- Hotel Website: The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain
- Location: Google Maps
- Book: Check availability
- Room Type: Canyon View – 1 Bedroom Suite, 635sqft/57sqm, Canyon view
- Review Score: Results of our review
- Hotel Fact: The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain is home to a unique and deeply meaningful nightly tradition. As the sun sets, a Native American flautist performs a beautiful serenade on the patio of the Ignite Lobby Lounge. This performance, known as the “Spirit of Adventure” gathering, is a daily ceremony that honors the land and the history of the Hohokam people who once inhabited the area. It’s a truly special and memorable way to conclude the day, and it highlights the resort’s commitment to celebrating its spectacular Sonoran Desert surroundings.
A Breathtaking Desert Retreat: The hotel’s unique location, nestled in the Sonoran Desert with stunning mountain and cactus-filled landscapes, creates an immersive and tranquil escape.
Exceptional Service and Thoughtful Touches: From a seamless check-in and an upgraded room to personalized welcome amenities, the staff goes above and beyond to make you feel special.
Amenities Galore: Whether you’re lounging by the expansive pool, playing lawn games, or enjoying a gourmet meal, there’s something for every type of traveler.
Culinary Delights: The on-site restaurants, including the secluded golf course dining with its incredible sunset views, offer a truly memorable culinary experience.
A Top-Tier Arizona Destination: This reviewer considers The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain one of the best hotels in all of Arizona, making it a must-visit for luxury seekers.
Desert Climate: Arizona’s Sonoran Desert experiences hot summers and surprisingly crisp to even freezing evenings in fall and winter. Pack swimwear for warmer months and layers for cooler nights. Sturdy hiking shoes are highly recommended if you plan to explore the extensive trail system.
Reservations are Key: To ensure availability, make reservations in advance for golf tee times, spa treatments, and any private guided hikes or stargazing experiences.
Resort Fee: A daily resort fee of $60 applies. This fee is comprehensive and includes valuable amenities such as valet parking, high-speed Wi-Fi, access to the driving range at The Golf Club, daily fitness and yoga classes, use of sporting facilities (tennis courts with equipment, bocce ball, horseshoes), evening mixology classes, daily newspapers, and 24-hour business center access.
Pet Policy: The resort is pet-friendly, but pets are allowed in specific rooms only, and surcharges apply. Be sure to confirm details when booking if you plan to bring your furry companion.
Check-in/Check-out: Standard check-in is at 4:00 PM, and check-out is by 11:00 AM. Mobile key entry is available for convenience.
Connecting Rooms: If traveling with family or a group, connecting/adjoining rooms are available upon request, subject to availability.
Accessibility: The resort is committed to accessibility, offering wheelchair-accessible rooms, parking, meeting spaces, spa, fitness center, and pools.
Family Amenities: Families will appreciate the dedicated kids’ check-in area, scavenger hunts, the Roadrunner Arcade, and the engaging Ritz Kids Ranger Program for children aged 5-12. The Aventura pool features a thrilling 235-foot water slide (with a 3-foot height requirement) and a splash pad. An in-room tent experience is also available for an additional fee with advance reservation.
🍸 Bar
🏖️ Beach
🧘 Fitness classes
🏋️ Gym
📋 Meeting rooms
🏊 Outdoor pool
🍽️ Restaurants
💆 Spa
The Luxe Atlas Rating
Design: 10/10
Vibe: 10/10
Romantic: 9/10
Air Conditioning: 10/10
Room: 10/10
Food: 9/10
Location: 9/10
Gym/Fitness: 10/10
Cleanliness: 10/10
Wow Factor: 9/10
Overall Experience: 9.6/10
A Review of The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain: An Unrivaled Desert Escape
The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain is truly a gem among luxury resorts in Arizona, setting a benchmark for upscale hospitality on the West Coast. From the moment you begin your drive towards this secluded oasis, the anticipation builds. The approach to the resort feels like entering a remote desert sanctuary, yet it’s conveniently located just a short drive north of Tucson, Arizona. Surrounded by the majestic Tortolita Mountains and an abundance of towering saguaro cacti, the landscape immediately transports you to a different world, offering a profound sense of tranquility and natural beauty. This isn’t just a hotel; it’s an immersive Sonoran Desert luxury experience.
Arrival and Ambiance
Upon arrival, the seamless Ritz-Carlton hospitality begins with a warm welcome from the valet and a beautifully appointed reception area. As Bonvoy Elite members, we were particularly delighted to find a thoughtful welcome package in our upgraded room: a lovely bottle of wine, delectable chocolates, and a personalized note from the hotel. Our room itself was a haven of comfort, boasting a stunning mountain view balcony that invited us to linger and soak in the breathtaking desert sunrises and sunsets. The generously sized rooms, typically ranging from 450 to 511 square feet, feature elegant hardwood floors, luxurious Frette linens, and spacious bathrooms with glassed-in showers and deep soaking tubs, all adorned with a rich Southwestern motif. The complimentary overnight shoeshine service is just one of many small touches that elevate the stay.
