When selecting a venue for a staycation, vacation, wedding, or business trip in Tucson, there are several categories to consider: world-class resorts, mid-grade hotel chains, motels, and campgrounds.
And then there is...Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort.
Located on 34 acres at 5501 N. Hacienda Del Sol Road (Sunrise & Swan area), Hacienda del Sol is a historic gem of a property with breathtaking views of the Catalinas and a charming intimate atmosphere.
Originally built by a wealthy family in 1929, Hacienda Del Sol was later set up as a boarding school for young ladies in the 1940s. Elite families from the east coast would send their daughters to live and learn in Arizona. Later, the ranch became a resort where many famous celebrities have stayed over the years including John Wayne, Clark Gable, Howard Hughes, and Katherine Hepburn.
Don't forget to bring your camera because there are plenty of picturesque spots - vibrant flowers in full bloom, abundant cacti, perfectly manicured green lawns, bubbling fountains, interesting pots, and noteworthy architectural details.
Rooms range in price from $149-$650/night, depending on size of room (standard guestroom, suite, or private casita) and season of stay. The casitas are especially nice if you are traveling with a large family or group. The casitas are like a mini home with a kitchenette (refrigerator, microwave, sink, and dishes), dining table, sunken bath tub with jets, private patio, and carport. The warm and inviting decor includes adobe-colored tiles, handcrafted mesquite wooden furniture, and desert-inspired artwork.
The newest rooms at Hacienda Del Sol are the Catalina Rooms (added in March 2016). Gorgeous decor and styling! Every Catalina room has a patio with spectacular views of the mountains or cityscape; most have both views and six have private, outdoor showers. If available, we highly recommend that you ask to be booked in a Catalina.
Winter rates are steep because of the spectacular weather so stealing away sometime between late May and mid-September might be your best bet.
Unlike many resorts in big cities, Hacienda Del Sol offers free convenient parking, complimentary water bottles in every room, free WiFi, free admission to the nearby JCC Fitness Center, and free coffee in the mornings.
Other amenities of the resort include two on-site swimming pools (both are open 24 hours) and on-site dining at The Grill. For an additional cost, guests can also elect to receive spa services or to enjoy a leisurely horseback ride through the desert.
As for the smallest of guests, kids will enjoy taking a quick hike down to the stables to pet the horses or dancing on the green grass in the inner courtyard.
Note that there is a small service charge ($29 per room per night) which includes the following:
Hacienda Del Sol has two restaurants on-site.
The Grill is an upscale fine dining restaurant with breathtaking views and a gourmet New American menu (using ingredients from an on-site organic garden). Appetizers are $10-$18, entrees are $29-$90, sides are $10, and desserts are $10-$18. Over 700 wines are also available for pairing with your meal. Don't miss Sunday Brunch at The Grill, every Sunday from 9:30am to 2:00pm, $42/person. Delicious entrees and homemade desserts, plus bottomless mimosas, in a relaxing and romantic environment.
Terraza Garden Patio & Lounge is the more casual option, with al fresco dining and live music. Enjoy appetizers ($10-$18), salads ($15-$17), and main entrees ($15-$21). Happy Hour is Monday through Thursday, 3-6pm.
A Children's Menu is available at both restaurants with $9 entrees (includes french fries, fresh fruit, or a green salad) and $4 desserts.
If you're planning a meeting or private dinner for under 12 people, you'll love the intelligent and aesthetic atmosphere of The Library. An absolutely gorgeous room with antique books and wood furniture.
As for weddings, you absolutely can't go wrong at this venue - lovely scenery, plenty of character, gourmet food, and a romantic place to honeymoon for the 1st night.
Don't forget to let the staff know if you're celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or job promotion. They're sure to make your stay extra special.
Although this is certainly a family-friendly property (Hacienda Del Sol is Preferred Family Certified), it is probably best suited for anniversaries, date nights, and couple getaways.
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