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Planning Your Trip

Arizona’s desert climate makes it a year-round getaway. Summers are extremely hot, but fall and winter evenings amid the mountains can be crisp or even freezing. There is a lot to experience at the resort, from its three swimming pools to its three golf courses, so you will want to arrive prepared for your romantic weekend or family vacation.

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WEEKEND GETAWAY

There’s so much to do in this sun-soaked desert destination, a weekend might not seem like enough time, but you can cover a lot of ground with the right guidance on what to pack.

 

 

 

 

 

  • While the Tucson area is known for its nearly perpetual sunshine, temperatures can dip into the chilly zone during winter. Be sure to bring along warmer layers for evenings spent outdoors.
  • Hikers of all levels will want to pack a pair of trail-ready shoes — The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain is nestled in the foothills of the Tortolita Mountains, making it the perfect starting point for a rigorous hike or an easy morning stroll.
  • In the warmer months, you’ll want to spend time poolside, so be sure to pack a bathing suit or two, along with some stylish cover-ups to take you from the pool to the patio for happy hour.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

Home to forests of saguaros, hidden waterfalls and stunning mountain peaks, the Sonoran Desert is a truly unique outdoor paradise. Whether you’re hiking through a national park, cycling through town. Here’s what to pack to make the most of your stay.

 

 

 

  • For trekking through the desert’s rugged terrain, leave the sandals and casual sneakers at home and opt for a sturdy pair of hiking boots instead.
  • Weather in the desert can mean crisp mornings and warm afternoons; pack convertible hiking pants that you can change from pants to shorts.
  • For birding or wildlife spotting, bring along binoculars. The region is home to unique flora and fauna that are worth a closer look.
Desert golf course with water features

GOLF GETAWAY

The combination of world-class golf resorts, 300-plus days of annual sunshine and stunning desert landscapes make Tucson a dream destination for expert and novice golfers alike.

 

 

 

 

 

  • Bring your own set of clubs (and gloves) if you plan to book multiple tee times.
  • Standard golf attire for men consists of collared shirts, slacks and golf shorts while women may do the same, or wear dresses and skirts that fall below mid-thigh.
  • A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen with SPF will help keep you protected from the Sonoran sun, which can be intense in summer.
Don't Forget:

If visiting in the warm summer months, be sure to pack a few swimwear options. You’ll likely want to spend lots of time by the resort pool.

Chances are if you’re arriving from Phoenix or a even city more far-flung, you will want to spend most of your time experiencing the resort. Championship golf, a holistic spa treatment inspired by the desert, children’s activities and outdoor excursions should all be arranged prior to arrival.

Tee Times

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Legendary golf champion Jack Nicklaus took advantage of the High Sonoran Desert setting to integrate strategy and variety into his Signature Design Tucson golf resort’s landscape at The Golf Club at Dove Mountain. Home to 27 holes with unique challenges and distinct character, the course is a must-play for any golf aficionado. If you’re looking to work on your skills, private lessons and group clinics are available and can be tailored to any skill level.  

OUTDOOR EXCURSIONS

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The Sonoran Desert is home to hiking and biking aplenty — just step out your backdoor at The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain and onto a trailhead for a vigorous morning hike. To go even deeper into the desert, though, book a 4x4 tour with Trail Dust Jeep Tours or a horseback ride with Tucson Mountain Stables. No matter which vehicle you choose, you’ll enjoy a rugged ride into the heart of the desert, where wildlife and ancient petroglyphs are easily spotted.

CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES

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Tap into your little ones’ innate curiosity by introducing them to the natural wonders and rich cultural traditions at The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain. Kiddos ages 5–12 can join in on a unique and exciting journey of discovery with the Dove Mountain Ritz Kids Ranger Program. The daylong agenda includes things like learning how life thrives in the desert and reveling in stories by Dr. Seuss and Shel Silverstein.

Spa Appointments

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Recognized as the No. 1 spa in Arizona by the readers of Conde Nast Traveler magazine, a trip to The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Dove Mountain is a journey in and of itself. Treatments are inspired by the time-honored traditions of the Sonoran Desert, and peace and serenity manifest in services like the Gemstone Healing Massage and Desert Gemstone Ritual.

The resort offers the perfect destination for a quick weekend getaway from Phoenix or an annual family vacation. Hikes amid cacti forests and hidden waterfalls, a meal worthy of Tucson’s UNESCO World City of Gastronomy title, a gemstone-inspired spa treatment and an afternoon swim are among the itineraries designed by the resort’s local experts.

Eco-Adventures

Home to forests of cactuses, hidden waterfalls and stark mountain peaks, the Sonoran Desert is a truly unique outdoor paradise. With nearly 300 days of sunshine each year, there are countless opportunities to connect with the land. Whether you’re hiking through a national park, mountain biking into a canyon or stargazing at the vast night skies, the desert’s rugged beauty is sure to inspire awe.  

 

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Under the skies of an early evening, a flautist plays for the resort's Sunset Celebration

Family Vacation Fun

With vast landscapes begging to be explored, nearly 300 days of sunshine every year and a rich sense of culture and history, Tucson, Arizona, is the perfect destination for a family getaway. Bring out their inner adventurer with hikes through the sprawling desert, where nature’s unique flora and fauna are the star of the show.  

 

 

 

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The canyon surrounding Dove Mountain at sunrise.

72 HOURS IN TUCSON

A few days in the desert is all you need to experience the power of gemstones with healing spa rituals, discover why Tucson is the first US city to be named UNESCO’s Capital of Gastronomy and explore historical landmarks including the San Xavier Mission. As evening approaches, settle in for a margarita and a serenade by a local flutist, or hike the canyon to catch one of Arizona’s colorful sunsets.  

 

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