The Vibe
Inviting. The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess strikes a rare balance between polished luxury and relaxed desert ease. Spread across 65 acres of lagoons, palms and Sonoran landscaping, the resort feels expansive without being overwhelming. It’s refined but not fussy, social without being loud — the kind of place where guests can be as active or as unplugged as they want.
One of my first impressions happened in the lobby, where Bigsby and Nash, the resort’s beloved canine ambassadors, greet arriving guests. Calm, friendly and clearly part of the family, they offer an immediate sense of warmth — especially for travelers arriving with children or after a long journey.
I visited in early December during the resort’s annual Christmas at the Princess celebration, when more than 16 million lights transform the property into a festive desert wonderland. Fire tables glow after dark, igloos dot the grounds and a towering Ferris wheel rises against the night sky. Even with the seasonal buzz, the resort never lost its sense of calm.
How I Felt
Restored. From check-in onward, everything felt effortless. Staff were warm, anticipatory and genuinely engaged, which immediately set the tone. Whether wandering the illuminated grounds at night or starting the day with coffee on my patio, the experience felt indulgent yet grounded. It’s the kind of resort that encourages you to slow down without ever feeling bored.
The Digs
The resort offers 750 guest rooms and suites, including the exclusive Privado Villas enclave, which features residential-style accommodations with private pools, fireplaces and dedicated concierge service. My room blended Southwestern design with modern comfort — warm desert tones, thoughtful artwork and a spacious bathroom stocked with luxe bath products.
What stood out most was how the design lets the surrounding landscape shine. Every room has a patio or balcony, and views range from lagoons and pools to the adjacent TPC Stadium Course. It felt elegant without trying too hard.
The Agenda
It’s easy to spend entire days on the property. The Princess boasts six outdoor pools, each with a distinct personality. Families gravitate toward the Sonoran Splash pool with its twisting waterslides and zero-entry deck, while adults seeking serenity slip away to the rooftop spa pool.
The newly renovated Princess Pool overlooks lagoons and the famed TPC Stadium Course. Sunset Beach — Arizona’s only resort beach escape — surprises with 9,000 square feet of white sand, palm trees and a sprawling pool complex. Golfers can walk or shuttle to TPC Scottsdale, while spa devotees will find bliss at the renowned Well & Being Spa, home to Arizona’s only Sisley-Paris spa-within-a-spa.
The Eats
Dining is a major strength. Bourbon Steak, by Michael Mina, delivers a classic steakhouse experience with premium cuts, pristine seafood and an award-winning wine list. La Hacienda elevates Mexican cuisine with refined flavors, dramatic fireplaces and a star-lit patio.
Toro, Richard Sandoval’s Pan-Latin concept overlooking the golf course, is a standout for any meal. Once you dine there, you’ll be plotting a return. Ironwood American Kitchen serves elevated comfort food with generous portions, while The Plaza Bar offers a relaxed outdoor setting for cocktails and light bites around glowing fire pits.
Why I’d Go Back
The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess works equally well for couples, families, business travelers and multigenerational trips — no small feat. Between the expansive grounds, varied amenities, exceptional dining and consistently thoughtful service, the resort delivers a five-star experience that feels welcoming rather than formal.
Seasonal events like Christmas at the Princess add an extra layer of magic. Even without them, this is a desert retreat where vacation truly feels effortless. It’s not just a place to stay — it’s a destination.
Sharon Kurtz
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