By Angela Fairhurst
Only 30 minutes from the Tucson Arizona airport to the foothills of the Tortolita Mountains in Marana, one is transported to a place of spiritual beauty, the RITZ-CARLTON DOVE MOUNTAIN. The area was once inhabited by the indigenous Hohokam people and has more Saguaro cacti than anywhere else in the state.
ARCHITECTURE & DECOR
Inspired by the rich surroundings, the resort was designed with panoramic views for an authentic desert experience. Inside and out and showcasing the connection to the landscape, stone and metal are integral elements to the design. Natural materials such as flagstone and quartzite as well as historical artifacts such as geodes and quartz crystal are also used. This creates a casual, understated elegance, complimenting and reflecting the culture and the surrounding environment. Warm earth tones and handcrafted architectural and design details fill the rooms, making for an authentic Arizona experience.
SERVICE
The attention to detail in service is impressive. The complementary shoe shine, the cold waters for the car ride, and the fact that everyone seems to know your name, impeccable!
THE RITZ-CARLTON SPA, DOVE MOUNTAIN
The 17,000 square-foot Spa is eco-holistic and designed around the balancing of elements of air, fire, earth, and water honoring the indigenous outdoor Sonoran lifestyle. They use healing sacred stones to nurture, restore and enrich the experience. Here there is a peaceful adult pool, only over 18 allowed. This is a romantic place to relax to the waterfalls, bask under the shaded umbrellas or sit on the steps of the pool while still enjoying the Arizona warmth.
THE FOOD
There are four restaurants on property, a good offering for a variety of dining experiences. Try CORE Kitchen and Wine Bar for True American cuisine; Ignite the hotel’s fire themed lobby-lounge including a sushi bar every Thursday; Cayton’s Burger Bistro for regional craft beers as well as signature entrees; and Turquesa Latin Grill specializing in premium tequilas hand-crafted margaritas and cocktails.
THE GOLF CLUB & OTHER ACTIVITIES AT DOVE MOUNTAIN
The resort is home to a 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature Design course. Nestled against the Tortolita Mountain range, the challenging course blends the characteristics of the mountainside terrain into its layout. Not a golfer, no worries. Choose from mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, eco jeep touring, cattle-penning, stargazing, tennis or petroglyph searching.
Because of the amazing scenery and year-round weather, the Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain makes for a relaxing getaway anytime.
