less form a top notch resort. They have a Starbucks right there so if you need the caffeine you got it on hand. They have valet, and the ambiance is very good, kind of rugged. Very nice.

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SnapdragonI g.

Chicago, IL

5 star rating
12/14/2008

I love what Marriott does...camelback was great.  Bed was comfy, room was huge, amenities are great.  Did not do the entire spa thing, so cannot comment on that...would love to be able to stay here again.  Liked the little adobe style of the rooms and the campus / grounds type arrangements.  After reading the reviews I understand why I did not feel comfortable with the pool as the night I went out to use it I also encountered some dude with a tripod and no one else but a guy floating in the lanes.   They were probably sneak ins too.  Needless to say I did feel comfortable swimming.

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Nancy P.

Concord, CA

4 star rating
6/3/2008

I think inside is beautiful....under construction so really no grand lobby to escape to...the casista's kinda annoyed me...it was hot so aside from the pool...you go to your room or the pool....we ate mostly poolside and room service for breakfast....ahhhh....wonderful food...wonderful drinks...I can't quite pinpoint what exactly disappointed me...I was not happy with my spa treatment...but my  friend  really enjoyed hers.

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Elite '09

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deb n.

Palo Alto, CA

4 star rating
7/14/2006

Was here for a dance convention over the 4th of July weekend.  So you say, what the heck are you doing in Phoenix, Arizona in July...well, that is how we can afford a 4 star hotel, $300 a night casita for $95 a night.  
Love the casitas, have a microwave and fridge in the room, AC works great and plenty of room to entertain friends, we would have 3-6 people visit us and there was still plenty of space, our room was the gossip salon.
The spa was nice and of course pricey and Sprouts the restuarant was healthy but good, I had the fruit platter with blueberries, black berries, raspberries, pineapple, cantaloupe, honeydew, grapes and a cored out apple with strawberry yogurt.  Also ordered the hummus with freshly made crackers.  One friend had the chicken ceasar salad with a side of crab cakes, yummy and another friend had the squash soup, loved it, not too much cumin. http://www.yelp.com/bi...
Had the dinner buffet Sunday night at the Navajo, I thought reasonable at $30 for the Camelback, the braised sea scallops were done well, loved of all things, the macaroni and cheese, prime rib was rare, like I liked it and the desserts covered 4 tables, everything was fingerling sized and my fave was the creme brulee with carmelized sugar.  http://www.yelp.com/bi...
There are three swimming pools, the Jackrabbit is the largest but during the heat of the day, the water was too warm, I would go in at 3am at night and it was perfect. Tons of pool floaties to use and even clean towels at 3am.
Little cry outs Jutney boys/bellmen would take forever to pick you up
to drive you around the property, you need it since the heat breaks the 100's and the property is spread out across quite a bit of acreage, walking outside with no shade...not attractive arriving at the ballroom to compete with sweatstains under your arms and sweat dripping down your face and your hair frizzed out.
Official check in time is at 4pm, I arrived at 12 noon and they wouldn't let me check in early and said they would call me on my cell when my room was ready, I had to call them.
You need a car, there is no grocery store or other eateries within walking distance other then the onsite restuarants.
Next year will be staying at the Biltmore, AZ.  The pools are amazing, 5 and some are interconnected with a 95 ft waterslide.  The girls and I are going to rent a cabana over the weekend, at $400 a day, we are going to live in it and run the cabana boys....ragged!  Will report next year on the Biltmore.

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Elite '09

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Joolz M.

Brooklyn, NY

5 star rating
2/21/2008

Not that I am in a position to treat myself to the Spa here at the moment (or ever, really) but as I am sort of from the Phoenix area (I did graduate H.S. there after all) I do know a thing or two about the town. And let me tell you..this is the BEST spa experience I've ever had.  Beautiful setting, totally serene environment..completely professional staff.  Boy do I wish I were there right this very second...

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Kristin P.

