Posted Mar 2, 2010 by C Harpley SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (February 22, 2010) -InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa has been named the number one resort by Ranking Arizona's "The Best of Arizona Business 2010" in the category of resorts/hotels with 201-349 rooms. This year marks the first time InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa has been eligible to be included in the polling process since its opening in November of 2008.
"This is such a stunning accomplishment for us to be recognized as the number one resort in Arizona after just one year of being open," said Valeriano Antonioli, Managing Director of InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa. "The Best of Arizona Business award compliments our talent's dedication to providing exceptional customer service, highlights our commitment to providing guests with an unforgettable and joyful experience and motivates us to continue to uphold the highest standard of excellence."
In addition to the resort, Joya Spa was also recognized by Ranking Arizona as it was listed in the top five best day/resort spas in Arizona.
Ranking Arizona's "The Best of Arizona Business" awards are based on the outcome of the largest business opinion poll in the state. AZ Big Media, who publishes Ranking Arizona annually, conducts the poll for the general public to vote on with categories such as the quality of a product, service and who they would recommend doing business with.

http://www.elitemeetings.com/property/intercontinental-montelucia-resort-and-spa/ Posted Mar 2, 2010 by C Harpley SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (February 25, 2010) -InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa today announced the opening of Roq, the new pool-side restaurant and nightspot showcasing American Bistro Cuisine, an expansive "ROQ-atinis" and "ROQtails" drink menu and live music. Scheduled to open on March 4th, ROQ (pronounced rock) is named for its stunning views of the glowing rocks of Camelback Mountain and the chicly-designed Kasbah Pool.

The culinary concept behind ROQ is modern American bistro cuisine; elegant but simplistic presentations focusing on fresh ingredients - produce, meats, seafood and more - from American boutique farms and local purveyors.

"We designed this menu to reflect the cool and sophisticated charm of the restaurant's open-air atmosphere," said Director of Culinary Arts Francesco Roccato. "Like the ambiance, the menu is elegant yet inviting, understated yet inspiring, exciting yet comforting. It's the perfect complement to this pool-side oasis."

ROQ's lofty architectural details and archways evoke a Mediterranean seaside escape creating the perfect environment for enjoying a relaxing dinner with friends or an intimate dinner for two. As the evening goes on, the energy will transform into a pulsating hot spot for locals and guests to gather alike with the addition of live music every Friday and Saturday night beginning at 9 pm.

"With its unique pool-side location, exotic ambiance, expansive menu of hand-crafted cocktails, and upbeat live music, Roq is perfectly positioned to become one of the hottest nightspot destinations in the Valley," said Managing Director Valeriano Antonioli. "I look forward to Roq becoming the place to be on a Friday or Saturday night this spring and summer."

Roq will be open for lunch seven days a week, and will be open for dinner Thursday - Saturday only. Reservations are encouraged. To make reservations or for more information, please call 480-627-3200.

http://www.elitemeetings.com/property/intercontinental-montelucia-resort-and-spa/ Posted Mar 2, 2010 by C Harpley SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (October 7, 2009) - InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa and Prado Restaurant, the signature resort restaurant, has been named one of the "Best New Restaurants in America" by Esquire magazine in the November issue, hitting newsstands October 13. Prado is the only restaurant in Arizona to appear on the distinguished list published annually.

"This very prestigious recognition has been one of the most highly-regarded for more than 25 years and we are thrilled that Prado is a part of it," said Valeriano Antonioli, Managing Director of InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa. "There are so many amazing new restaurants in the United States and it is a great honor for Prado to be recognized among this elite group."

Esquire's "Best New Restaurants in America" is written by world-renowned food writer, John Mariani. Mariani is a columnist for many publications including Diversion, Bloomberg News & radio, and Coyboys & Indians. He is also the author of The Encyclopedia of American Food & Drink, The Dictionary of American Food & Drink, and the award-winning The Dictionary of Italian Food and Drink Italian American Cookbook, among others.

