With so many golf course options in the Phoenix area, it's no wonder this metropolis is a coveted destination for golfers from all corners of the world.

The newly renovated Xona Resort Suites in North Scottsdale understands that reality better than most of the resorts in the area, which is why it is rising in popularity as a “base” for many a golf vacation.

$16-million Facelift

Formerly known simply as Resort Suites Scottsdale, the newly named Xona (pronounced “zona”) underwent a $16-million facelift last year in the midst of the harsh recession, re-opening some eight months ago.

Located just a short distance from the better-known Fairmont Scottsdale Resort (home to a regular PGA Tour stop—the Waste Management Phoenix Open), the 14-acre Xona Resort features a newly designed front lobby, upgraded guest suites (which come in one-, two- and four-bedroom options, ranging in size from 600 to 1,800 square feet, all with kitchenettes), and Asada Desert Grille, a new concept restaurant that focuses on grilled fish and meat dishes.

Throw in four pools and four whirlpool spas and you have one heck of a facility.

“Our goal was to create a warm and welcoming gathering place that evokes the rich heritage of the region, but at the same time reflects the increasingly cosmopolitan feel of the Valley,” says Brett Sundstrom, general manager of Xona.

Insider Golf Access

But the real appeal of Xona Suites is the resort’s onsite golf concierge service. Xona has a team of golf experts with access to tee times at 56 golf courses in the Scottsdale and Phoenix area. And eight of those golf courses are private clubs that out-of-town visitors would otherwise have no access to—score!

During a recent short, but enjoyable trip to Xona, I was able to sample three courses that provided a snapshot of the different golfing options in the area.

The first was the eco-sensitive Sanctuary Golf Course at Westworld.

“Sanctuary is the very first Audubon International Signature golf course in the vallery, says Tom Patrick, former vice-president of SunCor Golf, which developed the course.

Working with the Audubon International Institute ensured that the course was developed within a wildlife “sanctuary” which allows for the sustenance of native plant and animal species.

And if the rattlesnake that crossed our path on the 11th hole is any indication, the sanctuary appears to be working.

Next up was the well-known Monument Course at the Troon North Golf Club. Troon is a “must play” on any golfer’s trip to the Phoenix-Scottsdale area.

The Tom Weiskopf-designed course has been recognized by no less than Golf Digest, GOLF Magazine and Travel & Leisure Golf as the No. 1 Daily Fee Course in Arizona. Need I say more?

Lastly, I got to experience one of the private club options that Xona makes available to its guests. Superstition Mountain is located just east of Apache Junction and has a $15,000 initiation fee, with annual dues of $8,400, for those who wish to become a member.

On the day I played this immaculate course, the greens were running at 12 on the stimp metre.

“It’s a ‘slow green’ day,” the marshal said to us as we left for the first tee. I wasn't sure if he was joking.