Chicago, IL

4 star rating
3/20/2007

Well, it is actually on Mummy Mountain, not Camelback, just a minor clarification . . . And the desert landscaping is beautiful.  I love that the resort management realizes that AZ is indeed a desert and has landscaped accordingly!
Anyway - I grew up down the street from this place, and I consider it a relaxing daytime getaway.  My mom and I spent the day here today, and I am oh so relaxed - and I feel spoiled, but in a good way.
Definitely get to the spa early and work out in the gym - it is a nice gym, and you won't feel so guilty for being pampered later.  
Remember your bathing suit!  They have a great pool area to relax in, and I somehow manage to forget my bathing suit 70% of the time.
Everyone here offers you water - drink it!  Not only are you in the desert, but massages can be intense for your body, seriously, drink extra water.
Try the signature facial - it is pricey ($145) but you get a facial PLUS a hot stone massage for your arms and legs while the goop on your face is sinking in - so it is a facial and a massage in one.  It is by far my favorite treatment here - I think I caught myself snoring at one point.  Plus, my skin looks *amazing* - all dewy and pretty.
The hot stone body massage is also fantastic - the full version of the hot stone treatment.  Pure bliss, again, I always fall asleep for this one.  Warm, smooth river stones just about everywhere?  Sign me up!
I had the Swedish massage today - I needed it because my shoulders and back have been sore lately, so I really enjoyed it.  My mom much preferred her hot stone treatment, and says she will not get another Swedish massage.  
All in all, if you have some deep muscle issues, go Swedish, otherwise, go hot stone.
We also had manicures and pedicures - fantastic!  My feet are so pretty!
Beware, the cafe closes at 3 pm, so if your treatment is ending after that, you will be grouchy and hungry (ahem, like me).  Try some of the tasty spa food before 3 pm - you will be glad!
Is it expensive?  Absolutely.  Is it worth it?  If you are someone who enjoys being pampered and feeling like royalty for a day, absolutely.
And boys, if you have a lady in your life, put down the blender/coffee maker/vacuum cleaner you were planning on getting her for a gift and splurge on a spa day gift certificate.  She will definitely give you the benefit of her newly discovered massage techniques later on!
Minus one star for the giant disappointment of no food after 3pm without any sort of warning.

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Abby F.

San Diego, CA

5 star rating
10/9/2005

Camelback Inn's Spa is quite possibly the finest, most luxurious spa I've ever visited.  It's set up in the desert oasis of Camelback Mountain.  Delicious body, facial, and massage treatments are only a short drive from central Phoenix.  Be prepared to pay for your luxury, though.  Along with your spa treatment, you have access to their workout facilities, gorgeous Olympic lap-pool, jacuzzis, and steamrooms.  If you're visiting Phoenix, especially in the summer, this place is a perfect getaway from the heat of the city to the soothing and calming environment of Camelback Mountain.

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Elite '09

66

163

Madhu D.

Kensington, CA

4 star rating
11/27/2007 4 photos

any hotel that has a pool & a lazy river with a jamaican employee handling the inner tubes is top notch. the morning sunday brunch had an omelette station, plenty of fruit & great chicken & jalepeno sausages. the staff was beyond friendly from the valet to the bell boys. the kitchen staff makes some of the best food around- including their indian food & desserts (i wanted to make love to their mini chocolate cakes). it is a very gorgeous location & piece of property with great pillows & couches that help relax after a long wedding.

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B H.

Lafayette, CA

3 star rating
11/17/2007

The location, nestled between Mummy Mountain and Camelback Mountain, is exceptional, especially for a getaway.  The property itself, rooms and facilities, are upscale but dated.  The rooms are large and feature nice ammenities.  The restaurants were so-so, the food was average and sometimes the service was hit-and-miss.

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andrea r.

Tempe, AZ

4 star rating
10/25/2007

I have been to the spa on multiple occasions and have to say I think its my favorite in phx area. I was just back again for a facial - I tried the perricone's antiaging facial this time and it was to die for! so relaxing, and I definitely had a glow. Try to go when you can stay and enjoy the amenities, as the whole set up is super nice. They did a renovation a couple of years ago, which it really needed, and it's a great get away. I haven't stayed at the resort, but would hit the spa anytime!

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Faith H.

Sun City, AZ

5 star rating
8/24/2007

The Spa is PHENOMENAL!  The ambiance is breathtaking and the services are indulgent! If you haven't been to the Camelback Spa...GO! It's pricey but SO worth it!

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