by Jim Kaese and Paul Huddle

We pat ourselves on the back for finding this moderately priced gem. Opened in May 2003, the Scottsdale Resort & Athletic Club is a petite 85 all-suite accommodation that rivals many five-star hotels. Although it may not wow you with external beauty or a million-dollar landscape, dollar for dollar it could be the best resort in all of Phoenix.

The building’s design requires guests to enter their chambers via motel-like outside doors, but once inside travelers are instantly aware that this is no budget lodging. Full kitchens, high quality furnishings, working fireplaces and huge floor plans with separate living and sleeping areas create a home away from home. All bedrooms boast premium mattresses, high thread count sheets and tasteful decor. In addition, most one-bedroom units can be expanded into 2-bedroom suites to accommodate families or larger groups.

The resort’s owner is a talented tennis fanatic, and the meticulously maintained outdoor-lighted hard courts evidence his addiction. This pristine racquet facility is adjacent to a 2-story full-service athletic club that is complimentary to resort guests. Inside the immaculate club, athletic-minded travelers are treated to many of the latest and greatest cardio machines, weight equipment and a full slate of exercise classes, including spin. Life Fitness 95Ti series treadmills, Cybex bikes and 15 stack-loaded weight stations are samples of the club’s stellar supply.

Swimmers are included in the fun. The 25-meter outdoor lap pool contains only one floating lane line, but stripes are marked on its bottom to create 3 lanes total.

Complete spa servides top off a worth fitness experience, not to mention the Club’s tasty restaurant, which serves Eurasian cuisine well into the night.

Note: Golfers will be happy to learn that discounted greens fees and preferential tee-times are available at the neighboring par 70 Silverado Golf Course.