THE PLACE
TUCSON
Tucson can't match Phoenix-Scottsdale for quantity of
top-tier hotels and golf courses, but it stacks up well
where quality is concerned. Off-course, Tucson's nearby
hills are perfect for mountain biking or horseback riding.
And for those in need of some R&R, it's the luxury-spa
capital of the Southwest. Life in Balance at Miraval and
the Canyon Ranch Spa have both been rated among the
nation's best. There aren't quite as many diversions down
here, but Tucson delivers great buddy golf in a relaxed
atmosphere.
STAYING
Westin La Paloma
520-742-6000; westinlapalomaresort.com; from
$349/night.
You can't go wrong with Loews Ventana Canyon or the Hilton
El Conquistador for a first-class golf experience, but
overall, the Westin gets the nod as much for its Catalinas
location as for its three beautiful (and brutal) Nicklaus
nines.
PLAYING
The Gallery, North Course
520-744-4700; gallerygolf.com; $175. Tucson's best-kept
secret is that the public can play at the Gallery on a
space-available basis. One day the John Fought and Tom
Lehman–designed North course is totally private; the
next day it opens its doors to savvy travelers. The same
holds true for the newer South course, a Fought solo job.
La Paloma
520-299-1500; westinlapalomaresort.com; $195. Not a
single
water hazard touches La Paloma's twenty-seven Jack Nicklaus
holes, but there's no shortage of trouble. Deep bunkers,
huge mounds, heavily contoured greens, cactus-choked
chasms—it's all there, in a gorgeous and extremely
challenging package.
Starr Pass
520-670-0400; starrpasstucson.com; $190 through April 30,
then rates fall. In 2004 the premier course on Tucson's
west side was reworked by Arnold Palmer into twenty-seven
holes, though the saguaro-framed greens remain.
Ventana Canyon, Mountain Course
520-577-4061; thelodgeatventanacanyon.com; $225.
Coyotes,
horned owls, bobcats and a plethora of other critters share
in the fun at this 1984 Tom Fazio design. The
calendar-worthy par-three third, a flip wedge to a putting
surface engulfed by saguaro cacti, is unforgettable.
DINING
McMahon's Prime Steakhouse: 520-327-7463. Tucson may have
more-historic meat-eating meccas, but none are better than
this clubby enclave. McMahon's features an outstanding wine
list and cigar bar.
Vivace (Italian): 520-795-7221. Chef Daniel Scordato has
been pleasing Tucson palates for decades. This spot, with
its handsome, Tuscan-style setting, is his best yet. The
penne with sausage and sweet roasted red pepper is a
classic.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
Miraval, Life in Balance: 800-232-3969, miravalresort
.com.
Michael Jordan is just one famous patron of this monument
to well-being. It's not just grooming and massage, either.
Check out the golf fitness and nutritional programs.
University of Arizona Men's Basketball: TickCo,
800-279-4444, tickco.com. Home games of coach Lute Olson's
perennial powerhouse Wildcats at McKale Center are the
toughest tickets in the state.
*ALL LODGING PRICES BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
