5. Miraval, Tucson, Ariz.

Sun-kissed oasis
White adobe-style casitas sparkle in the sun; waterfalls and reflecting ponds flow past towering saguaro cactuses in meditation gardens. "Life in Balance" is the theme here and everything, from the fitness to the pampering, espouses the Zen concept of mindfulness. This can mean balancing atop a 25-foot pole strapped to a harness before taking the Quantum Leap, aimed at building trust and overcoming fear, or improving energy circulation via the Zero Balancing treatment. Or get "balanced" by a horse who's smarter than Mr. Ed. As you groom him during Equine Experience, he responds with behavior that sheds light on your true nature.

Other balancing acts include guided meditative hikes and trail rides into the rugged foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains; customized fitness programs in a gleaming fitness facility with a six-lane lap pool, and personal consultations with fitness instructors, nutritionists or golf pros.

Afterward, quiet your soul with a hot-stone massage, sand painting or Native American storytelling, then savor low-fat spa cuisine (papaya and ricotta cheese pancakes; grape leaves stuffed with grilled salmon and sea scallops) served in two elegant restaurants overlooking the star-spangled desert.

Details: From $365 per night, double occupancy. Includes meals, lodging, activities and one treatment. Call (800) 825-4000 or visit www.miravalresort.com.