Marriott's Canyon Villas at Desert Ridge

Unit was a large 2bedroom 2 bath unit (not a lock off but a true two bedroom). Since there was only two of us we rattled around in it. Very clean, but for the first time, as a Marriott owner (desert Springs) I was disappointed in the living room furnishings and rug. They were dirty and slightly worn. The way the kitchen is laid out when you enter the unit there is only a small space for a passage into the main area of the living room, so that 10 or 12 Square foot area is highly trafficked. While it had been vacuumed it was slightly worn and the dirt was simply ground into it. Ditto the main couch; the edges were dirty and slightly worn. I do not wish to push this too far, because everything had been cleaned and vacuumed,and very servicable, but the upholstered furnishings are in need of replacement.

Kitchen area was quite large, and the breakfast bar very wide with lots of space to sit and eat. Plenty of dishes and utensils. Check in was a breeze. Staff was friendly and helpful. Concierge service was friendly but the ladies depended upon their computers and directions stored in the memory. We are hikers so asked for info on hikes in the area, of which there are many. unlike the Sheraton Desert Oasis Marriott staff while willing could not offer any personalized service other than the preprinted sheets.

The resort grounds ate extensive, attractive and well maintained. Canyon Village is a true resort, No need to leave the grounds. However it is close to the 101 beltway so very easy to hop on the beltway and get to main attractions. Easy to get around by car.

Altho we did not participate they seemed to have many resort activities. In addition the resort is surrounded by two golf courses and within walking distance of the very large Marriott resort hotel. So no lack of things to do. Of course since this is a 5 star Marriott hotel you pay for everything. We ate in the lounge one evening and a "cone" of chips and a coke and a draft beer cost us $25.00 during happy hour. Beer was good, and coke is coke; guess we paid for the ambience which was great.

This is a great place for anyone, couples, families etc.

We've stayed on two different occasions in late winter and had a great time. There's so much to do in Scottsdale from hiking to dining. The resort is minutes away by shuttle or a 5 minute walk. We liked it so much we bought a third week.

Visited: July 2010- This was my families first stay at the timeshare villa side of the JW Marriott's resort and it did not disappoint. Visited JW Marriott resort side back in 2007, so I already knew how I loved the resort side. Check in was quick, easy and included lots of detailed info to guide us on the villa side and resort side.

We stayed in a 2/2 villa and it was beautiful and very clean. We thought that no one stayed in the villa before because the place was immaculate. So, Arriving in July in 115 degree heat was not as bad as I thought. We went straight to the pool (with our shoes on), so between the water and pool bar drink specials we forgot about the heat. We dined at the resort a couple of nights, but mostly went to the awesome shopping and entainment center across the street. Its got to be 5 to 6 acres in size. Great grocery store there too. We did not do much, but swim, eat and sleep. There are tons of things to do, but we do that everyday of our lives. Our vacations call for R&R. Nanny recommendation from front desk was great and reliable for a couple of nights our without young kids. Villa Highlight: The awesome 20 minute showers that you never want to end. Water pressure is like getting a massage.

This place is the best. We have owned here for four years. Money well spent! We stay in a 2BD villa, and the accommodations could not be better. First class all the way. The lock off units are great for a couple. Having the villa gives you the full kitchen for eating in occasionally if you choose. The pools at the Villas are great. There is a snack bar, where you can order from a room service type menu and a full bar as well. Access to the JW across the street (shuttle provided) is the capper. Lazy River, Waterslide, and poolside drink/food service are the best. There are several great restaurants at the hotel as well (Roy's, Meritage, etc.) Across the street is Desert Ridge Shopping Mall that has an Albertson's and several chain type restaurants of all sorts. Retail shopping as well. It is impossible to not have a great time here. We have gone in July and August when it has been 110+. When you are poolside, you don't notice that much. It is hot, but not unbearable depending on your activity level. You are a short drive from Scottsdale, where there are even more great restaurants and shopping. We have not even thought about trading our "Gold" week. This is a trip that we look forward to every year.