Tanque Verde Ranch Resort
For a dude ranch experience, or if you just want to be as close to Tanque Verde as possible, the Tanque Verde Ranch Resort delivers. The ranch has a variety of lodgings to choose from: private casitas, guestrooms and the Sonoran Suites, which have private patios and fireplaces and can accommodate three to eight people.
Just east of Tucson, the resort offers sunrise, sunset and half-day hikes with a guide; or go on your own and explore the Rincon Mountains. There are level hikes as well as elevation-gaining hikes.
For cyclists, there are over 600 acres to enjoy for advanced riders to beginners. The ranch even offers a guide, a bike, and helmet and gloves for those who want to try cycling for the first time or others who just didn't take their mountain bikes with them.
For fishing enthusiasts, there is an on-site catch-and-release lake for those who enjoy the thrill of that nibble and tug on the line. The ranch provides instruction for people new to the sport or would like a few pointers to improve their fish-luring capabilities.
Tanque Verde Ranch Resort
14301 E. Speedway Blvd.
Tucson, AZ 85748
tanqueverderanch.com
Hacienda del Sol
The Hacienda del Sol offers luxury with outdoor ruggedness. The hotel is in the foothills of the Santa Catalina mountains, which ring the Tanque Verde Valley, and with 30 rooms to choose from, there is a little something for everyone. In private casitas, suites and guest rooms there are plush robes, free Wi-Fi and spectacular views.
Hiking is right outside the doors of this ranch resort; experienced hikers can tackle Finger Rock Canyon. Cyclists can visit Mount Lemmon and attempt the Sky Island Parkway, with twists, turns, switchbacks and breathtaking views of the Tucson area.
Mount Lemmon also features skiing during the winter in the town of Summerhaven. This is the country's southernmost destination for skiing and offers beautiful views in the Coronado National Forest. There is even a half-pipe for snowboarders.
Hacienda Del Sol
4955 N. Hacienda Del Sol Road
Tucson, AZ 85718
haciendadelsol.com
Westin La Paloma Resort
For the golfing enthusiast, a stay at the Westin La Paloma resort is in order. Located in the Santa Catalina mountains, this resort offers something for everyone. There are spa services, and every room offers a private terrace or balcony. This resort is for those who want to be pampered after a day hiking, cycling or golfing.
The Westin La Paloma boasts a 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course and is available only to hotel guests and members of the La Paloma Country Club. The course is maintained with reclaimed water and native vegetation to keep with the surrounding beauty of Southern Arizona and stay within the means of the desert.
If golf isn't what draws you to this resort, then maybe it's being near Mount Lemmon, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum or the Saguaro National Park, which offer the area's best places for cycling, hiking and birding.
The Westin La Paloma Resort
3800 E. Sunrise Drive
Tucson, AZ 85718
westinlapalomaresort.com