Prado Restaurant, featuring wood-fired grilling with a Spanish accent, has become increasingly popular and has been receiving rave reviews from resort guests and locals alike since its grand opening in November, 2008. It features a unique Andalusian cooking method where the freshest seafood, meats, and produce are cooked on a grill over a wood-burning fire. Prado is committed to using the freshest ingredients dressed simply, allowing the quality of the food to shine through.

Some of the signature dishes include appetizers such as Burrata, an authentic Italian style creamy mozzarella with slow roasted tomatoes and olive bread; and Day Boat Scallops with Anson Mills polenta and romesco. Some of the main courses consist of mouthwatering dishes such as a Prime New York steak with fingerling potatoes, shishito peppers and pimenton; Colorado Lamb T Bone with spicy lamb sausage, peperonata, black olives, and wild mint; and the ever popular Paella of the Day.

While the high-quality of the food is what keeps guests coming back, it is not the only thing impressing Prado guests. The restaurant is full of character and relaxed elegance with an architectural design which reflects that of Villa San Michele designed by Michelangelo in Florence, Italy.

Led by Claudio Urciuoli, Chef de Cuisine of Prado, the restaurant is consistently releasing exciting new signature recipes using innovative techniques and ingredients. Chef Urciuoli is committed to and is an active member of the Slow Food movement and meticulously sources products that are locally and responsibly grown. His passion for fresh and indigenous products comes naturally since he was born in the southern Italian region of Campania, noted for its healthy and flavorful cuisine.

Located at the front of Prado is Mbar, a destination bar known for its delicious tapas and extensive selection of high quality, premium 100% agave tequila. Mbar's signature cocktail menu creatively blends indigenous ingredients with spirits crafting delicious, well loved cocktails. With a focus on small plates meant for sharing and unique Spanish tapas, Mbar creates an ambiance perfect for socializing, drinking and enjoying entertainment.

For more information on Prado Restaurant or to make a reservation, visit [url]www.pradolife.com[/url] or call (480) 627-3004.

http://www.elitemeetings.com/property/intercontinental-montelucia-resort-and-spa/ Posted Nov 6, 2008 by Elite Concierge InterContinental Hotels & Resorts and Crown Realty & Development announced today the opening of the first U.S. resort - InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa - in Paradise Valley, a residential enclave of Scottsdale, Ariz.

The much-anticipated luxury resort is situated at the coveted location off Tatum and Lincoln boulevards, providing guests convenient access to optimum shopping districts, dining, hiking and recreation and entertainment venues in Phoenix and Scottsdale. The 34-acre resort includes 253 luxurious guest rooms and 40 suites including 2 presidential suites, 34 luxurious detached, single-family Villas, six unique restaurants and venues, a private wedding chapel, a 31,000-square foot destination spa and salon, five pools, and more than 27,000 square feet of meeting and event space.

InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa reflects its European influences from the dcor to dining experiences. The resorts suites, such as the Andalusian and Camelback suites, offer 3,000 square feet of indoor living space, in addition to a private event lawn and pool. All guest rooms provide the latest in modern technology, including flat-screen televisions, high-speed Internet access, fully stocked mini bar, custom feather beds, large working areas, and large tiled bathrooms with oversized sunken bathtubs and large walk-in showers with dual showerheads.

The importance of this beautiful property to the legacy of InterContinental Hotels cannot be measured, said Tom Murray, Chief Operating Officer, Americas, for InterContinental Hotels Group. We are welcoming a truly fantastic property to a line-up of legendary hotels around the world.

InterContinental Montelucia discovered its inspiration, from the architecture to the lifestyle, in the Andalusia region of Southern Spain. Andalusia has a rich cultural history and influences from Roman, Greek, and Moorish occupation. These European influences and attention to detail are reflected throughout the resort from the dcor and distinctive colors to the flavors within the dining experiences.

