Manicured greens form oases in Arizona's desert

By Russ Pate

May 07, 2000

NEW YORK -- Few stateside golf destinations can equal, much less surpass, the visual appeal of Arizona.

Traveling golfers revel in the vivid contrast between the green hues of the manicured golf courses and the brownish tones of the surrounding Sonoran desert.

Toss spectacular sunrises and sunsets into the artistic mix, and it's small wonder that many of golf's top architects have chosen to leave their brush strokes on this rich, vast canvas.

Arizona gives agents a year-round window for selling golf vacations.

Only during the summer months in the Valley of the Sun -- when the mercury routinely reaches triple digits -- does demand for tee times slow somewhat. Even then, agents will find attractive values for their budget-conscious clients.

Agents booking Arizona can select from among this short list of standouts:

The Boulders, Carefree. As its name implies, the resort's tremendous rock outcroppings add a unique visual appeal. Course designer Jay Morrish has created the epitome of the desert golf experience here.

Hyatt Gainey Ranch, Scottsdale. The property features 27 holes of enjoyable, if not backbreaking, golf. A children's program makes Gainey Ranch a good vacation site for families.

Doubletree Sedona Resort, Sedona. One look at those red mountains and you'll know why traveling golfers are prone to exclaim "Sedona Rocks."

The Lodge at Ventana Canyon, Tucson. The dramatic and stunning Mountain Course, designed by Tom Fazio, is one of the best in the West.

The Wigwam, Litchfield Park. This 54-hole gem, featuring Robert Trent Jones Sr.'s acclaimed Gold Course, is located 30 minutes west of downtown Phoenix.

Loews Ventana Canyon Resort, Tucson. Another of the Tucson area's treasures, Ventana Canyon offers more spectacular Tom Fazio golf.

Marriott Camelback Inn, Scottsdale. In addition to its golf, recently upgraded by architect Arthur Hills, Camelback offers a world-class spa.

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, Scottsdale. The TPC course, which hosts the PGA Tour's annual Phoenix Open, is one of the real gems of desert golf.

The Phoenician, Scottsdale. This acclaimed property represents resort luxury with a capital L. Golf consists of 27 beautifully landscaped holes.

Arizona Office of Tourism

Phone: (800) 227-1973

Web: www.arizonaguide.com

Places where the grass is greenest

NEW YORK -- Following is a sampling of "blue chip" golf resorts and golf properties in Hawaii and Arizona.

Blue Chips

American Club: (800) 344-2838
www.americanclub.com

Barton Creek: (800) 336-6158
www.bartoncreek.com