Is This Tucson Luxury Resort the Best in the West?
By Tim Cotroneo
Loews Ventana Canyon Resort dispels the notion that one side of a hotel offers a much better view than the other. In fact, no matter which direction they look, all of the guests at this Tucson, AZ, luxury resort enjoy epic views of the Catalina Mountains, two Tom Fazio-designed golf courses, a waterfall, and sunscapes that are suitable for framing.
This 100-acre retreat was built not only with guest experiences in mind, but with a mandate to coexist with the Sonoran Desert. Before the resort opened in 1984, the original footprint was moved to accommodate a waterfall that was discovered on the north side of the acreage. This flowing 80-foot treasure provides guests with the dual pleasure of a unique balcony view, as well as the soothing sound of rushing water in the distance.
The resort’s story began with Developer Jonathan Tisch designing a world-class resort with the goal of embracing the desert plant and animal habitat. He wanted to build a resort that “appeared to belong in the desert.” Upon completion, Architectural Digest called this “the first environmentally conceived resort in North America.”
40 Years Young
Loews Ventana Canyon Resort recently celebrated its 40th anniversary. Leading up to this special occasion the resort went through an extensive multi-million-dollar renovation including room accents showcasing the colors of the desert.
The resort that guests flock to today still incorporates stunning sunrise to sunsets views from every angle of this 400-room property. What’s new at Loews Ventana Canyon includes the Lakeside Spa, the techno gym for fitness enthusiasts, the Ventana Heights Terrace for weddings and meetings, and the Kiva Patio for cozy outdoor gatherings.
Of course, the Loews Ventana Canyon Resort still nurtures the guests who helped start their resort tradition years ago. Managing Director Grant Dipman commented, “We are grateful for our repeat customers. We’ve had generations of families that come back year after year. They are the ones who have helped spread the word about what Ventana Canyon has to offer our new guests.”
Mountains of Trails
One of the reasons Dipman loves working at Loews Ventana Canyon is the plethora of trails that are within easy walking, biking, or driving distance. Dipman’s personal favorites are the biking trails.
“I try to hit the biking trails at least three times per week. Sabino Canyon is a great paved trail delivering striking views. Rillito River Path is another healthy option. It’s a 23 mile out and back trail,” Dipman said.
Each day one of the resort guides will lead guests on hiking tours. Nearby Sabino Canyon delivers a four-mile canyon tour with nine stops along the way. There’s even a picnic area, if you’d like to pack a lunch.
World-Class Mountain Golf
Famed golf course architect Tom Fazio designed The Mountain Course in 1984 and the Canyon Course in 1987. Golf enthusiasts love these championship layouts that get you up close to a mountain landscape that is second to none.
The Mountain Course’s third hole has an international reputation as a photographer’s dream. Just 107-yards, golfers need to clear a deep ravine to land on a green surrounded by rock on all four sides.
The Canyon Course weaves through the Sonoran Desert, while also presenting scenic canyons and the Catalina Mountains. The Canyon Course’s finishing hole features an island green with a gorgeous backdrop of a manmade waterfall and a tiered view of the resort.
Dine Like a Local
A favorite of both employees and guests is the resort’s Flavor by Loews program. Loews Ventana Canyon is proud to partner with local companies such as Tucson Tamale Company, Dragoon Brewing Company, and Barrio Bread. The Flavor program is an opportunity to support local entrepreneurs while experiencing some of Tucson’s finest ingredients.
Every Sunday, guests and locals flock to the resort’s outdoor grill to indulge in Blues, Brews, and BBQ Brunch. Local musicians serenade while barbecue fare is served. Enjoy a delicious menu of ribs, pork belly, salmon, shrimp, tuna, veggies, and specialty desserts. BB and B is a long-time resort favorite, so make your reservations in advance.
The Flying V restaurant is perched next to the fitness center, tennis and pickleball courts, and golf pro shop. This restaurant enjoys an elevated setting that overlooks the Canyon Course’s 18th green. Choose from scallops, seabass, filet mignon, lamb chops, an all-natural burger, and duck. A resort employee insider tip is that the Flying V is the best locale on the resort for witnessing a fabulous sunset.
What’s Your Pleasure
Tucson and Loews Ventana Canyon Resort is the ultimate vacation if you want to connect with nature, enjoy hiking or biking, play mountain golf, savor great cuisine, or simply get away from it all for a day, a weekend, or a week.
This 40-years-young resort can’t wait to welcome new guests and turn them into one of their legion of return customers. Where else can you find a waterfall just beyond your balcony, delicious barbecue each Sunday, and one of the best Par 3 golf shots in the world.
When reserving a stay at this luxury resort, you don’t have to fret about your hotel room view. Each balcony awaits with a stunning view of the Catalina Mountains, or one of Arizona’s best golf courses, or a majestic sunset. Every time a guest steps outdoors and feels a connection with nature, know that what you’re experiencing is exactly what was hoped for when this environmentally conceived resort opened their doors in 1984.