Five years of effort and over $300 million dollars has created an inspiration of lasting relevance that will elevate the entire resort market in the Valley of the Sun, said Jaime Sohacheski,, Chairman of the Board of Crown Realty & Development, the developer and owner of the resort. We are proud to have achieved this milestone.

The inspiration is showcased in dozens of areas throughout the resort, a few of the most prominent instances being the Alhambra walkway, Prado, and Castillo Lucena. The Alhambra walkway is modeled after the Alhambra in Grenada, Spain, the signature restaurant, Prado, is inspired by Michelangelos Villa San Michele in Tuscany, and the wedding chapel, Castillo Lucena, is representative of the ballroom at Hotel Cipriani in Venice. Throughout the entire resort are beautiful Spanish inspired courtyards and countless unique antiquities from Spain.

The inspiration behind the resort is what makes it so special and unique, said Robert Flaxman, President, Crown Realty & Development. InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa is unlike any other luxury resort in that it was created to bring people together to find joy, experience love and create memories.

Joya Spa
Joya Spa, conceived by renowned spa creator Sylvia Sepielli, is an expansive Moroccan-inspired 31,000 square foot spa, with 5,200 square feet of outdoor space. The spa houses 19 treatment rooms including five opulently-oversized treatment suites with terraces, king size daybeds, dual treatment tables, fireplaces, flat-screen televisions, outdoor and indoor showers, in-suite bathrooms with sunken tubs and direct poolside access " perfect for girlfriend getaways. Joya Spa is the first in Arizona to offer a Hammam and Hammam-inspired therapies and treatments.

Additionally, under the direction of eastern medicine experts, Joyas Wellness Program offers thorough health and lifestyle assessments with a prescription designed to reduce stress, improve sleep and promote balance, along with custom acupuncture treatments.

Joya Spa also contains Joya Salon, the fashion-forward luxury boutique Joya Bazaar, quiet and active lounges, a state-of-the-art 24-hour fitness center, juice bar, and Joya Terrace restaurant at Joyas rooftop pool and poolside cabanas.

Culinary
The InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa features six unique restaurants and venues. Prado, the resorts signature restaurant, offers wood-fired grilling with a Spanish accent in an atmosphere that reflects the architectural design of Villa San Michele designed by Michelangelo in Tuscany, Italy. Within Prado is Mbar, featuring a comprehensive selection of 100% agave tequilas and tapas.

For a more casual dining experience, Kasbah Poolside Bar entices guests with a sparkling partial-infinity pool, spectacular views, a Rum Bar specializing in premium rums from key regions of the western hemisphere, and a menu of more than a dozen French fries from around the world. With fire features and outdoor seating, Kasbah seamlessly blends the elements of nature into a sensual poolside lounge.

Another poolside adventure is Oasis Pavilion, a fun place to relax, enjoy poolside tranquility, and various culinary offerings on a menu featuring handmade empanadas.

Joya Spa Terrace & Juice Bar offers fresh and healthful salads, ceviches and flatbreads - but in keeping with Joyas mission to enhance life and bring joy - burgers, French fries, sangria and cocktails, signature Joya cupcakes, and other indulgences are available. Guests can enjoy Joya Terrace offerings in the spa, salon, or rooftop pool deck featuring breathtaking Camelback mountain views.

At Crave Caf, locals line up for Lavazza coffee, gelato, chocolate, wine and more. Appealing to what people crave, the caf also offers to-go foods and features a retail program for women, pets, children and anyone with a passion for indulging a craving. Food items include flavorful coffee drinks, gelato and premium chocolate along with wine & liquor, gourmet packaged foods, gift baskets and retail items.

Weddings & Social Events
As Arizonas only luxury resort with a private wedding chapel, Castillo Lucena, InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa offers an ideal atmosphere for the perfect social gala or wedding celebration, accommodating from 10 to more than 1000 guests. Bridal guests can choose between the wedding chapel, with antique wood doors and wedding courtyards garden with the exquisite Camelback Mountain as the backdrop. A 3,000 square foot wedding suite with private event lawn rounds out the extensive and thoughtfully-designed wedding venues.

