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There comes a point in the run-up to Christmas when the to-do list becomes longer than the daylight hours. What better time, then, to escape somewhere with endless sunshine, spectacular scenery and a more relaxed approach to the festive season? Welcome to Scottsdale, Arizona, where autumn might just be the best-kept secret in the American Southwest. Locals have even coined a name for it: ‘Falliday’, that glorious window between summer and the winter holidays when warm days give way to cooler evenings, the crowds have yet to descend and the city comes alive with seasonal celebrations. Think desert sunsets, twinkling lights and an opportunity to indulge in some well-deserved me time.
From a full-blown spa retreat to an afternoon of pampering, there are plenty of ways to recharge your batteries
And indulgence is something Scottsdale does exceptionally well. The city boasts more spas per capita than anywhere else in the United States, with luxurious resorts offering everything from treatments inspired by the Sonoran Desert’s native botanicals to restorative wellness experiences. Whether you’re after a full-blown spa retreat or an afternoon of pampering, there are plenty of ways to recharge your batteries. Of course, relaxation comes in many forms. For some, it might mean lacing up their hiking boots and heading into the Sonoran Desert, where towering cacti punctuate a landscape of rugged mountains and sun-baked trails.
Saguaro cacti frame a walking trail at the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale
Then there’s the food. Scottsdale’s flourishing culinary scene offers an impressive collection of award-winning restaurants, with inventive chefs drawing inspiration from the region’s ingredients and flavours. Pair dinner with a spectacular desert sunset and you’ve got the makings of a memorable evening. For a dose of culture, head to Old Town Scottsdale, where hundreds of boutiques, galleries and restaurants are concentrated within a wonderfully walkable half-mile radius.
As the holiday season approaches, Scottsdale strikes an appealing balance between celebration and relaxation. There’s enough sparkle to get you in the festive spirit, with ample opportunities to escape the seasonal madness and unwind in the serene stillness of the Arizona desert. After all, the greatest gift you can give yourself might just be a little time away.
Discover your perfect autumn escape at unwindinscottsdale.com
