My second visit to The BOULDERS Resort & Spa in Carefree, Arizona

This was my second trip to The Boulders. My first visit was for a friend’s wedding, while this one was for work, hosting journalists on a press trip. I knew right away it would be a completely different experience when I was escorted from the lobby by golf cart to my villa, a private residence located off the main resort grounds.

The Villa Retreat featured two long-stay units, each accommodating 6 to 10 guests, along with a private gym, hot tub, infinity pool, heated outdoor lamps, and multiple lounge areas. We also had our own golf cart to get around the property.

Tucked slightly away from the golf course, the villa was surrounded by dramatic rock formations and striking desert cacti.

View of both units on the property from the infinity pool.

Before settling in, I was given a tour and was told that Justin Timberlake had stayed in the very same villa just 2 weeks prior while launching his (then) new tequila 901.  Turns out the property is used for many meetings, groups and private events and here I was, with it all to myself for 5 days (insert squeal & happy dance)!

It was stunning. I did my best to capture the design and character of the space, though my camera at the time didn’t quite do it justice.

The cozy living room looks out to the pool and backyard area.

Check-out more pictures HERE.

My good friend Sarah had lived in Scottsdale for a few years at this point, so it was great for the opportunity to spend time with her son ‘Nicolas’ (Nico) for the first time and to have had the space to accommodate them.

That night, instead of going off-property to a restaurant such as Sassi (Italian) or RA Sushi Bar (Japanese), like we normally would have, we opted to open a bottle of wine and ordered some room service from the (limited) menu.  Remember, we were in a private residence – so having perks like access to room service was ah-may-zing!

My fascination with the Villa Retreat lasted my entire five-day stay.

2nd floor bedroom with elevator to the main floor

Each evening followed a similar rhythm. After a full day of hosting and group dinners, we would gather in the main villa to entertain our media guests over cocktails, share insights about the two championship golf courses, and review the next day’s plans.

Once the group left, I would slip into the hot tub for a quiet moment. With no light pollution, the night sky was incredibly clear, the kind of stillness that feels rare and grounding.

Overall, I’d have to say my stay at The Boulders Resort Villa Retreat was marked by the gorgeous design and decoration of the property, the ever helpful and accommodating staff, the beautiful landscaping and the fun rides in the golf carts around the property.

While The Boulders is best known for its golf, the Villa Retreat offers an entirely different experience, one that’s ideal for private celebrations, group getaways, or elevated entertaining in a desert setting.

The gorgeous rock boulders can be seen from all views of the resort.