Brides and their bridal party can prepare for the event in their very own intimate bridal preparation room offering privacy and direct access to Castillo Lucena. Spa treatments, hair styling and make-up can also be arranged by a team of professionals to create a luxury-filled and worry-free wedding experience.

Meetings & Events
With more than 27,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space, including the astounding 9,216 square-foot Grand Andalusian Ballroom, 4,650 square-foot Junior Ballroom and 16 separate meeting rooms, the resort easily caters to meetings and incentive groups. Capitalizing on the enjoyable year-round weather is 70,000 square feet of event space in seven outdoor venues. Innovative catered food and beverage service is available for all events.

Other Amenities
The resort also features many other services and amenities including a complimentary driving range at Mountain Shadows Golf Club and a full-time golf concierge; a 24-hour business center; the day-camp-style interactive Planet Trekkers Kids Club for children ages 5-12; various retail outlets; covered overnight valet parking; limo, sedan, taxi and van service; and same day dry cleaning and pressing.

It is thrilling to see our vision becomes a reality, said Valeriano Antonioli, Managing Director of InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa. I believe we have succeeded in creating the most magnificent resort in the Valley and we cannot wait to welcome our first guests to this romance-filled, magical place where they will find joy, happiness and live perfect moments. Posted Oct 27, 2008 by Elite Concierge Arizonas Newest Luxury Resort to Set New Standard in Spa Experience

PARADISE VALLEY, Arizona (May 20, 2008) " InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa today announced the name, concept and unique details of the two-story, 31,000 square-foot world-class Spa at the InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa, set to open in August. Named Joya " an interpretation of the Spanish word for jewel " the spa features Moorish architectural accents, the vibrancy and energy of Morocco and the soul of Southern Spain.

An expansive space with more than 5,000 square feet of outdoor space alone, Joya Spa is located in the heart of soon-to-open InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa grounds in the town of Paradise Valley, an exclusive enclave of luxury hotels, breathtaking mountain views, multi-million dollar homes, world-class restaurants, shopping, brilliant sunshine and starry desert night skies.

The Moroccan-inspired dcor, Hammam ritual and the views and physical beauty of the location are uniquely part of the Joya Spa experience and are unlike any other spa, said Sabrina Cormack, Spa and Retail Director. The minute Joya Spa welcomes its first guest; it will join an elite class of resort and destination spas.

Design
Designed by Sylvia Sepielli, world renowned spa expert, consultant and owner of SPAd, LLC, Joya Spa channels the raw splendor of Moorish Andaluca Spain with whitewashed walls contrasting vibrant hues of ochre and multi-colored, custom-made Moroccan tiles.

Space is the ultimate luxury, and in my travels I constantly sought and didnt often find a spa experience where one could relax in spacious comfort, said Robert Flaxman, CEO of Crown Realty and Development, developer and owner of the resort. When creating the vision for Joya Spa, the luxury of space was always of utmost importance and that was the intention behind the quiet and social lounges, the spa rooftop pool deck and the oversized suites " guests can feel comfortable all day in the spa.

Treatment Rooms
The 19 treatment rooms are soothing and neutral with frothy layers of draperies and crisp-white linens. Of the 19 rooms, five are couples suites offering private whirlpools and outdoor showers with breathtaking views; and the ultimate in luxury " the Palace Suite " allows guests to experience transformative relaxation in 850-sqaure feet of privacy complete with a queen-size daybed, oversized bathtub, indoor whirlpool, fireplace, luxurious treatment tables and floor-to-ceiling doors opening up to the outdoor spa pool deck.

