The many choices in the 184-square-mile enclave outside of Phoenix can be overwhelming, but the ideal golf getaway begins with a check-in at the Arizona Biltmore. Staying at the Biltmore opens up playing opportunities at both of the Arizona Biltmore Golf Club’s courses, including its newest offering, the 6,669-yard Estates Course. Designed by Tom Lehman, the course will recalibrate your assumptions about desert golf. The vast majority of its almost 100 acres are grassed, presenting plenty of opportunities for creative shotmaking. “You only have a forced carry when you choose to have one,” Lehman says.

Elsewhere, the Jay Morrish–designed South Course at the Boulders Club (main image) takes players through the cacti and alongside imposing rock formations, yet its quick-rolling greens demand utmost attention. Less than 20 minutes to the south, Troon North Golf Club offers two championship-caliber courses (both designed by Morrish and the late Tom Weiskopf), which feature bentgrass greens and include a forecaddie service in the high season. “We’re so fortunate to have two spectacular courses, but they’re not the easiest to play,” says general manager Brian Thorne. “Our forecaddies add to the experience.”

Stay

Christened the Jewel of the Desert, the Arizona Biltmore was once a by-invitation-only oasis that attracted Hollywood stars such as Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable. Today, the 705-room resort boasts block-style architecture inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright and a club-like ambience that recalls the Rat Pack. (Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin reportedly staged impromptu performances at the lobby bar.)

Set just a half mile from Pinnacle Peak and the nature area’s hiking trails, Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale serves as an ideal basecamp for those looking to combine rounds at Troon North with a bit of outdoor adventure. The property’s luxuriously appointed casitas, suites, spa, and poolside cabanas make it an equally attractive abode for those just looking for some R & R.

Eat

Helmed by the James Beard Award winner Chris Bianco, Pizzeria Bianco: Town & Country specializes in artisan, wood-fired pizzas, but don’t sleep on Francesca’s meatball sandwich during lunchtime hours or the Two Wash Ranch chicken cacciatore at dinner.

Offering a five-course seasonal tasting menu, Scottsdale’s Atlas Bistro hangs its proverbial chef’s toque on ingredients that are local, organic, free-range, wild-caught, and hand-foraged. The restaurant is BYOB, but you can purchase your beverage of choice at the adjacent Atlas Wine Shop.