15 Best Luxury Resorts in the Southwest To Relax This Winter

These getaways offer warm weather, luxe accommodations, and outdoor activities galore.

beautiful woman wearing sun hat checking into hotel room with luggage
Updated May 28, 2024
Fact checked

We receive compensation from the products and services mentioned in this story, but the opinions are the author's own. Compensation may impact where offers appear. We have not included all available products or offers. Learn more about how we make money and our editorial policies.

As the weather grows chilly in many parts of the U.S., the Southwest remains warm and inviting. Its stunning landscape and many natural wonders beckon travelers to visit.

If you want to stay in a posh resort in the Southwest, you have your pick, ranging from sophisticated desert lodges to true five-star opulence.

Here are some great options if you want to step up your travel game, escape the cold, and let your cares fall by the wayside in the glow of the desert sun.

If you’re over 50, take advantage of massive travel discounts and trip-planning resources

Over 50 and love traveling? Join AARP today — because if you’re not a member, you could be missing out on huge travel perks. When you start your membership today, you can get discounts on hotels and resorts, airfare, cruises, car rentals, and more.

How to become a member today:

  • Go here, select your free gift, and click “Join Today”
  • Create your account (important!) by answering a few simple questions
  • Start enjoying your discounts and perks!

An AARP membership not only unlocks discounts that could save you hundreds on your next trip, but you’ll also have access to deals on vacation packages, guided tours, and exclusive content to help plan your next getaway.

Important: Start your membership by creating an account here and filling in all of the information (do not skip this step!). Doing so will allow you to take up to 25% off your AARP membership, making it just $12 per year with auto-renewal.

Become an AARP member now

Amangiri, Utah

Courtesy of Aman Resorts Ltd amangiri-utah

Effortlessly arising out of the desert landscape in southern Utah not far from Lake Powell, Amangiri is the epicenter of Southwestern luxury.

Take in panoramic views while you enjoy rain showers, soaking tubs, fine dining, private fireplaces, and world-class spa and pool facilities.

Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows, Arizona

Courtesy of Andaz Scottsdale andaz-scottsdale-resort-&-bungalows

Escape winter and soak in dreamy mountain views during a stay at Andaz Scottsdale.

Spend your days exploring 23 acres of natural desert landscape and your nights in fully loaded mid-century modern rooms and suites.

You can also enjoy the spa, fitness, dining, and wellness facilities.

Bishop's Lodge, New Mexico

Courtesy of Auberge Resorts bishops-lodge-new-mexico

Bishop’s Lodge offers guests a historic Santa Fe experience in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Accommodations are elegantly curated and boast stunning views, Navajo rugs, and cozy fireplaces.

Bells and whistles at this resort include a pool, wellness services, healing experiences, and fine dining. There are also ample off-site experiences, such as hiking and fly fishing.

Earn a $250 travel bonus with this incredible card

There's a credit card that's making waves with its amazing bonus and benefits. The Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card has no annual fee and you can earn 25,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

You can earn additional points just by using this card for your everyday purchases — unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases. The 25,000 bonus points can be redeemed for a $250 statement credit toward travel or dining purchases.

If you want to travel and dine out more, the Travel Rewards card can help you get where you want to go.

The best part? There's no annual fee.

Click here to apply now.

Cliffrose Lodge, Utah

Courtesy of Hilton cliffrose-lodge-utah

Directly adjacent to Zion National Park, Cliffrose Lodge is a Hilton property with dramatic views of the cliffs from the main pool and hot tub.

Inside your accommodations, you can enjoy river or canyon views from your soaking tub or posh bed.

Enjoy a spa day after hiking through the park before having dinner on the patio.

Enchantment Resort, Arizona

Courtesy of Enchantment Resort enchantment-resort-arizona

Enchantment Resort is tucked into the breathtaking Boynton Cavern just outside of Sedona. It features a tennis court, a golf course, and a stunning pool.

You can also enjoy iconic views from inside your artfully decorated accommodations.

Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale, Arizona

Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotels four seasons resort scottsdale

Sweeping mountain and desert views await you at the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale, with everything from pickleball and poolside lounging to fitness and wellness classes and dining adventures.

The resort is also known for its world-class golfing.

The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon, Arizona

Courtesy of The Grand Hotel the grand hotel at the grand canyon

Grand Canyon National Park is the star of the Southwest. The Grand Hotel is a chalet-style resort where you can soak your cares away in the indoor pool and hot tub after exploring the South Rim of the canyon.

There is also on-site dining and a cozy fireplace to snuggle up to.

Hotel Emma, Texas

Courtesy of Hotel Emma hotel emma texas

If you’re looking for a more urban resort experience, Hotel Emma is nestled in downtown San Antonio, an iconic Southwest city.

