The Boulders Resort & Golden Door Spa, Scottsdale, Arizona, features two championship, Jay Morrish courses, both designed to incorporate and accentuate the breathtaking surroundings and sweeping panoramic views and to have as little impact upon the delicate Sonoran ecosystem as possible. Both courses stretch across the enchanting Sonoran Desert landscape, splashes of verdant green that meander back and forth among the ancient rock formations, and sun-splashed terrain. These two grand golf courses make the Boulders Resort & Golden Door Spa in Scottsdale one of Arizona's premier golf resorts, and definitely one of my own personal top 10 choices.
The Boulders Resort in Scottsdale is a one of those places where the spectacular scenery is just as much a part of the experience as is the luxury and opulence of the resort itself. The land is as old as time itself. The colossal rock formations and boulders, from which the resort takes it name, are the residue of a cataclysmic geological upheaval more than 12 million years ago that ultimately led to the creation of the Grand Canyon. The Boulders is wild country, unspoiled, quiet and seemingly as far away from it all as one can get, but is actually only 15 minutes from Scottsdale.
It’s a land where tiny critters, ever watchful for the predators – snakes and raptors – that also call the desert home, eke out a daily but sparse existence among the rocks, brush and saguaro. A wayward drive here is an adventure all its own. The rugged terrain, tight fairways and the natural hazards that lie just beyond them, make for a real golfing challenge, but one that’s more enjoyable than punishing – the breathtaking scenery more than makes up for the odd lost ball.
Read my full review of The Boulders Resort, its golf courses, spa and restaurants.