The Perfect Getaway: A wellness weekend in Scottsdale
Escape to Scottsdale, Arizona with a long weekend itinerary of desert spa rituals, sunrise hikes, mindful meals, and restorative routines.
Edited by Kaitlyn Dreyling | November 7, 2025
Scottsdale’s sun-warmed desert landscape and vibrant spa culture make it a natural choice for travelers seeking a restorative escape. Here, wellness is woven into daily life, from gentle sunrise hikes along cacti-lined trails to spa rituals inspired by the Sonoran Desert. Spring and fall typically offer the most comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities in Scottsdale, making these seasons ideal for a wellness-focused trip. Planning a heat-smart itinerary is key, with outdoor movement scheduled for early mornings and evenings, and midday reserved for recovery. Staying at The Scottsdale Resort & Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton means you can move seamlessly between trail time, poolside relaxation, and nourishing meals, with minimal travel between Scottsdale’s top wellness experiences. This four-day guide balances movement, spa time, healthy dining, and restorative routines, so you leave Scottsdale feeling truly renewed.
Friday
Morning
Arrive in Scottsdale and check in at The Scottsdale Resort & Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton, where the desert’s calming energy greets you at every turn. Start your wellness weekend with a health-conscious morning snack at the on-site café, Barnaby’s, or enjoy a slow walk through the resort’s lush grounds. Sip water infused with citrus and herbs to help you acclimate to the climate and time zone.
Afternoon
After settling in, take a restorative dip in the outdoor pool, letting the warmth of the sun and cool water ease travel tension. If you’re eager to explore, stroll nearby Old Town’s art galleries and boutiques, keeping movement light and timing outdoor activity for late afternoon when temperatures begin to drop.
Evening
Dine at La Fogata, the resort’s signature restaurant, where locally sourced ingredients and Southwest flavors set the tone for a nourishing evening meal. Choose lighter dishes, such as wood-fire grilled vegetables and chicken skewers or branzino, paired with herbal mocktails or non-alcoholic wine. Wind down with a calming meditation in your guest room before an early night’s sleep.
Saturday
Morning
Start your day before sunrise with a grab-and-go breakfast at the resort to fuel a gentle hike at the McDowell Sonoran Preserve Gateway Trailhead. Enjoy cooler temperatures and golden light on the inviting Bajada Nature Trail, Horseshoe Trail, and Desert Parks Trail — accessible options for all fitness levels. Always check trail hours and bring water, as the preserve is open sunrise to sunset and summer heat can arrive quickly.
Afternoon
Return to the resort for a midday spa ritual at Luna Spa. Book a signature massage to ease tension or try a facial designed to brighten skin and restore balance. For lunch, choose a vibrant salad,grilled chicken sandwich, or cauliflower tacos at La Fogata, focusing on hydration and fresh ingredients. If the heat is excessive, swap outdoor plans for mindful movement in the fitness center or check the resort calendar for complimentary yoga classes or guided breathwork sessions.
Evening
As the sun sets, head to Old Town to stroll the tree-lined streets and savor a nourishing dinner at The Mission, featuring fresh tableside guacamole. Return to the resort to relax on the patio, soaking in the desert colors and evening breeze. Wind down with a gentle stretch or meditation, reinforcing the day’s sense of renewal.
Sunday
Morning
Begin your day with a guided nature walk at Pinnacle Peak Park, a less than 30-minute drive north, known for its scenic out-and-back trail and panoramic desert views. The main trail is approximately two miles one way, making it suitable for a range of abilities. If temperatures are high, opt to explore a local museum for a culture-rich alternative — Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West or the interactive art installations at The Wonderspaces Arizona are great options.
Afternoon
Back at the hotel, experience contrast therapy by alternating between the hot tub and refreshing cold plunge in the spa’s outdoor Zen garden. Or reserve a court for a complimentary game of pickleball. Refuel and relax with a mindful meal poolside, followed by a swim in the Serenity Pool.
Evening
To close out your day, try a sound bath or full moon meditation session, take a sunset stroll through the resort’s gardens, or enjoy live music at La Fogata or The Madam speakeasy for a balanced approach to your wellness weekend.
Monday
Morning
Start your final day with gentle movement, such as a mat Pilates class on the resort’s lawn or a mindful walk through the gardens. Focus on breath, stretching, and connecting with the desert’s tranquil energy. Scottsdale also offers a variety of classes at local studios, such as ESenEM Yoga Scottsdale or Workshop Pilates, if you’re interested in exploring the city’s wellness scene.
Afternoon
Enjoy a healthy brunch at La Fogata, featuring açai bowls, vegetable-packed egg white frittatas, avocado toast, seasonal fruits, and fresh juices. Afterward, take a farewell soak in the pool or hot tub, savoring the last moments of your wellness retreat at The Scottsdale Resort & Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton.
Until next time!
Pack at a relaxed pace, reflecting on the weekend’s restorative routines. Consider bringing home a new wellness ritual, like daily stretching or herbal hydration to keep your reset going, one mindful moment at a time. By integrating these little habits, you'll carry the peace and restoration of this trip with you until your next visit!
Disclaimer: We used AI assistance to generate this content. All information was reviewed by Hilton's team to ensure it meets our standards for accuracy and ethics, allowing us to better match your travel needs and connect you with the right stay.
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