Whether lit by the glimmer of the sharp Arizona sun, the twinkling stars blanketing Paradise Valley, or the soft glow of votive candles in the bedroom, the Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain seems to be consistently cast in its most flattering light. Ironically, if it weren't for some mega-watt star power, this lovely desert resort may not have existed at all.

In the 1950s, several Hollywood stars (John Ireland, Joanne Dru, and Sydney Chaplin among them) joined forces with architect

Whether lit by the glimmer of the sharp Arizona sun, the twinkling stars blanketing Paradise Valley, or the soft glow of votive candles in the bedroom, the Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain seems to be consistently cast in its most flattering light. Ironically, if it weren't for some mega-watt star power, this lovely desert resort may not have existed at all.

In the 1950s, several Hollywood stars (John Ireland, Joanne Dru, and Sydney Chaplin among them) joined forces with architect Hiram Hudson Benedict and commissioned a clubhouse, casita, and tennis courts for their leisure. A protégée of Frank Lloyd Wright, Benedict incorporated many of the trademark features of his mentor. For instance, the boxy, angular architecture was intended to blend into the wild landscape. The results have stood the test of time, and the resort is still equal parts sleek, earthy, modern, and cozy.

Accommodations at Sanctuary are divided into rooms and suites, with size being the most noticeable difference. Deep colors and uncluttered minimalism define Spa Casita Rooms. A snug 650 square feet, the view from the floor-to-ceiling windows and smooth stained concrete floors add to the illusion of spaciousness. The significantly larger Spa Casita Suites have an outdoor soaking tub, perfect for cooling off on a hot afternoon, and a lava-rock fireplace to warm up brisk evenings. Mountain Vista Casitas encompass 500 square feet of hideaway featuring such homey touches as wood floors and decorative glass tile. Mountain Vista Suites showcase travertine marble in the bath and a limestone dining table, each in natural contrast to the room's streamlined modern furniture. Luxurious details such as goose-down feather beds and Mascioni linens are found in all.

Luxury aside, one of the most fantastic features of this property is the mountain itself. Not long after it was built, the resort (then named the Paradise Valley Racquet Club) drew some of the biggest names in tennis. One, John Gardiner, purchased it to create John Gardiner's Tennis Ranch. After dozens of homes and casitas were added to the property, all eyes turned to the land beyond it: Camelback Mountain. Concerned with the future of the undeveloped mountain, Gardiner transferred some of his land to a trust designed to save it. So while the resort itself has a distinctive vintage L.A. vibe, its natural red rocky backdrop is equally appreciated. Now protected, Camelback Mountain continues to exude a sacredness that evokes harmony, calm, and inspiration in those who visit.