Location
Tucson, Arizona

Low-slung adobe buildings, brick pathways and garden courtyards give this longtime Tucson landmark the feel of a private desert estate rather than a conventional hotel. Set on five acres in idtown with the Santa Catalina Mountains on the horizon, the property has evolved over decades from a residence into an elegant retreat while retaining its distinctly Old Pueblo character. Shaded patios, mature desert plantings and quiet corners for reading or lingering over a drink create a sense of separation from the city despite being minutes from downtown and the University of Arizona.

We’ll stay in the hotel’s casitas, housed in the property's original buildings dating from the 1930s through the 1970s. Featuring king-sized beds, wood-beamed ceilings, kiva-style fireplaces, original tilework and pedestal sinks, these suites reflect the property's history. Modern comforts include Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, coffee station, climate control and workspace. Bathrooms in some historic casitas are more compact, a tradeoff for their preserved character and architectural details.

Cielos, the on-site restaurant, serves contemporary Southwestern cuisine in dining rooms and patios framed by fireplaces and desert gardens. The restaurant is known for its margaritas, daily happy hour, weekend brunch and Saturday evening live music. Additional amenities include a heated outdoor pool, event spaces, a gift shop and a collection of courtyards and gardens that encourage guests to spend time outdoors.