Sanctuary Camelback Mountain- Paradise Valley, AZ

While the current iteration of Sanctuary Camelback Mountain only dates to 2021, the property itself has mid-century roots. While much has changed over the years at the resort, there are still many reminders of its illustrious past, including its classic clubhouse, that bring you back in time.

The resort was built in the early 50s as a racquet club, modeled on a similar venture in Palm Springs. Situated on the north slope of Camelback Mountain, Hiram Hudson Beneditct, a protégée of Frank Lloyd Wright, was enlisted to design the property’s clubhouse and casitas.

With five courts, the resort soon attracted both tennis professionals and Hollywood celebrities. It proved so popular, in the mid 1960’s the property was expanded, and became John Gardiner’s Tennis Ranch. During this time the resort was known for its celebrity charity tennis tournaments and the Senator’s Cup, which saw politicians competing on their courts.

Indeed, there are plenty of fun pictures from back in day, with the likes of Elton John and Clint Eastwood dressed in tennis whites. It was so fashionable, there is even a Slim Aarons photo taken at the clubhouse.

Times change however, and in 2000 The Ranch on Camelback, as it was then known, closed. The following year, a new venture opened, less focused on tennis, but every bit as fabulous. A recent ownership change brought property renovations and a new name, Sanctuary Camelback Mountain. Updates include the modern Terrace Casitas, with outdoor showers, soaking tubs, and excellent views of Camelback Mountain.