Unique historic property near U of A with a beautiful garden, 4 BR\/4BA, pool\/spa
About this house rental
Nestled in Catalina Foothills, this attractive house for $450 per night is a great option for your next vacation. This charming property is centrally located in Tucson 10 minutes from the University of Arizona. The property is entirely walled by a 7 foot fence and remote controlled entrance gates, offering safety, isolation, and security. It has a large private desert garden and a long front porch where you can sit or dine outside and enjoy the mountain views. The porch faces four majestic and ancient saguaros and a variety of citrus trees and native desert plant life. Enjoy the nonstop bird action and take a dip in the pool or jacuzzi! EV charging capability inside gates. 240v nema 14-50 outlet! The house was part of an artist's colony that was originally constructed in the early 1940's when this part of town was still completely undeveloped with virgin cactus and the lush desert oasis character that defines Tucson. As Tucson evolved, the artist's colony was subdivided, but this property remained a rare 2/3’s acre lot that preserves a desert feel right in central Tucson ! We have kept the Tucson spirit alive in the house with antiques and art and a garden that still has a wild character to it. Native creosote bushes abound on the property, which many developers used to just tear up. They are now protected, are quite ancient, and give the desert it's unique smell during rain. The house sits on a little hill and is completely surrounded by a seven foot fence, so it floats somewhat above the neighbourhood and gives unobstructed views to the north and east of the nearby Catalina mountains and foothills. A truly unique experience of an 'old Tucson' gem in northeast central Tucson that also gives a feeling of security and privacy. Sit on the front porch and enjoy the view of the Catalina Mountains, or take a dip in the luxurious stone-decked pool. The giant saguaro cacti, and we have three jumbos, are the main attraction of the garden (and one of the main reasons we bought the house!) They are ancient and majestic, and 150 years old plus. The saguaros and mediterranean trees, orange and lemon trees and roses invite birds of all sorts to this quiet natural sanctuary, where all the best Tucson attractions are at your fingertips. Bird seed provided and we encourage the guests to feed the birds. And the rabbits too (though they eat the grass!) Also enjoy the luxury memory foam beds inside designed for a perfect sleep. The property has a main house and a guest house. The main house has two master bedrooms, each with a king bed and its own attached bathroom with shower. There is a smaller bedroom with a queen bed and closet without an attached bathroom. However there is a third bathroom with its own shower in the main house off the living room. Each bedroom has its own door that opens on to the front or back garden. Hence four bathrooms total. The guest house has a king bed, living room with its own cable tv, outside sitting area, and kitchen (refrigerator and microwave and seating area) The guest house has its own bathroom with shower. There are also two sleepable sofas in the guest house, as well as an inflatable. Entirely walled, the property protects small children and dogs from wandering off the property. The pool and oversized jacuzzi can be heated upon request and subject to weather conditions for an additional charge. In the wintertime we advise just heating the jacuzzi. We stop heating the pool on November 1 through March 1 as the nighttime temps are often below 40 degrees, even though the days can be above 70 degrees! That's the desert. The charge to heat the jacuzzi is $40 per day, the pool $60 per day. These are billed as supplemental invoices after a booking is completed and are charged in advance. The side patio has a Weber propane grill and bar/seating area for dinner parties up to 10 plus. 50 channels of Cox-provided cable television, broadband WiFi throughout the property, and a CD/tape stereo are provided, along with a decent library of CD’s. There is a large private library stocked with a variety of nonfiction and fiction titles. Not to mention a sizeable collection of Betty and Veronica and Archie comic books for the young ones. Nest thermostat controlled heating/air conditioning in the main house via a powerful Trane HVAC unit recently installed. There are various sitting areas around the property, including a sitting area in front of a Mexican cheminea for outside fires. Wood is provided, mesquite, eucalyptus, and white pine. Ideally located just minutes from the University of Arizona, La Paloma and Lowes Ventana golf courses, the Tucson Tennis and Racquet Club, Refkin Tennis Center, Gem Show and Spring Training venues, it is also close to some of the city’s best restaurants and shopping places. Tucson is becoming a bike city, there are dedicated bike paths everywhere. The house is 5-10 minutes from the Riilto Wash bike path, the longest and most known bike path that cuts for 15 miles plus through the center of Tucson and then loops all the way around Tucson for serious bikers. We find biking on the streets around the house and over to the shopping/restaurants on Campbell very easy as the streets are unusually wide and have very little traffic. Its a 15-20 minute ride to the University of Arizona campus. A cyclist's paradise! Bike to the Riilto Park Saturday farmer's market or to the Roasting Sage Coffee shop (voted best in town!). Select grocery shopping at the Rincon Market /AJ's/Trader Joe's and the