Poco Diablo Resort: Golf, Massages and Filet Mignon

Like almost every Phoenician here in the Valley, I try to head up north as much as possible to get relief from the intense heat. However, when compared to the humidity of the East Coast and Midwest, I will take the dry heat any day — but that is a whole different blog in itself.

Sedona is a quick, hour-and-a-half jaunt from Phoenix with no traffic; and, at a little over 4,300 feet, you can almost be assured that you can comfortably have your dinners on the patio.

My wife and I stayed for three days and two nights at the Poco Diablo Resort, just off the State Route 179, on the south end of Sedona. I was intrigued by the fact that in the center of the resort surrounded by rooms and suites there was a nine-hole, par three golf course.

After dropping off our eight-month-old daughter with her grandma, my wife and I hopped on the I-17 on a hot, 110-degree Sunday afternoon to head up north. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the resort’s friendly concierge, pointing us to the front desk. Just past the concierge, you are given the visual pleasure of a very well-kept golf course with those famous Red Rocks in the background. After checking in, we were off to our King Poco room.

When I made my reservation, I had mentioned that my wife and I were celebrating her recent accomplishment of completing her Masters in social work at the University of Denver. They took this information and made sure we were welcomed with sparkling cider and fresh, chocolate-dipped strawberries in our room. It was a nice added touch to kick off our little getaway.

After finishing our dessert, we headed to the resort’s restaurant T.Carls. Because it was closing in on dusk at a cool 72 degrees, we opted for the patio. Whenever I visit a new restaurant, I always order its filet mignon as a judge to the quality of its product. Having worked at a five star, five diamond restaurant for three years, I notice the little things when out at dinner — almost to a fault.

As our entrées were presented to us, my eyes lit up when I discovered that my filet mignon cut was similar to those found at Ruth’s Chris Steak House and Donovan’s (thick, seared and juicy).  There is nothing sweeter than a medium-rare filet just melting in your mouth. Thank you, T.Carls; thank you.

One of my favorite memories of this trip was the breakfast that my wife and I shared on the patio. With views of the Red Rocks in the background; and with a well-kept golf course at your feet, I cannot think of a better setting to enjoy coffee and a hearty meal in 70-degree weather. It was a relaxing experience to get you ready for the day.

After shopping and exploring Sedona for the day, there is only one way to relax. For my wife, it was a massage in our hotel room with Sedona as the backdrop. And as for me? A quick nine holes of golf.

Poco Diablo allows you to relax and encourages you to recharge your batteries; and at the price it offers, it can’t be beat.

I highly recommend splurging a little bit for the King Poco room, which sits on the golf course; plus, its patio offers no barrier between you and the course. As an added bonus, every room at the Poco Diablo Resort offers flat screen televisions; high-speed, wireless Internet; and its newly installed Simmons EverNu Beauty Rest beds.