With it's combination of stunning desert scenery, award-winning resorts and world class attractions, Scottsdale is the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway. Whether you're planning a weekend trip or a honeymoon extravaganza, here we suggest the best places to cozy up with your significant other during your Scottsdale visit.

Old world elegance sets the tone for romance at the Royal Palms Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, Arizona. — Photo courtesy of Royal Palms Resort & Spa

Rekindle the fires of love at Scottdale's fairy tale resort

Named one of the "Top 50 Romantic Retreats" in the world by Travel + Leisure magazine, the Royal Palms Resort & Spa in Scottsdale is a marvel of sculpted gardens, meandering stone pathways and whimsical statuary. Fireplaces with cozy sitting areas, award-winning spa and dining, and a distinctly European flair make the Royal Palms an idyllic setting for couples in love.

This is one resort that takes romance seriously: the Royal Palms keeps a "Director of Romance" on the staff who is charged with expertly choreographing wedding proposals, anniversary parties, and of course, fabulous weddings.

Explore the desert on horseback on a romantic couples ride across the scenic Sonoran Desert. — Photo courtesy of Scottsdale CVB/Windwalker Expeditions

Partner up for a leisurely horseback ride through the desert

Take a break from Scottsdale's cosmopolitan side for a relaxing couples horseback riding session over the rambling (and quite beautiful) Sonoran Desert landscape. There are many horseback riding stables that cater to visitors. For private tours, try Windwalker Expeditions in Cave Creek (located just north of town), specializing in guided horseback riding expeditions led by working professionals who own their own horses and know both traditional English and Western riding disciplines.

Bond with your significant other during a relaxing ride through the desert brush-dotted hills north of Scottsdale. Make sure to dress appropriate, drink plenty of water during the warm months, and prepare yourself for a fun, eye-opening ride across some of the prettiest desert in Arizona.

Indugle in an unforgettable couple's massage at the award-winnign Joya Spa at Montelucia Resort & Spa in Scottsdale. — Photo courtesy of Joya Spa - Montelucia Resort & Spa

Unwind with a deluxe massage for two

Located at the posh Montelucia Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, the award-winning Joya Spa is famous for its dramatic views of iconic Camelback Mountain. You and your significant other will want to linger before or after your treatment on the spa's dramatic rooftop pool lounge, which affords excellent views of the city and mountains. Enjoy a relaxing couple's massage side by side in the soothing environs of Joya, where the tinkle of soft music and water evoke the calming sounds of nature. Joya Spa also offers an extensive menu of spa services, including specialty facials, hypnotherapy, meditation, and even Tarot card readings. The selection of massages are impressive: you and your partner can choose from traditional Swedish to cranial-sacral to lymphatic treatments.

Before booking your Scottsdale romantic getaway, check with your favorite destinations to see what kind of seasonal couple packages are available. Many of the city's top resorts cater to couples and frequently offer getaway specials built for two.