city’s best farmers’ market at St. Phillips Plaza. The new (and massive!) Whole Foods at River and Craycroft is 15 minutes from the house, and also reachable by the Riilto bike path. Upscale dining options include Vivace, Hacienda del Sol (voted #1 in Tucson) and Acacia restaurant. And local favorite El Corral. Don't miss the antiques on Country club ..., and Sammy's Sonoran hot dog stand at Country Club and Grant. Perfect for families with children. The large pool, big enough for laps, is designed to safety codes with surrounding fence and closing child-proof (5 and under) gate. Convenient, affordable, and accessible day care options within ten minutes of the address. Night-life at the historic Hotel Congress, Rialto Theater and Centennial Hall’s fine arts performances will keep you more than entertained. When you’re ready for adventure, take a day trip to Mt. Lemmon, Sabino Canyon or Saguaro National Park. You will love the confort, privacy, and convenience of this wonderful Tucson vacation getaway. Keywords: Tucson, vacation, rental, vacation rental, arizona, house, private pool, garden, central Tucson, u of a, ua, charm, confort, family, private, luxury, near university of arizona
Amenities
Pool
Air conditioner
Pets allowed
Kitchen / Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Fireplace
Parking
Laundry
Balcony / Patio
Dishwasher
Hot Tub / Spa
TV
Wheelchair accessible
Garden
Family friendly
Map of Catalina Foothills, AZ
Reviews
4.8/5.0
Outstanding(108 Reviews)
8.0
Our stay was without surprises. The house even had a plug in for electric vehicles. Bring your own plug!
I was a bit put off when 1st entering this french farmhouse style home. It seemed a bit neglected. But after a few hours it was quite comfortable, with plenty of room for a family gathering.
Very secure property, nice garden. Would rent again if I need the space!
5.0
We loved staying in this classic Tucson home, convenient and comfortable, with a beautiful walled garden, a pool, and a hot tub. The furniture and artwork is all unique and fitting for the Tucson arts scene. We would definitely rent again.
3.0
I thought the grounds were lovely, and the property is very conveniently located to many amenities. The hot tub is large, though when I stayed in December it took several hours to come up to temperature - completely understandable, but something to watch out for. The beds were quite comfortable, the kitchen was well stocked with tools and appliances (though no garbage bags that fit the kitchen can) and the house was decorated in a fun, eclectic style. It is a comfortable home.
There were some issues with our stay. On arriving, we were informed that the bathroom in the casita had no hot water (though I'm sure it will be fixed). The casita on the property also has no central heat (the host supplied us with a portable radiator which was limited in its usefulness). The wireless network for the house also does not reach the casita. This latter issue is completely understandable, but should have been communicated prior to booking or our stay.
Additionally, there was a rainstorm during our stay, and the ceiling in both the main house and the casita leaked filthy water in three of the four bedrooms. These leaks made one bedroom unusable for an evening as water was dripping on the bed. Was the rain storm unusual for Arizona? Absolutely. Do significant rain storms happen in Arizona on occasion? Absolutely.
The property owner agreed to offer a small refund for the inconveniences, which I appreciate.
4.0
The place was comfortable we had a good time, the jacuzzi was nice and the grounds were private
5.0
The property is sweet you just don’t even wanna leave you can just sit there and it is your own private world.
5.0
Great! The house and pool were perfect for our stay. but bring your bug spray for the night.
5.0
This is our THIRD stay at this quaint and eclectic gem of a home in Tucson. There are many reasons why we always come back
The hosts and the property manager are responsive and accommodating and just overall enjoyable to work with. They make the process easy and if you need anything, or have any questions they are quick to jump in and make sure everything is okay!
The home decor is cozy, eclectic and whimsical with a fully stocked kitchen, wifi and newer AC.
The gated pool is fabulous! The yard is stunning with the now 200-year-old saguaro cacti. There's just something so peaceful about the beautiful yard and garden, as you meander throughout the property that's more like a curated museum.
If you're lucky, you'll see the gambrill quails, a lizard or two or hear the mourning doves. There's even a lush lawn! It's a beautiful visual feast as you're sitting on the porch taking in the panoramic view of the Catalina mountains.
At the end of a long day, you will rest well on the most LUXURIOUS beds. I feel like I'm in a five-star hotel. And the pillows are fabulous!
We've looked at other properties, but we love the soul of this place, and always return here. We definitely plan to be here next year!
4.0
Our family celebrated an important birthday at the Palo Verde home mid-June 2023. During our stay, we were in contact with the property manager and the owner who did their best to address our questions and concerns. We enjoyed waking up to lovely landscaping and birds of all types chirping. The mornings and evenings we were able to enjoy outdoor dining. The property was big enough to house our party, with grocery stores and entertainment nearby.
Thanks to Mr. Toby and Mr. Tom for all their help.
5.0
Wonderful location and amazing yard. We had a great stay.
