Inspired by the Andalusia region of southern Spain, the InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa opened its 253 guest rooms and 40 suites in November 2008, at the foot of Camelback Mountain near Phoenix in tranquil Paradise Valley.

The spectacular new resort is on the site of the former La Posada Resort, but after five years and a $300 million investment, the Montelucia is unlike anything seen outside of Spain. Set on 34 acres, it features six restaurants; five pools; the 31,000-square-foot, Moroccan-inspired Joya Spa; and 27,000 square feet of meeting space, including the 9,216-square-foot Grand Andalusian Ballroom, a junior ballroom, 16 meeting rooms, and another 70,000 square feet of outdoor space.

With intimate courtyards, cozy outdoor fireplaces, and graceful antiques from Spain throughout the resort, guests feel transported to another time and place. But guest rooms and suites feature flat-screen televisions and high-speed Internet access, of course, as well as feather beds, large work areas, and beautiful tiled bathrooms with oversized tubs and large walk-in showers with dual showerheads. Stunning Joya Spa offers 19 treatment rooms, including five large rooms with private outdoor terraces.

Prado restaurant is inspired by Michelangelo's Tuscan Villa San Michele. The Kasbah Poolside Bar serves premium rums and a menu of more than a dozen types of French fries from around the world.

The resort's “take-over” option gives groups private access to 66 rooms, a pool, and restaurant.