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A close neighbor of upscale, happening Scottsdale but with a population density of only about 15,000 (just 340 people per square kilometer of luxuriant, scenic desert), Paradise Valley truly lives up to its name. The Town of Paradise Valley is a haven for fans of the great outdoors and of peaceful, relaxing living.
The Landscape
Along with some of the loveliest unspoiled desert vegetation within the Valley of the Sun, two of the area's largest and most beautiful mountains contribute to Paradise Valley's unique and mysterious terrain. Camelback and Mummy Mountains provide hundreds of acres of preserved natural landscape that are perfect for hiking, climbing, and simply enjoying the breathtaking views.
At nearly 3,000 feet, Camelback Mountain gets its name from its unmistakable two-humped batrian camel shape, though Paradise Valley residents have an even better view of its other locally famous feature: the "Praying Monk" formation extending from the north side of one of the peaks. The Echo Canyon Recreation Area, a 76-acre park that surrounds the mountain, is the result of 1968 preservation efforts by former resident Senator Barry Goldwater. Camelback Mountain has been named one of Phoenix´s 30 "Points of Pride," a list of landmarks and attractions said to best represent what the Valley has to offer both residents and visitors.
Though it's not quite as tall (2260 feet), Mummy Mountain is larger in terms of untouched desert land: 320 acres protected by the Mummy Mountain Preserve Trust.
Like its cousin, the mountain was named for its profile: it is said to resemble an Egyptian mummy lying down..
Recreation
In addition to great hiking and climbing, residents of Paradise Valley enjoy some of the finest golfing in the world, choosing from nearly 100 public and private courses within fifteen miles of the center of the town. The unbeatable spa services are another worldwide attraction, offering exquisite amenities in one of the most relaxing settings imaginable. The Sanctuary at Camelback Mountain specializes in Asian treatments such as acupuncture, Thai massage and reflexology, shiatsu, reiki, and luk pra kope, a massage with medicinal herbs. Or try a Native Hot Stone Massage at the Camelback Inn, then relax in a lounge chair next to your private poolside cabana with a chilled aromatherapy face cloth and a stunning view of Mummy Mountain.
Dining
Though nearby Scottsdale provides a tantalizing array of four-star restaurants and hotspots, there´s plenty to keep Paradise Valley residents closer to home. The town offers something to suit any mood: casual to elegant, basic to gourmet.
For an informal but delicious Mexican meal, try La Parilla Suiza, a Mexico City-style restaurant featuring a variety of grilled meat, seafood, and vegetable dishes and fresh salsas in a contemporary atmosphere. For the more festive appetite, the Camelback Inn's Navajo Restaurant offers a nightly all-you-can-eat prime rib and shrimp buffet. And for four-star dining sophistication, try Lon's at The Hermosa Inn. This authentic Arizona hacienda, once the home of cowboy artist Lon Megargee, serves unique American cuisine such as Texas Wild Boar Chop on Sweet Potato Risotto with Spinach, and Osso Buco on Kalamata Olive Risotto with Provencal Vegetables.
A Final Note
As you continue to research the Paradise Valley area, don't be confused by the small northeast Phoenix area of the same name. Paradise Valley Community College, Paradise Valley Hospital, Paradise Valley Mall, and Paradise Valley Golf Course are all a part of the Phoenix village of Paradise Valley, as is Paradise Valley Unified School District (residents of the Paradise Valley near Scottsdale attend Scottsdale Unified School District).
To learn more about living in Paradise Valley, call me at 602.620.6267 or email me.
Joe Janus, Paradise Valley real estate agent and REALTOR®
Specializing in Homes with Exceptional Style
in Phoenix, Scottsdale and Paradise Valley, Arizona 
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