Four Seasons Scottsdale Loses Top Spot to Westin

Where: 10600 East Crescent Moon Drive [map], Scottsdale, AZ, United States, 85255

1/04/2008 at 1:05 PM
Tags: Scottsdale Hotels, Four Seasons Hotels

Just the other week, the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale was #1 according to the TripAdvisor rankings for Scottsdale. But something must have happened over the holidays as it got beat out by the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa.

Nevertheless, expectations are always high at a Four Seasons, and the FS Scottsdale doesn't disappoint. According to TripAdvisor, it's now the #2 place to stay in the city. Although, technically, it's not in the city. The resort lies nestled high in the foothills of the Sonoran Desert, 20 miles from Downtown Scottsdale.

And for many, the hotel's location is one of its major draws, even beating out its Westin competitor:

The seclusion and true desert sense of being up in the foothills away from the city is what makes this resort special. How many other resorts have their own hiking path that leads up to a peak in which you can hike and see the surrounding valley? The last time I checked, all the Westin Kierland offers is a view of the Crate and Barrel across the street.

But the location can be a bit of a bummer if you're not the type who can entertain themselves at the pool all day or with the nearby golf options so we personally recommend renting a car.

As for lodgings, the hotel is set up as 25 clusters of individual casita-style cottages, each with private terraces or balconies to take in the desert views. It also offers a myriad of tempting amenities and impeccable service.

And although some travelers have knocked the resort of late for its ongoing renovation project, others found an upside to the construction:

I have to say it was even BETTER than what we had experienced last year. Because of the renovations, the staff was even more solicitous and attentive than on our previous visit which I never thought possible.

Rates for a standard room start at $475 through Jan. 17th when they increase substantially, until the heat brings them down again.

Have you stayed at either the Four Seasons Scottsdale or the Westin Kierland? Let us know which one is best.

[Photo: TequilaMike]