This luxe and historic property is a converted brewhouse: You’ll feel transported to a pub in a foreign country as you relax in the main areas or your comfortable suite.

Enjoy a dip in the rooftop pool, peruse the 3,700-book library, and enjoy multiple dining options.

Miraval Austin, Texas

Courtesy of Hyatt Corporation miraval austin texas

Miraval Austin is located in Austin, on the edge of the Southwest. Here, you'll find balance via a bevy of wellness experiences and spa treatments. The 280-acre estate is nestled in the hills for gorgeous views.

After wandering through bluebonnets and soaking in the pool without a phone in sight, retire to your luxe accommodations.

Earn cash back on everyday purchases with this rare account

Want to earn cash back on your everyday purchases without using a credit card? With the Discover®️ Cashback Debit Checking account (member FDIC), you can earn 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month!1

With no credit check to apply and no monthly fees to worry about, you can earn nearly passive income on purchases you’re making anyway — up to an extra $360 a year!

This rare checking account has other great perks too, like access to your paycheck up to 2 days early with Early Pay, no minimum deposit or monthly balance requirements, over 60K fee-free ATMs, and the ability to add cash to your account at Walmart stores nationwide.

Don’t leave money on the table — it only takes minutes to apply and it won’t impact your credit score.

Apply for a Discover Cashback Checking account today

Miraval Tucson, Arizona

Courtesy of Hyatt Corporation miraval tucson arizona

The Sonoran Desert is one of the sunniest places in the country, making Miraval Tucson the perfect winter escape.

Wellness is paramount at this all-inclusive resort, where you can commune with horses, explore therapeutic drumming, practice yoga, and meditate until you achieve inner peace.

Individual accommodations are simple yet elegant and artful, letting the landscape shine and encouraging you to pursue healing.

Parker Palm Springs, California

Courtesy of Parker Palm Springs parker palm springs california

Lest you think Palm Springs isn’t the Southwest, it’s in the Sonoran Desert. Start your day at Parker Palm Springs in your colorful room, then venture out for breakfast in the sun.

Later, you can wander through the gardens, visit the spa, and take a dip in the pool.

Wind down in the evening with dinner and a cocktail as you take in the art around you and relax by the fire.

Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain, Arizona

Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton ritz carlton dove mountain

Tucked in the Tortolita Mountains of the Sonoran Desert is Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain, which boasts golf among saguaro cacti, spa treatments, three swimming pools, a giant waterslide, and five indoor and outdoor dining options for the whole family

After spending your day relaxing or on a hike, enjoy the canyon and mountain views from your posh accommodations.

Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi, New Mexico

Courtesy of Rosewood Hotel Group rosewood inn of the anasazi

Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi embodies the spirit of the Southwest in decor, cuisine, and heritage — all smack dab in the middle of downtown Santa Fe.

Explore the city by bicycle during the day, enjoy dining and tequila tastings by night, and book an in-room massage for ultimate comfort.

Keep your eye out for curated Native American art throughout this award-winning hotel.

Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, Arizona

Courtesy of Gurney's Resorts sanctuary-camelback-mountain

Sanctuary Camelback Mountain is an oasis known for its Asian-style spa treatments and accompanying reflection pond and Zen garden.

There are also plenty of activities, such as pickleball and tennis, an infinity pool, and luxe dining with desert views.

Rooms come with oversized bathtubs, fireplaces, creature comforts, and majestic mountain views.

Sorrel River Ranch & Spa, Utah

Courtesy of Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa sorrel river ranch & spa

Bask in the shadows of red-rock mesas and enjoy Colorado River views from your room at the Moab sanctuary known as Sorrel River Ranch & Spa.

Explore this iconic landscape on foot or horseback, visit two must-see national parks, go canyoning and whitewater rafting, or just relax in the pool or spa.

Stay here in ranch-style accommodations with rustic furniture, luxe bathing amenities, and private verandas with porch swings.

Bottom line

Prostock-studio/Adobe black woman making hotel reservation online using credit card

The American Southwest is the perfect place to cure your winter blues and restore your vitality, thanks to its warm climate, natural wonders, and culture of hospitality. 

So, book a trip to the Southwest this winter with your favorite travel credit card if you're a sun lover to earn travel rewards and make your stay even more epic in a luxury resort.

Easy-to-Earn Unlimited Rewards

Benefits

Card Details

  • Earn 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases
  • Earn 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases
  • Longer intro APR on qualifying purchases and balance transfers
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Apply Now
  • Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
  • 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
  • Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
  • Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 19.24% - 29.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
  • If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
  • Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
  • This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Bank of <span class='whitespace-nowrap'>America<sup>®</sup></span> Travel Rewards credit card
4.1
Apply Now

on Bank of America’s secure website

Read Card Review

Intro Offer

Earn 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases

Annual Fee

$0

+

Why we like it