Miraval

Just north of Tucson, Arizona, tucked away in a valley west of the Santa Catalina Mountains.destination spaThis destination spa in the Arizona desert has won fans like Oprah Winfrey with its emphasis on challenging yourself and personal growth. Programs like "The Equine Experience," where you work with a horse under the supervision of a social worker/cowboy, give you insight into how you approach tasks -- and life. Some people love this so much they overlook the lack of luxurious rooms. No one is spending much time there, anyway.Miraval has 102 casually casita-style rooms (most with private patios) on 400 acres, including the desert surroundings. The rooms are large and comfortable but simply appointed. fairly simple -- like comfortable, upscale room sizes and features. Rates start at $615 a night (double occupancy) and include all meals and activities and one spa treatment. No minimum number of nights.The spa itself is nice but modest, rather like the rooms. The guest rates include one service per day, and you can choose from more than 100 spa treatments, including Ayurvedic treatments, acupuncture, Shiatsu, Jin Shin Jyutsu and Trager. It also has a full-service salon. The locker rooms include steam, dry sauna and private whirlpools.Swimming pools, includin a tri-level pool with cascading waterfalls, acupressure stone walk and whirlpool; fitness center; horseback riding stables; two tennis courts; volleyball court and croquet lawn; whirlpools and saunas; zen and desert gardens. Golf is available 20 minutes away at The Golf Club at Vistoso.There's a full schedule of activities here including The Equine Experience, trail riding, nature programs,yoga, meditiaton, nutrition classes, postural alignment, photography walks and star gazing. "Challenge activities" that get you outside your comfort zone include night climbing and the quantum leap. Occasionally there are special workshops on enhancing lovemaking and sexuality.5000 East Via Estancia Miraval, Catalina, AZ, 85739
Phone: 800-232-3969
Website: www.miravalresorts.com