We enjoyed our stay at Westin Kierland Villas last year (2007), and purchased an "Explorer Package" because we were actually considering purchasing, but couldn't afford it last year. Unfortunately, we were far less impressed this year. On the good side, the front desk staff was friendly and efficient. The 1-bedroom villa was clean (albeit small) and everything was in working order. The McDowell Restaurant/Store was well-stocked and menu items were generous and tasty.

The negatives, however, outweighed the positives this year. (1) The "activity pool" was very crowded and very loud at all times (2) the "relaxation pool" was fine during the day, but was over-run with noisy teenagers and children after 8PM (when the "activity pool" closed). (3) There were frequently no clean towels available at either pool by mid-day (4) Only one computer functioned in the business center, and waiting to print boarding passes for our flight was interminable (5) Barbecue facilities were limited, and wait times to get a grill were long (6) Charges for childrens' program activities were very high ($50 per child for a 3-hour "kids night out" are double what we've seen in Marriott and other timeshares)

On a side note (which did not factor into my 3-star rating), I'd strongly advise AGAINST the "Explorer Package." We bought it for $2,000 last year - which included a return 4 night stay and a promise to apply the full $2,000 to the purchase price should we choose to buy during the 18 month period of the "package." We were promised a large one-bedroom ("Premium" one-bedroom) of the 2BR lock-out (950 sq ft w/full kitchen). What we got was the small 1BR (500 sq ft w/limited kitchen), and we were told on-site that that's "all you get" with the Explorer Package. I met people on-site who were staying for other reduced-rate promotional packages who were provided with the large 1BR. It didn't make me feel too "special" that I paid a lot more and wound up with very close quarters for my wife, me and our 2 daughters. And this is OFF-SEASON time in the height of August heat!!! Furthermore, during the sales pitch, we discovered that only a percentage of the $2,000 would be applied to a purchase. Overall, we felt "duped" by the whole thing, and decided not to purchase.

This resort is one of our favorite places to stay! This is not a 5 star HOTEL property (not the same level of service)--but with the addition of room service they are getting close! Not sure why the previous reviewer experienced noise, but maybe it was a flight pattern that time of year(?) We have enjoyed visits in September, February and March--and have never noticed the planes really. They DO seem to use the leaf blower here on multiple days.

This resort is in the middle of local area action, so it is not as quiet as The Boulders for example (or something equally remote). But it also is not a hotel overrun with convention crowds either. One thing unusual here is that some buildings/balconies face only Northerly, others face only Westerly/sunset. There is also the 'activity' pool & the 'quiet' pool--so ask for what you prefer (depending on season?) It is a beautiful property all around (with really good on-site food) and we love the supreme accessibility to other area features. I should mention that the rooms are in the usual Westin contemporary design --high quality, but not a lot of local flavor (see photos).

This timeshare is very upscale in line with Westin Hotels. The rooms are very nicely appointed, very modern. The two bedroom lockoff is very private for two couples. The location of the resort is very close to great restaurants, shopping, and golf.

However, the resort was very noisy. Our room was located by the recreation pool which can get loud at times. The staff was very loud in the morning. The resort is located by the Scottsdale Airport and planes/helicopters were flying constantly. Not a good place for peace and quiet. We would not come back to this resort because of the location.

As an owner this resort is 5 STAR all the way. Right in the middle of Scottsdale with Shopping and Fine Dining within walking distance at the Kierland Commons.

They must be doing something right, this resort is where the AFC Team is staying with their families during the SuperBowl Week Jan 27th thru Feb 3rd in 2008! Now that is 5 Star!!

One word.................

Amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We loved the Westin Kierland Villas. Villas are beautiful and spacious. Pools and grounds were wonderful. Enjoyed using the resort's pools, lazy river and spa which are available to villa guests. Kierland Commons was within walking distance which provided 12 restaurants and 50 high end retailers. Gorgeous mountain and golf course views . Grocery & Target nearby. A perfect family vacation for Spring Break, Christmas or Thanksgiving.

Just returned from a week stay at the resort.

Would give the resort 5 stars, but construction is ongoing and is bothersome to a degree.

Service was outstanding. While poolside, attendents would deliver pitchers of water to each party. Full use of Westin Kierland Pool as well.

Room amenities are fantastic.

What a beautiful resort!!! Second to none. We toured it November 18/04. Nicer than most homes I've seen. Would recomend it to anyone. The two bedroom lockoff can be used as 2 one bedrooms. The smaller of the two is still quite large and has a queen bed and small bar type kitchen. Still very beautiful and quite spacious. The other bedroom has a king bed and is HUGE, and has a full kitchen. Either unit would be great. The resort is located on the Kierland golf course and next door to the Westin Hotel and Spa which you have full access to. Also close to the Kierland Commons so if you didn't have a vehicle you would be within walking distance to the Kierland Commons which have beautiful shops and wonderful resaurtants.

This is a beautiful resort! I have never seen rooms so tastefully decorated and the view from our room of the golf course and mountains was incredible. The staff was courteous and very willing to help with anything. The pool complex was beautiful and the grounds are fascinating. The resort is located within waking distance of Kierland Commons, an upscale shopping complex with lots of great restaurants. There is also a spa nearby. I highly recommend this resort.

Absolutely beautiful and all the staff was so helpful. The pool and amenities are first class. The Kierland Commons across the street is a full day adventure of shopping, eating and strolling. Overlooking the golf course. A must stay at in the Phoenix-Scottsdale area. Grand Opening next week-open for only a month and it is next to the new Westin Hotel.