A bright active lounge serves as a social area for guests before or after treatments, with fuchsias, greens and other hues evoking the brilliance and energy of a Moroccan marketplace. By contrast, the quiet lounge is moody, with neutral wall color, soft textures and seating including day beds, creating a relaxation lounge for guests to prepare for their therapy.

The outdoor rooftop pool, Joya Terrace, also serves as social space with cabanas, healthful Moroccan and Mediterranean-inspired poolside food and beverage service and unobstructed views of well-known skyline feature Camelback Mountain.

InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa was designed to provide the authentic luxury spa experience savvy world-travelers have come to expect, explained Sepielli. By embracing the beauty of the surrounding area, the lush grounds of the resort and the latest in spa technology and relaxation trends, we have created the ultimate spa experience for resort guests and residents.

Rituals
An example of the Joya Spa difference is in the moments " jewels " of discovery that unfold in rituals designed to allow guests to fully relax and leave the worries of the world behind.

To prepare for entry into the Spa, guests are encouraged to rinse their hands with soothing waters from the reflection pool in the spa courtyard to wash their worries away, the first of seven Jewels of Discovery found in the Joya Spa experience.

Jewel of discovery numbers two and three are found in two domed rooms with pedestals; the first a pedestal with a Moroccan scrub stone designed to allow guests to make a wish, and the second a crystal ball pedestal lit by an overhead representation of the starlight in the night sky in Granada, Spain, where guests take deep, calming breaths and set their intention for the spa experience.

Custom fiber-optics will light the second Jewel of Discovery dome with an exact replica of the night sky in Granada, Spain, added Flaxman. Each authentic and unique detail like the starry sky creates an experience that leaves a lasting memory of the Joya Spa journey.

Jewel of discovery number four is the wet area ritual; a modern interpretation of a traditional Hammam experience, a 15-minute add-on therapy which includes a scrub with traditional Moroccan black soap and essential oils, designed to prepare the mind and body for spa treatments.

The Hammam experience unfolds by guests entering a warm room where they rest before being escorted to a dimly-lit, tiled treatment room for a scrub. Next, guests are guided to a steam room before balancing the heat with a cold deluge. Then guests move on the whirlpool, where they relax as targeted lumbar points massage the lower back and a wave action soothes the body into a state of weightlessness. From the whirlpool guests move to the sauna, and finally, to the relaxation lounge to wait for their therapist.

Jewel of discovery five is the serene quiet lounge, six is the spa treatment itself and seven is maintaining an ongoing relationship with guests.

Signature Treatments
The signature of Joya Spa is full customization. Every treatment, whether facial, body or massage, is customized to the guests needs, health and skin type. Product lines were selectively chosen to complement the Joya Spa experience and include Natura Bisse, Eminence organic, Charme de Orient, Phyto Fleurs, Lillian Terry mud and clays, and other results-oriented product lines.

From two-hour to all-day Journeys (spa packages), customized Rituals including the Hammam Ritual, Moroccan-inspired skin and body treatments, mineral and clay wraps, customized massages, Diamante y Oro (Diamond and Gold) treatments featuring real gold and diamond dust, Henna tanning and tattooing, treatments at Joya Spa represent a modern, creative interpretation of old world treatments not found at other spas in the region.

Fitness
The second-floor 37-piece (19 cardio, 18 strength) Technogym-equipped fitness center overlooks Camelback Mountain and the rural desert beauty of Paradise Valley, creating a stunning place to work up a sweat. Additionally, there are two free weight areas, a stretching station and group fitness in the motion studio, also overlooking Camelback Mountain. Sunrise yoga, sunset spinning, dance and other group fitness classes will also be offered in the studio as well as outside on the fitness center terrace.

Outside the literal confines of the resort, which sits at the base of Camelback Mountain, guests will be offered trail maps and mileage recommendations, as well as non-guided and guided hiking and rock-climbing opportunities. For the adrenaline-seeking guest, rappelling off of Camelback Mountain overlooking the resort and the exclusive enclave of Paradise Valley below is offered.

