Have you ever arrived at a hotel and feel like it is like visiting an affluent friend’s home? That’s the feeling I got from Hacienda del Sol; bright, cheery and welcoming with eclectic colors, artwork and spaces to greet guests at this Tucson, Arizona property. Beneath the bright desert sun warming the stucco walls and lush gardens, guests walk through a shaded gate and bubbling courtyard fountain to check into this Arizona experience.
Initially started in 1929 as a “girl’s only” desert retreat inspired by Spanish Colonial and Moorish architecture, Hacienda del Sol was converted into a guest ranch in 1948 and was host to notable Hollywood personalities from the silver screen. Privately purchased in 1995, the ranch has had extensive renovations and an extensive 1999 restoration to the ranch. Additional rooms have been added, as well as a lap pool, fitness center, and spa. Just shy of 100 guest rooms and suites, the resort boasts several pools, panoramic views, over 21,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor function space and private casitas with patios and carports. Rooms are seductively Sonoran so guests feel a real connection to the surrounding area and culture.
Walking through the grounds, I see quail scurrying across the walkway, hear music drifting on the air from live musicians playing in the restaurants, and take in the sunset. An ambling property, I suggest you take the time to soak in the character and essence of the grounds. 34 acres in all, the property is a refuge for desert wildlife and spectacular flowering flora and trees nestled in the Santa Catalina foothills. Included in the Historic Hotels of America and Preferred Hotels & Resorts Lifestyle collection, the property is primed for family travel and those wanting to experience a desert escape.
JustLuxe insider tips:
I suggest you rent your own car while in Tucson. While everything is relatively close with little traffic, renting a car will afford the flexibility of seeing nearby Saguaro National Park, the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum and local dining and shopping experiences. Parking is relatively easy and traffic light from the airport to downtown to the property.
If looking for an incredible fine dining experience off property, check out Studio Janos—which is available for 6-course private dinners celebrating the heritage of local flavors and culture, maximum of 12 guests.
Another off-premise dining establishment is BATA, which sources local ingredients for exceptional cuisine.
Whether strolling through the sculpture gallery, browsing the chef’s garden, enjoying the live music, or a cocktail at the bar, there’s a little something for everyone at Hacienda del Sol. For rates and reservations, visit www.haciendadelsol.com.
Courtesy of Hacienda del Sol
The entrance gate to Hacienda del Sol
Courtesy of Hacienda del Sol
The sprawling property from the air
Courtesy of Hacienda del Sol
Inner courtyard of Hacienda del Sol
Courtesy of Hacienda del Sol
Southwestern architecture
Courtesy of Hacienda del Sol
When the property was a girls only desert retreat
Courtesy of Hacienda del Sol
Enjoy the sunset, live music, and a libation on property
Courtesy of Hacienda del Sol
Arizona sunshine and southwestern architecture
Courtesy of Hacienda del Sol
King room
Courtesy of Hacienda del Sol
Double queen room
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Terraza Patio an idylic spot as the sun goes down
Courtesy of Hacienda del Sol
The Grill overlooking the property and mountains beyond
Courtesy of Hacienda del Sol
Come hungry to Hacienda del Sol
Courtesy of Hacienda del Sol
Stunning views from the dining room