5 Best Hotels in North-Central Arizona, Arizona

The sleek rooms at this boutique property next to gurgling Oak Creek but convenient to town come with many extras, including yoga classes, access to a spa and fitness center, complimentary mountain bikes, and a shuttle to nearby shops and restaurants. Step out onto your room's private balcony or terrace to take in expansive views of the red rocks or pool and waterfalls.

A few miles outside town, gorgeous Boynton Canyon is the setting for this luxurious resort and its world-class destination spa, Mii amo. The rooms and suites are tucked into small, pueblo-style buildings, and accommodations come in many configurations: multiple bedrooms can be joined to create large, elaborate suites. All have beehive gas fireplaces, private decks, and superb views. Mii amo Spa offers all-inclusive packages with separate rooms and suites in the spa complex, as well as myriad treatments and innovative spa cuisine.

These one- and two-bedroom cabins nestled in a juniper and pine forest (hence the name) are spacious and airy, with vaulted ceilings, wood-burning fireplaces, and large decks overlooking either the creek or the canyon. An excellent value for groups of four or more, some cabins are more than 1,400 square feet and sleep up to six people. Junipine's most enchanting feature might be the sound of Oak Creek roaring below, lulling you to sleep by the fire.

This elegant resort consists of private hillside units with spectacular views and cozy cottages in the woods along Oak Creek. The original creekside rooms, with wood-burning fireplaces, are decorated in lush country-European style, and the contemporary units on the hill have large decks and private open-air showers. Phoenix couples flock to this hideaway and dine in the hotel's French restaurant, one of the most romantic eateries in Arizona. The creekside patio bar is a great place for a cocktail or light meal.

On a hill on the outskirts of town, this upscale property run by the Yavapai tribe has views of the mountain ranges surrounding Prescott and the valley, although many guests hardly notice, so riveted are they by the poker machines and slots in Prescott's only hotel casino. There are plenty of recreational facilities, including a saltwater pool, full-service spa, and good restaurant, to occupy those able to resist the gambling.