Service and Atmosphere
What truly sets this Marana resort apart is its quiet elegance. While some luxury properties might necessitate a butler service, the intimate and quaint atmosphere here means every need is effortlessly met without overt formality. Enjoying a handcrafted cocktail in the sophisticated lobby lounge, Ignite, is a delightful way to unwind, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and refined ambiance.
Pools and Relaxation
Venturing outside, the resort continues to impress with its unique desert experiences. A charming highlight is the resort’s resident desert tortoise, often seen near the back patio, a truly endearing sight that connects you with the local wildlife.
The outdoor pool area is a central hub of relaxation and fun. It’s not just large; it’s thoughtfully designed with three distinct swimming areas to cater to every preference. The Turquesa Pool offers an inviting infinity edge, while the Aventura Pool is a family favorite, featuring an exciting splash pad and the longest waterslide in Tucson at 235 feet – a guaranteed hit for kids and adults alike! For those seeking ultimate tranquility, the adults-only Spa Serenity Pool provides a peaceful retreat with a 10-foot tanning island. We spent a significant part of our day lounging by the pool, enjoying refreshing lunch bites and their excellent margaritas and cocktails. The unique shallow “wading” area with submerged lounge chairs is a fantastic touch, allowing you to cool off while still soaking up the Arizona sun.
Activities and Exploration
Beyond the pools, the resort offers an impressive array of outdoor activities in Arizona. The “fun park” for adults, complete with horseshoe throwing and other lawn games, provides a playful way to enjoy the sunshine. For the more adventurous, the resort boasts over 20 miles of pristine hiking trails in Tucson, ranging from leisurely strolls to challenging treks. You can explore ancient Hohokam petroglyphs, embark on a guided night hike to discover nocturnal desert creatures, or simply take in the stunning “Views and Vistas” of the Tortolita Mountains. Other activities include mountain biking, geocaching, bocce ball, and tennis on their Plexicushion System courts, with equipment readily available. Don’t miss the “Meet our Desert Friends” daily experience or the captivating private stargazing sessions, which truly highlight Tucson’s reputation as an astronomy capital. For golf enthusiasts, The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain is a premier Arizona golf resort. The Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course features 27 holes divided into three distinct nine-hole courses (Saguaro, Wild Burro, and Tortolita), offering challenging play amidst breathtaking desert landscapes. Having hosted the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship, it provides a championship-level experience for both seasoned pros and casual players. The complimentary shuttle service to the golf course makes access effortless, and the views, especially at sunset from Cayton’s Restaurant, are simply spectacular.On-Site Restaurants & Dining Hours
The culinary journey at The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain is as diverse and exquisite as its surroundings, offering a range of options for every palate and occasion.
CORE Kitchen & Wine Bar:
Cuisine: Upscale American cuisine with Sonoran and regional influences. Known for its fine dining, open kitchen, and romantic ambiance. They also offer a delightful prix-fixe market brunch on Sundays.
Breakfast: Daily, 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Dinner: Wednesday – Saturday, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Sunday Brunch: 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Wine Experience: Friday evenings at 5:00 PM (sommelier-led tasting with charcuterie).
Ignite:
Cuisine: An upscale lobby bar and lounge offering a seasonal menu with local ingredients, pub fare, and handcrafted signature cocktails. It also transforms into a sushi & sake bar on weekends. Perfect for a sophisticated evening drink or light bite.
Hours: Primarily an evening lounge; specific hours vary but generally open from late afternoon into the evening.
Turquesa Latin Grill:
Cuisine: Vibrant Latin fare and locally inspired plates served in a lively poolside setting. Famous for its premium tequilas, hand-crafted margaritas, and signature cocktails.
Hours:
Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Cayton’s Restaurant (at The Golf Club):
Cuisine: A casual yet refined clubhouse restaurant rooted in Southern tradition, offering gourmet burgers, shakes, signature entrées, and an extensive selection of regional craft beers. The sunset views over the golf course from here are unparalleled, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed dinner away from the main resort bustle, as we experienced.
Hours: Typically open for lunch and early dinner, aligning with golf course operations (Golf Club open daily 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM). It’s best to check with the resort for precise dining hours.
To/Go Coffee Shop:
Offerings: Your go-to spot for specialty coffees and freshly baked goods, perfect for a quick breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Hours: Generally open mornings and early afternoons (exact hours vary).
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain is more than just a hotel; it’s a quintessential desert oasis hotel and a true masterpiece in the Arizona landscape. Its blend of breathtaking natural beauty, impeccable service, diverse amenities, and exceptional dining makes it one of our absolute favorite hotels in the entire state. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family-friendly resort in Tucson, or a golf adventure, this property delivers an unforgettable luxury travel Arizona experience. Highly recommended for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the serene beauty and refined elegance of the Sonoran Desert.
