Photo: Courtesy of the property
Active days in the sun, crisp evenings illuminated by a million stars, dramatic landscapes dotted with cacti and palm trees: Those are the ingredients for the quintessential desert getaway. And they’re exactly what you’ll find at Hacienda Del Sol, a luxury retreat in the Sonoran Desert just outside Tucson. Nestled in a valley with the Santa Catalina Mountains providing a dramatic backdrop, it delivers with elegant accommodations, excellent cuisine, and an overarching sense of well-being. Here, our full review.
The Look of Hacienda Del Sol
Southwestern sophistication. Hacienda Del Sol resembles a traditional Mexican inn, and it is indeed suffused with history: Founded in 1929 as a ranch school for the daughters of the wealthy, it later became a resort that catered to Hollywood stars (Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn enjoyed it for secluded assignations — and yes, you can book their casita). Adobe-style buildings are surrounded by lush gardens planted with cactus, bougainvillea, and seasonal flowers. Inside, expect hardwood floors, beamed ceilings, wood furniture handcrafted in Mexico, Talavera tiles, and crackling fireplaces.
Of the 59 rooms, suites, and casitas, the best are perhaps the newer Sonoran Rooms, which feature epic views of the mountains, 10-foot ceilings, and private patios, some equipped with outdoor showers.
The Vibe of Hacienda Del Sol
Relaxed and outdoors-focused. Both restaurants — The Grill, with its seasonal New American cuisine and award-winning wine list, and Terrazza, a more casual eatery with Southwestern-leaning fare — allow for alfresco dining. Most guests spend their days at the two pools or wandering the 34 acres of grounds, with interesting sculptures scattered among the plantings. In the evenings, a rotating roster of local musicians plays on the Terrazza patio. The solicitous staff ensures a stress-free stay.
Who Will Love Hacienda Del Sol
Guests looking for a luxurious and tranquil escape in the Arizona desert will find Hacienda Del Sol fits the bill.
Who Might Not Love Hacienda Del Sol
While families are welcome, there are not a lot of amenities catering to children (such as a kids club), and the overall vibe is more adult-oriented. And while there’s a small spa and fitness center, the resort is not as wellness-oriented as other Arizona properties.
Best Amenity at Hacienda Del Sol
The resort’s wine list has won accolades from Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast year after year, and the sommelier will happily guide you through the 800-bottle list, which includes a few Arizona wines.
What’s Included at Hacienda Del Sol
A nightly $35 resort fee covers Wi-Fi, valet services and gratuity, housekeeping gratuities, in-room bottled water, coffee service in the lobby, parking, and access to magazines and newspapers via the PressReader app.
Fees and Extra Costs You Should Know About at Hacienda Del Sol
The above-mentioned resort fee and local and state taxes and fees will add around 20-25% to the base rate.
How to Get a Deal at Hacienda Del Sol
Check out the hotel website’s Specials section to look for special offers, such as a fourth night free or credits for dining or beverages. Members of Preferred Hotels & Resorts I Prefer loyalty program receive a discount and preferable cancellation terms.
Sweet Season
Fall and spring — November and March in particular — bring both temperate weather (highs in the low 70s, lows in the low 50s) and shoulder season rates. Winter is peak season, and summer, while the cheapest time to visit Tucson, can be unbearably hot.
In the Neighborhood of Hacienda Del Sol
The hotel is located on the northern side of Tucson in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains, about 9 miles from downtown. Nearby activities include golf at Ventana Canyon, hiking in Finger Rock Canyon, and horseback riding.
Nearest Public Transportation to Hacienda Del Sol
While there is no public transportation, you can use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft; otherwise, most folks opt to rent a car.
Hacienda Del Sol is a charming, leisurely getaway in the Arizona desert.