I never met a Ritz Carlton I didn’t like and Dove mountain was beyond expectation. It was so good that yes it deserved it own post. Here’s everything it has to offer.
Something to note: we visited January 2022, this is off season. We were also coming out the other side of the covid pandemic so something to bear in mind.
Hotel
Dove Mountain is about a 20 minute drive from some form of shop/ restaurant and 30 minutes to Down Town Tucson. As it suggests it’s in the mountains and is very much a secluded luxury resort hotel.
The Hotel is beautiful and very sympathetic to its surroundings. The site entrance has staff member manning the forte at all times, you feel extremely safe there. The views are incredible. Go for a mountain view room to make the most of it. There is a lounge area off Ignite bar that leads out to out door seating and this view sold the entire trip for me. It is just as beautiful in person. The grounds are beautiful.
The staff are the best, nothing is too much. Valet parking is extremely willing, offering you waters for your journey, checking if you need the car again, opening your doors for you, collecting any shopping or luggage. We were up early to head out horse riding, they had asked the night before and the car was ready and waiting when we went down to call for it. Champagne on arrival, staff remember your name. Going into the bar and been greeted by your name and asked how you are is such a nice touch, and it costs nothing.
We had a missing shorts situation so John couldn’t swim, they had blown off the balcony. Reception told me to go the shop and get a pair on them.
Waters are available all around the hotel for you to have when ever you need one. I love this because I drink water like a fish and let me tell you our Phoenix hotel $10 a bottle. I thought it was a joke it was not.
Room
We went for a standard room with mountain view and 2 queen beds. Great sized room. Did we need two beds no, but why not. The bathroom had a huge bath and separate shower, as well as toilet in a cubicle which is kinda nice. His and hers sinks, which I have a lot of time for and plenty of counter space for all your stuff. If you know John and I we hate a sink that has no space for toiletry bags and products etc. John has as many products as me, well almost. Lots of closet space and draws for clothes. Although not enough hangers, is that just us taking too many clothes or are all hotels that stingy with them.
We arrived to a bottle of champagne in the room and were well looked after by one of the bell boys.
The room had a balcony to sit and enjoy the view.
Spa
I love a spa but being a therapist kinda ruins things for you so they have got to get it right. They nailed it. The spa was calm and peaceful, not too busy. Lots of space and quiet areas to relax. Separate sauna, steam and Jacuzzi. This allows for naked spa which is not my thing but each to their own. My treatment was incredible. I had a male therapist for the first time and he got exactly what I was looking for and the pressure was beyond expectation, just brilliant.
Restaurants
There are a few options to choose from, however during our stay not everything was open. It didn’t really bother us. We tried Ignite Bar, Core Kitchen and Wine Bar and Turquesa Latin Grill. Ignite Bar, much more casual. Great atmosphere, in and outdoor seating along with bar seating. Great for tacos and margaritas but also just general American dining and pretty much any drink you might fancy.
Core kitchen and Wine Bar was another level. The food, the service, the comfortable semi private dining, it was perfect. The kitchen is open which I love, I’m nosey and you know it’s a good kitchen if it’s on show. Lastly the wine, they have everything and a great sommelier, you’re not going to be disappointed.
Turquesa Latin Grill easy food, salads, chips and guac, burgers etc, great cocktails and a view of the hotel. Food was great again. You couldn’t fault any of the food the entire stay.
Activities
Hiking, spa, golf, swimming, plenty to do if you just want to stay on resort. Hiking was great, plenty of easy routes and some with a little more climbing. The views are worth the effort. Plenty of pools and a Jacuzzi pool. Slide for the kids or adults in our case. I loved it I’m not gonna lie. I’m not into golf and lets be honest I can barely hit the ball so no comments there.
John wasn’t sure why I’d wanted to book but shortly after arrival he said ok I get it. He also said shall we make it a January thing. I would love to go back, a January thing might be a bit of a push. I really do think just off season is a great time to go, slightly cheaper and so quiet. The weather early 20’s so nice if you’re not into scorching hot. I wondered if the service would dip peak season or if they would just have more staff. Anyway enough waffling, we can’t recommend enough and we will definitely be back. For more information head to their website.
Until next time Ritz Carlton. For more Arizona click here. See you in the next post
Rach xx