Salon
Designed to become a sought-after salon by locals and with internationally-trained top stylist talent, Joya Salon has 9 styling stations, 6 manicure and 5 pedicure stations, as well as a private courtyard for relaxation or for outdoor manicures or pedicures.

Memberships
Joya Spa offers a limited number of private memberships for local and seasonal residents who view the spa lifestyle as a necessity, not just an occasional luxury. Members will enjoy exclusive privileges, including priority scheduling and access to the state-of-the-art fitness facilities, private rooftop pool, and luxuriously-appointed Social Lounge.

The vision of Joya Spa is to create unparalleled, magical and innovative experiences that help people live and feel better, said Valeriano Antonioli, Managing Director of InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa. Joya Spa has been designed with a sophisticated approach to a natural spa experience that contributes to total-person wellness and happiness, allowing our guests to experience perfect moments. We aim to be the spa that people love.

Poised to become the newest luxury resort and spa in the region, the 293-room InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa is slated in open in late summer 2008 with a signature restaurant, destination bar, three additional food and beverage outlets and full lifestyle offerings for guests and residents. Posted Oct 27, 2008 by Elite Concierge PARADISE VALLEY, Arizona (June 5, 2008) "InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa, set to open in late summer, today announced wedding packages and venues designed to create perfect weddings for destination and local brides " including the ultimate $5 million wedding package which includes a honeymoon for life in a multi-million dollar private villa home on resort grounds in the exclusive enclave of Paradise Valley.

Ultimate Wedding Package

The ultimate wedding package is $5 million (USD)*, begins on a Thursday and ends on Sunday for up to 250 guests, but goes on for 10 additional days for a honeymoon at the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa for the bride and groom, and continues for life in a new multi-million dollar luxury villa on resort grounds.

The $5 million wedding package includes amenities discerning brides and grooms and up to 250 guests require, plus extravagancies including:

- Welcome rooftop Cava reception and gift in each guest room

- 2,800 square foot suite for the bride and groom and luxury guest rooms for each guest

- Poolside brunch, cocktail reception under the stars and full-day guest entertainment for the weekend including rappelling off Camelback Mountain, private yoga instruction, a luxury private jet and helicopter adventure to the Grand Canyon, full-day unlimited spa packages, performance car racing lessons, skydiving and more

- Rehearsal dinner of a cookout under the stars or ultra-gourmet dinner in high-rise loft with city views

- Wedding day spa treatments, hair and makeup for the bride and her party and a Big Day grooming package for the men including a mans facial, shave and trim

- Custom diamond jewelry for the bride and groom to exchange

-Ceremony in the private wedding chapel, cocktail reception, dinner and dancing in the ballroom with a custom menu and a dedicated sommelier with wines from around the world expertly paired to each course

- Live entertainment including the first dance to a song written and performed by a major recording artist

- Custom floral arrangements, officiant for the ceremony, all meals for the weekend, luxury transportation to and from the airport for all guests

-Private jet transportation and accommodations for the bride and groom for a 10-day all-inclusive honeymoon in Bora Bora at the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa

Increasing the price tag and value of the package is the final component " a luxurious single-family villa from 3,800 square feet and meticulously designed to create a magnificent private living environment. One-of-a-kind features include custom hand-forged lighting, hand-carved doors, individual etched glass vessel sinks, beautiful flooring and fixture options, as well as a unique collection of art.

Dedicated staff caters to villa residents every need through concierge services including grocery delivery, dry cleaning services, room service and transportation arrangements, among others. All Villa owners enjoy a dedicated pool and whirlpool spa, as well as full access to InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa amenities.

For couples not yet ready to spend $5 million, five all-inclusive wedding packages are available beginning at $190 per person and include a cocktail reception, bar package, dinner service, wedding cake, valet parking and deluxe overnight accommodations for the bride and groom.


