Jun 4 2007
A Weekend to Unwind – Marriott Starr Pass Resort in Tucson, ArizonaStarr Pass Resort, set in the beautiful Saguaro forest high above Tucson, was opened in 2005. We had the pleasure of a weekend at the resort just as the weather was turning hot in the valley below. With off season packages enticing visitors to this hillside desert retreat, the resort was busy with couples out for a getaway weekend, families taking advantage of the pools, and golfers heading out for cool, early morning rounds of golf.
The Relaxation Process Begins Before You Arrive
Imagine driving a winding road surrounded by a beautiful desert landscape. As you leave the city below, the resort appears ahead of you. High above Tucson, rising from the hills like an ancient pueblo village, is the stunning Starr Pass Resort. Nestled in the rolling hills of the Saguaro forest are the challenging golf courses and resort pools. Take a deep breath. This is your retreat for a weekend or for a vacation.
Starr Pass has done a beautiful job of integrating the building design into the natural landscape. Arroyos, washes and cacti disturbed during construction, have been carefully replaced to maintain the natural balance and water flow of the area. Lobby and public areas of the resort take advantage of the hillside location with huge floor to ceiling windows and decks for outdoor dining. It is the magic of nature, understood well by the ancient inhabitants of the area, that makes Starr Pass exceptional. The six story resort is designed to be compatible with the natural beauty of the area. It is this beauty which is the foundation of the Starr Pass experience.
The Relaxation Experience
Starr Pass, has done much to help you with your goal of refreshing your body and renewing your spirit. As guests arrive, one of the first things they see after a glass of the ever-present ice water and iced tea in the lobby, is the view from the main building. When you see the view of the desert mountains and the city of Tucson below, you soon realize that you are in a special place. Elegant staircases lead to the main floor and out the door to the immense patio with inviting overstuffed furniture placed around kiva fireplaces and gas firepits. In the distance the pool beckons.
Many head to their rooms to don their swimsuits and head directly for a dip in the pool. Others settle into the comfortable lobby or patio furniture and succumb to the view and, perhaps, savor one of the resort’s signature margaritas.
Once you get your bearings and begin relaxing, it’s time to plan your stay. Visit the Conceirge desk and find out what’s available. You can make a spa appointment, dinner reservation or, if activity is what really relaxes you, learn about hiking, desert biking or a trip to the nearby Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. One evening while sitting around the firepit, we heard two men proudly telling tales about their mountain biking experience. Others opted for an afternoon at the pool followed by an elegant dinner at Primo Restaurant. The choices are many.
