If you’re planning a desert escape and want the kind of stay where every detail feels thoughtful, calm, and elevated, this Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain Review is exactly what you need. The Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain is one of the most luxurious desert resorts in Arizona, tucked into the Tortolita Mountains and surrounded by towering saguaros, red rock, and miles of protected desert landscape. It feels secluded in the dreamiest way — quiet, calm, and intentionally designed so every corner feels like a retreat. The architecture blends seamlessly with the environment, the service is exactly what you expect from a Ritz (and then some), and everything from the landscaping to the scents to the soft lighting adds to that elevated desert-luxury atmosphere. Whether you’re here to unwind by the pool, hit the spa, hike the on-site trails, or splurge on a romantic getaway, the resort makes you feel like you’re in your own little slice of Sonoran paradise.
If you’re planning a Tucson trip and want to stack your itinerary, you can also check out my guide to Downtown Tucson for food, murals, and local shopping — it pairs perfectly with a relaxing resort stay.
The resort is located in Marana, about 35–40 minutes from downtown Tucson and roughly 45 minutes from Tucson International Airport. If you fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor, plan for about a 90-minute drive. The approach into the property is beautiful: long desert roads lined with saguaros, sweeping mountain views, and that classic Arizona golden light. Cell service gets a little spotty on the final stretch, so download directions beforehand, but the signage is clear. Valet and self-parking are both available, and bell staff are quick to assist the moment you pull up.
If you’re planning more exploring around town, learn more in my post about Tucson for First-Timers: What to See, Eat & Do.
Upon arrival, you immediately step into vacation mode. The lobby is warm and earthy with huge windows overlooking the desert mountains, cozy seating areas, and that signature Ritz scent that makes you want to live there. Check-in is smooth and friendly, and staff often offer cold water or infused drinks (a blessing in Arizona heat). The property is sprawling but very walkable, and the design makes it feel intimate despite its size. If your room isn’t ready, the lounge and terrace are perfect spots to settle in, enjoy the view, and start pretending you’re a full-time resort person.
Rooms and suites are spacious, modern, and full of warm desert tones — think natural woods, stone accents, oversized bathrooms with soaking tubs, and plush bedding. Many rooms have private balconies, and choosing the right view makes a big difference.
Some of the suites face the pool and that is my favorite view, but if you spring for the luxury suites (only 3 of them) they face the mountains and have a sunset view.
These are huge, beautifully designed, and give you that dramatic Sonoran desert glow every evening. Regardless of room type, expect quiet nights, blackout curtains, cozy robes, and the kind of bathroom you wish you had at home.
The resort has two pools at the Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain. The top pool which I dubbed the quiet pool and then the lower pool (located just below the quiet pool) which has a splash pad, pool, and water slide.
This pool is exactly what the name implies — calm, serene, and an absolute dream for anyone who wants to read, nap, relax, or simply float in peace while staring at desert mountains. Loungers come with thick cushions, the umbrellas actually provide shade (a rarity!), and the staff is attentive without hovering. It’s the perfect adults-only escape.
Just below the quiet pool, you’ll find the family-friendly pool area, complete with a splash pad, a main pool, and a water slide that kids (and grown-ups) love. It’s lively without being chaotic, and the area is laid out in a way that keeps the energy fun but controlled. The landscaping is beautiful, the water temperature is perfect, and you still get those big desert views.
The resort also features a huge spa, guided daily activities, golf, fire pits, stargazing opportunities, and miles of hiking trails that start right behind the property. At night, the sky gets incredibly dark, making it a stargazing paradise.
If you love scenic spots as much as I do, see my full review of Gates Pass Sunset Guide: The Best Viewpoint in Tucson for a nearby golden-hour add-on.
The pool food was incredibly good. I loved the Caesar salad, burger, and tried the Mexican fruit tray. I loved the fruit tray but would ask for light tajin as I thought it was a a little excessive. This is a large fruit tray and can easily be split between 2 people.
The food at the resort is excellent across the board. Even the snacks hit. The resort also offers upscale dining, a great breakfast spread, specialty cocktails, and beautiful sunset dining options. If you’re a foodie, you will not be bored here.
For a quick getaway, 2–3 nights is perfect — just enough time to enjoy the pools, try the restaurants, relax, and explore the property. If you’re planning to use the spa, hike the trails, and really settle in for full desert rejuvenation, 3–4 nights is ideal. And honestly, staying even longer wouldn’t be a bad thing either. The resort is incredibly relaxing, so it’s easy to spend extra time here without feeling overscheduled.
The Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain is one of the best luxury resorts in Arizona, hands down. The scenery is breathtaking, the pools are thoughtfully designed, the food is delicious (especially poolside), and the rooms are spacious and cozy with some of the best views in Tucson. Whether you choose a suite overlooking the water or splurge on one of the three luxury mountain-facing suites for nightly sunsets, you’ll feel completely immersed in the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. It’s peaceful, elevated, and the perfect desert retreat for anyone wanting to unwind and soak up the Arizona experience.
If you’re deciding what else to pair with your stay, check out my Weekend in Tucson itinerary — it’s packed with easy scenic stops and delicious food.
Boston’s North End gets all the love for Italian food but trust me, the rest of Boston food is just as amazing 🍽️ From flaky biscuits and legendary sandwiches to rooftop breweries and chef-driven tasting menus, Boston’s food scene goes way beyond one neighborhood.
I put together the ultimate foodie guide to the best restaurants in Boston including where to go, what to order, and why each spot deserves a place on your itinerary.
Head to the full blog for the complete list. Save this for your next Boston trip and come hungry. Like, very hungry. 😌🍴
Packing for almost a month and somehow it all fit 😅✈️
Suoco sent me these vacuum bags to try and I’m honestly shocked by how much space they save. This works just as well for carry-on only trips as it does for long trips where you need bulky clothes.
If you’re an overpacker or always running out of suitcase space, these are a game changer.
#embarkexploreeat
#packinghacks
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#travelmusthaves
Embark on more adventures in 2026 by planning smarter not harder ✨ Travel doesn’t just happen. The people who travel more decide to prioritize it.
This year, make travel a goal with a plan behind it.
Explore more in 2026 not by waiting, but by planning ✨ The biggest travel mistake? Saving your dream trip for “later.” This year is all about turning someday into scheduled.
📍Choose experiences that stretch you
📍Travel with purpose, not pressure
📍Let exploration be part of your lifestyle
Make 2026 the year you visit the places you’ve dreamed of going… who is with me?
2026 goal: Eat the world, one bite at a time 🌍 From fresh pasta in Italy to street tacos in Mexico, food tells the story of a place. This year, prioritize trips that let you taste the culture, not just see it.
✨ PRO TIP: Build travel plans around food festivals, wine regions, or local markets.
Where should your first bite of 2026 be? 👇
Follow @travelwithwendyplummer for Beautiful Beach Destinations, City Guides, Foodie Spots, and Luxury Hotel Recommendations.