Designed for Weddings

Creating the perfect wedding venue was a key consideration in the design of the soon-to-open luxury resort and spa. Robert Flaxman, CEO of resort developer Crown Realty & Development, went so far as to conduct a focus group with top wedding planners to hear their wish list for ideal wedding venues.

The views and location are breathtaking, and combining that with the wishes of the best wedding planners, we created the ultimate wedding destination, said Flaxman. With beautifully-appointed venues for the rehearsal dinner, ceremony, reception, wedding night suite and farewell brunch, a wedding party never has to leave the property.


Idyllic Venues

The resort offers options for setting the scene for the perfect wedding celebration whether its for 6 or 660 guests. With eight unique venues for ceremonies and receptions, the ceremony can take place under an 18 high cathedral ceiling in the private wedding chapel or at sunset outside on the sprawling wedding lawn with Camelback Mountain as the backdrop.

Castillo Lucena wedding chapel has direct access to the vibrant Cortijo Plaza where the bride and groom have to opportunity to make pre-wedding wishes in the wishing well and ring the custom bell upon conclusion of the ceremony.

Inspired by the Granaries of the Republic at the Hotel Cipriani in Venice, Italy, the chapel is named after its 18-foot doors that were hand-crafted for a castle in the 16th century in the village of Lucena, Spain, making Castillo Lucena a fitting moniker for the space. The wedding chapel has the capacity to seat up to 350.

Ballrooms include the 9,216 square-foot Grand Andalusian and 4,650 square-foot Valencia, seating 660 guests and 350 guests respectively. The Valencia Ballroom is accompanied by a private 8,500 square-foot lawn. Additional venues include the Secret Garden for a small ceremony, the Bocce Garden with 6,000 square-feet of lush outdoor space or Camelback Lawn with 4,000 square-feet of lawn with views of Camelback Mountain.

Wedding Suites

In addition to guest rooms, all with private patios, InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa has suites designed specifically for weddings. Isabella is a room equipped with a full restroom and mirrors for the bride and her bridal party to make final touches before the event. This suite offers a living room setting and has access through a private entrance to Castillo Lucena.

The two-bedroom 881-square foot Plaza Suite in the Cortijo Plaza has two private patios with breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain and a private staircase with direct access to the Plaza and Castillo Lucena.

For weddings or honeymoons, free-standing luxury suites include the Camelback Wedding Suite, which includes 2,800 square feet of living space and master bath salon amenities such as a full-length makeup mirror and hairstyling chairs, which allow the bride to privately prepare with her bridal party. The Andalusian Suite offers 2,800 square feet of living space with a private yard and pool.

Joya Spa & Salon

The more than 31,000 square-foot Joya Spa provides a spacious and luxurious venue for pampering and preparation for the wedding day. Brides and guests can enjoy a variety of signature massages, facials and special wedding day packages, or make their spa experience more intimate and relaxing by having treatments in a private suite or grand Palace couples suite. A destination salon with top stylists, Joya Salon has 9 styling stations and manicure and pedicure stations, along with private courtyard for relaxation or outdoor manicures or pedicures.

Cuisine

Food and beverage is an integral part of the wedding experience and the culinary talent will create custom menus and expertly paired wines that evoke authentic culinary experiences of Southern Spain and beyond " creating lifelong memories for the bridal party and their guests.

InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa is committed to making the entire wedding and event experience beautiful and memorable with luxury, laughter and fun, said Valeriano Antonioli, Managing Director of the resort and spa. Imagine a private rehearsal dinner poolside, moving on to a day of friendship and intimacy in the private bridal room and as the groom reclines in the wine cellar with his closest friends, and the day ending with the bride and groom sipping the finest Champagne on their private suite watching the sun set over Camelback Mountain.

Poised to become the newest luxury resort and spa in the region, the 293-room InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa is slated in open in late summer 2008 with a signature restaurant, destination bar, three additional food and beverage outlets and full lifestyle offerings for guests and residents.