The Boulders Resort & Spa

We got married at The Boulders 12 years ago and decided to come back this year for our anniversary. What a mistake. When we arrived, we wanted to sit outside on our patio and enjoy the desert view with some wine and peace and quiet. Unfortunately, housekeeping was two casitas down talking and yelling with someone very loudly for an hour and a half so it was not relaxing (nor professional). The casita was old and needed maintenance. For example, the slider door was really dirty in the track which made it hard to open and caused gaps which made the casita very cold and drafty. The bathroom door was missing a knob. The toilet paper holder kept coming apart so the paper kept falling. The rugs were old and curled up in some spots - which caused a tripping hazard. The wine glasses in the room were two different sizes/ styles - very tacky for an expensive resort. In addition, front desk staff and guest services were not very friendly or warm at all. We won't ever stay here again. We wasted a lot of money.

Even if you are not passionate for Golf, this place is truly amazing. The hotel location is magical in it´s surroundings. Rooms, golf courses, North and South, Food, and every service provided is outstanding. All the staff is always willing to help and see for your needs. I have to point out that although all the front desk staff is great, MINH, is outstanding!

RATS IN THE RAFTERS! 1 week before Xmas we booked a 2 room Exec suite (prem room). The Boulders is over 40yrs old & it shows. Minimal maintenance shows everywhere. Finally, when we ckd into our suite, there was a strange smell. We called maintenance, “we’ll deal with it tomorrow “ (like I said, minimal everything). That night, we saw, heard & smelled rats scrambling around in the ceiling rafters! This was a $1,200/night suite. Shocking! We immediately went to ck out the next morning. The day manager was very snarky, offered no explanation. Actually seemed angry we were checking out early. No apology. No credit. Never again. (As Gold member, I’m now leery of future Hilton stays).

This was a mixed bag. All the reviews previously posted are relevant and honest as far as I could tell- it just depends on your perspective. I went here solo- for some much needed decompression time. I booked a stand alone casita. I love nature. This is my kind of place. Strengths: Setting, lots of options for exercise outside and inside, facility options- 3 pools, spa, gym, group classes (golf obvi) the southwest charm of the casita layout and style. Weaknesses- not all casita's are created equal. Some are are in more central locations with lots of golf carts and people going by. There are maintenance issues- sugar ants all over the wet bar, dilapidated patio furniture w/holes, cleaning is inconsistent- hairs in the bath tub, standing water in the shower, tons of sneezing in the room dust? dog dander?. The rugs are torn and worn- bathrobes discolored. Pets are not permitted but "service dogs" are- one barked quite loudly one night, I'm not convinced they are all performing an actual service- likely leading a blind/deaf person or detecting seizures. Oh and the worst- there a foul smell when you walk into the women's lounge in the spa- like rotting potato salad- on day 3 I discovered the source- the drains in the floor in the toilet stalls and told the front desk spa folks. I communicated about all the other concerns listed- except the hairs in the tub of my first casita- Yes, I moved casita's after the first night- the casita I moved to was in a quieter location, with a view and patio chairs without holes in them but it was attached on the side to another casita? If the resort could be a bit more pro-active about cleaning, updating worn furnishings and maintenance it would have gotten a much higher rating from me.

We had a wonderful time at the Boulders Resort in Scottsdale/Carefree! From the beautifully appointed casitas, the scenic location, and the warm hospitality, we recommend the Boulders for a getaway! I wanted to highlight the Front Office Manager Shirley for going above and beyond in taking care of us during this stay! We are staying here for my wife's birthday and the staff really made this a memorable experience for us!