The spectacular Alvadora Spa at the Royal Palms Resort celebrates the Mediterranean atmosphere of the historical resort known for its romantic air and lush, private grounds. Open-air walkways lined with oleander, bougainvillea and hibiscus invite spa guests to revel in the relaxing and healing benefits of indigenous herbs and vegetation. Custom designed to match the intimate feel of the hotel, the two-level spa is a harmonious blend of authentic hand-made Mexican tiles, natural stone, aged timbers, custom furnishings, hues of terra cottas and mustards, private gardens, fountains and fireplaces. Each decorated with individual color palettes; the seven treatment rooms have a private balcony or patio. For a romantic treatment for two, don't miss the signature Acqua Dolce Villa room where rock walls and two heated tables are each equipped with custom showerheads overhead. Or for a unique pedicure experience, lounge in the custom-made pedi-couch where your toes will be adorned in an aged-bronzed bowl. Alvadora offers a truly intimate experience where guests will feel transported to a Mediterranean sanctuary. For long distance reservations, call 800-672-6011.

Amenities: boutique, lockers, sauna, whirlpool,a garden tub room and rain shower, an 8-foot grotto waterfall shower and garden, an indoor-outdoor shower and bath for two, and a private garden and fountain, each with two treatment tables, fitness center, four pavilion rooms with private balconies or gardens and fountains, full-service salon, lockers, lounging pool with cabanas, private watsu pool, sauna, the acqua dolce room with two heated stone treatment tables under vichy showers, two villa rooms, whirlpool, with a moroccan ambiance, boutique

Other Services: hydrotherapy, watsu, reflexology, stone massage, pregnancy massage, fitness classes, personal training

Products: Kerstin Florian, Somme Institute, Omorovicza, Body Bliss

Rates: $$$$ ($ Inexpensive, $$ Moderate, $$$ Pricey, $$$$ Ultra Pricey)

Hours: Spa treatments: Daily 8am to 7:15pm
Salon: Daily 9am to 6pm
Fitness center and pool open 24 hours daily

What's Nearby: The spa is located on the grounds of the Royal Palms Resort, a Spanish Mediterranean Estate par excellence. Its 119 guestroom, casitas and villas serve as an oasis for guests seeking tranquility and solitude amidst a truly remarkable setting. Conveniently located between the prestigious Biltmore area and historical downtown Scottsdale, Royal Palms is ideal for business and leisure travelers as well as locals looking for a romantic night out. Alvadora Spa is a Mobil Four Star Spa and ranked by Luxury Spa Finder as one of the ýTop ten most romantic spas.ý Royal Palms is one of the few resorts to have a Director of Romance on staff. Don't miss the gorgeous new book, Desert Dream, Desert Romance, available in the boutique, which illustrates the resort's rich history including recipes from their award-winning restaurant, T.Cook's.

Insider Tips: Call about local packages.