Sunny Hacienda del Sol in Tucson, AZ

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 

Courtesy of Hacienda del Sol

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