Phoenix hotels

Venture to the Northeast Valley of Greater Phoenix to Scottsdale – just a 20-minute drive from the heart of Phoenix. Discover cowboy chic and western style in the Old Town, packed with stylish saloons and galleries with fascinating Native American art. Looking for a leisurely time? There is an abundance of immaculate golf courses, serene spas and designer shops, as well as delicious dining options and local musicians jamming in bars. For a five-star family-friendly retreat, stay at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa; it has outstanding resort pools, a Championship  golf course and spa sanctuary.

Thinking of a road trip across Arizona? Start in Phoenix. Explore the thriving capital and epic desert landscape. From the colourful art scene downtown to the outdoor oasis of Papago Park – there’s something for everyone in Phoenix. When you’re ready to stretch your legs, get out to hike the trails of Camelback Mountain, visit the Desert Botanical Garden and catch a glowing sunset from South Mountain Park. Book a stay at the four-star Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak, perfect for families, with a splash-worthy water park in a sensational setting.

Make the most of Mesa, an outdoor playground in the Southeast Valley. Just a half-hour drive from Phoenix, Mesa is home to three lakes and two rivers – an ideal place to visit in the desert heat of Arizona. If you want to dive in, there are a variety of watersports: paddle boarding, kayaking and tubing – just take your pick. Alternatively, stay on dry land with a Wild West experience or discover the Apache Trail alongside rugged mountain and canyon speckled scenery. Stay at the great value, three-star Residence Inn Phoenix Mesa with its simple rooms, heated outdoor pool and outside patio area with fire pits and fairy lights.

A couple of hours drive north of Phoenix is Sedona, a cooler area of forested valleys and rocky formations. Discover Sedona’s ‘Secret 7’ attractions – biking, hiking, picnics, spiritualism, arts and culture, vistas and stargazing. Nature experiences top the list. Relish adventurous trails throughout Coconino National Forest; Red Rock Country has over 300 miles of trails. If you’re a thrill-seeker, there are opportunities for bouldering or let go and practice yoga outdoors. Enjoy local wine tasting in the evening, before catching a sunset over Cathedral Rock. Book a break at the four-star Bell Rock Inn by Diamond Resorts for its brilliant location.

You can’t visit Arizona without a trip to the Grand Canyon National Park. Discover one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Hire a car from Phoenix and make the three and a half hour scenic drive north. Soak up the sweeping views of the deep gorge, carved by the Colorado River, and the dusty red rocked landscape. For an unforgettable way to see this natural phenomenon, take to the skies on a Grand Canyon helicopter tour. Book a stay at the family-friendly, three-star Yavapai Lodge for a couple of nights – it sits on a prime location near the Grand Canyon south rim.

If you’re looking for a destination brimming with energy, the American college town of Tucson is just a two and a half hour drive south west from Phoenix. Explore the quirky art stalls, vintage shops, thriving bars and independent foodie hubs (Mexican bites are exceptional here) along 4th Avenue. Savour the seamless blend of Native American, Mexican, Spanish and Anglo throughout the town, from its influence, culture and architecture, before venturing to hike, bike or ride the nearby mountain trails. For something special, spend an evening stargazing in the Saguaro Desert. Stay at the luxurious JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa, an oasis with golf, hiking trails and lazy river on your doorstep.