Spa Review: We Tried an Artisan Massage at The Phoenician Spa
The Phoenician Spa at The Phoenician, A Luxury Collection Resort in Scottsdale.
The Phoenician Spa was awarded the Forbes Five Star Award in 2020.
Earlier this year, I had the pleasure of visiting The Phoenician, A Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale in Arizona. The Phoenician Spa, which was recently awarded the Forbes Five Star Award in 2020, definitely lived up to its expectations. When my husband asked if I wanted to join him on his work trip, I couldn’t say “yes” fast enough!
The Legend of the Phoenix is one of an iconic creature who rises from its ashes, stronger and more beautiful than before. Guests are invited to the spa to be renewed and transformed by their experience, much like the mythical Phoenix.
The entrance to the Spa.
Spa Profile: The Phoenician Spa
Here’s what you’ll love about The Phoenician Spa:
Overlooking the breathtaking Camelback Mountain, The Phoenician Spa features over 40,000 square-feet of majestic views and is the epitome of relaxation.
The Spa is home to a variety of unique amenities, including a nail lounge, fitness center, and vitality pools.
Whether your goal is to partake in unique group fitness classes (including aerial yoga), or one of their many unique services (try the Gem Stone Healing Facial), there is something for everyone.
Upon entering the Spa, you are immediately transported to a world of serenity and tranquility. The ground level features the fitness center and boutique, where you can purchase fitness apparel, skin care, and a variety of unique gifts and jewelry.
There is also a Dry Bar, where you can schedule an appointment for a blow-out after your spa treatments for a night on the town.
The Spa’s retail boutique carries a variety of skin care, wellness and beauty products—including The Phoenician Spa’s signature line.
Prior to your treatment, you can create your own intention and setting your purpose in stone.
I checked in at the front desk and was taken back to the women’s locker room. There is a separate locker room for the men. After changing into the world’s most comfortable robe, I was served infused water, tea and granola as refreshments and light snacks.
The locker room featured showers, saunas, a steam room, and a vitality hot tub. I was encouraged to partake in the preparatory hot-and-cold hydrotherapy, then spent a few minutes of quiet time in the pre-treatment lounge. The hydrotherapy experience consisted of the following:
*Up to a 10-minute rest prior to the treatment
5-minute sauna
5-minute steam
30-second cold shower
5-minute rest
10-minute vitality hot tub
30-second cool shower
The waiting area.
The locker room.
I was then led to the treatment room for my massage, which did not disappoint. Today I was going to experience the 50-minute Artisan Massage featuring aromatherapy and Sedona Body Bliss products. The service was tailored to my specific needs for pain relief, tension release and relaxation.
The therapist was courteous and genuinely interested in ensuring I had the best experience possible. We discussed specific problem areas, my pressure comfort level, and my preferred scents. The scent I chose as part of the massage—Phoenix Rising—was a combination of amber, clove, lemon, frankincense, and rose.
The elegantly designed staircase.
One of the Spa’s treatment rooms.
After the massage, I was encouraged to take my time and utilize the showers and vanity areas. I was also encouraged to partake in poolside appetizers, food, and cocktails at the restaurant Kalio Kabobery. That day the weather was on the cooler side, so we opted to have lunch at a restaurant inside the resort, The Phoenician Tavern. Burgers and craft beer seemed like the perfect way to end a perfect morning. The overall experience was unparalleled and unlike any other spa I’ve visited—I would go back weekly if I could!
The post-treatment lounge.
Spa guests also enjoy access to the rooftop pool.
Insider Tips:
If you’re staying for the weekend, it’s definitely worth it to stay at the resort. The rooms are spacious, beautiful, and immaculate.
All spa amenities are available to Phoenician resort guests for an additional fee. Complimentary access is granted when receiving a spa treatment of 50-minutes or more, and includes scheduled fitness classes.
Take advantage of the amenities as much as possible, and arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment to partake in the sauna and steam room.
Don’t forget to bring a swimsuit so you can swim or lounge by the pool after your treatments.
Hours: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Mon-Sun) *First appointments start at 9 a.m.
Phone: 480-423-2452
Address: 6000 E. Camelback Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85251
For more information and to book a treatment, visit the website and follow them on Instagram: @phoenicianscottsdale @thephoenicianspa
[Photos by Tara KP Troszak; select images courtesy of The Phoenician Spa]
Tara KP Troszak is an LA-based lawyer, self-proclaimed cat lady, writer and freelance makeup artist for MAC cosmetics. She lives in the San Fernando Valley with her husband Nick and her cat Chevy. Follow her on Instagram: @makeupbytkp.