5.0
My group has stayed here over five times, and we still love it.
5.0
If you are looking for a centrally located Tucson property with great views of the Catalina’s and lots of extras this is your spot! Extras include a huge pool, great jacuzzi, wonderful fire chimnea, beautiful gardens, and free standing casita. The house was very clean and 4 full baths was a bonus.. The owner and property manager were extremely responsive and proactive to answer any questions. And if you are part of EV nation there is a charging port onsite :)!!
1.0
If I could give this rental zero stars I would. The listing tags the rental as luxurious, but that’s only true if you don’t mind a severe cockroach infestation and hornet attacks. The photos on Vrbo are very old and do not accurately represent what is there now. And the description is just plain lies.
I have delayed writing this review because I have been disputing the charges for the stay with my credit card company. They agree that the rental is not as advertised and refunded all of my money. Unfortunately, there is a law that is we stay and use the property, our only recourse is small claims court and the credit card company is not allowed to refund us. Living 2,500 miles away, filing a claim for a vacation rental is not feasible.
Based on the description on the Vrbo website, we thought this property would be perfect for our needs. One of us is disabled and needs to swim every day for her physical therapy rehab. Soaking in a hot tub after her swim improves the results of the swim. The property listed four bedrooms, a large inground pool and a hot tub. Several times throughout the description, the property is described as luxurious and private. Unfortunately, the conditions we found were far from what was described on the website and what we paid for. The property is falsely represented by the description on the Vrbo website.
There were numerous problems with the property. The kitchen and bathrooms were infested with at least two species of cockroaches. The infestation is so severe that they were active during the day. We were unable to use the dishwasher as it was filled with cockroaches. The kitchen counters were filthy, the garbage can and refrigerator smelled slightly of rotten food and only the main areas of the floors were swept. We found bits of paper and other debris from previous tenants under the wine rack and TV. I’m afraid that only the sheets and towels provided seemed to be clean.
The grill was filthy and wouldn’t start.
The hot tub did not work for the first four days of our stay. When the pool company arrived to fix it, they found the equipment was so old that it could no longer be repaired and that two of the three remotes that controlled the hot tub were missing. The only way to use the hot tub was to manually turn it on in the equipment shed.
5.0
We love the house and the grounds. It suits us ao well. Toby and Tom are amazing to work with. Its the perfect place for us. Looking forward to our next stay.
5.0
My family and I loved this property--my dad, sister and her husband stayed in the front house, which is an hacienda/ranch style house with great indoor space and a fully-equipped kitchen. My wife and I stayed in the back unit, which worked well, esp. since it has its own mini kitchen, thermostat, etc.
The outdoor space is perhaps what makes this place shine the most. We all sat on the porch in the mornings and watched the gila woodpeckers and cactus wrens poke their heads out of one of the saguaros. On another occasion, we had a couple friends over and all hung out in the hot tub. Really a lovely experience. Looking forward to coming back again!
5.0
Our one-week stay at Toby's beautiful property in Tucson was everything we could have hoped for and more. We stayed there with our grown son and his partner. (Our daughter and her partner came down with Covid the day before they were to leave home so they didn't join us.) All of the amenities were great: The beds were large and comfortable, the hot water was hot, the showers were easy to get in and out of (I have some mobility issues and found the property, inside and out, posed no problems for me), the WiFi was strong. The young folk enjoyed the hot tub and we all enjoyed sitting on the beautiful patio and watching the birds in the saguaro cactus.
The kitchen had everything we needed to cook meals (when we felt like cooking) and there was plenty of space to gather together as well as to maintain some private space. We all enjoyed the amazing artwork by a modern French painter that decorates the walls as well as the eclectic collection of antiques and curiosities that are found throughout the house.
The property is beautifully located not far from the Huckleberry Loop. My husband enjoyed his daily bird-watching walk every morning on the path. (So many birds!) In addition, everything you need for your stay--grocery stores, restaurants, little shops--are at most a 10-15 minute drive away.
Toby was easy to reach and lovely to work with. He adjusted our fees to our changing situation (The couple who didn't come were supposed to bring their dog...so we didn't need to pay the pet fee in the end.) and answered every question I had with enthusiasm and warmth. Tom, the property manager, welcomed us and made it clear that he was there to help if we needed him. Everything was so clearly communicated before we came that we really had no questions once we were there, but we knew if we did Tom would solve our problem.
We do not hesitate to recommend this property for a family meet up (as we did) or a family getaway. It is just perfect!
5.0
Property is amazing!!
5.0
This property is great! Completely walled in creating a comfortable private oasis that is also pet friendly. The pool and jacuzzi were clean and comfortable, BBQ area is nice. Beautiful landscaping and art allowing for a fun relaxing weekend! Highly recommend!
5.0
Really enjoyed the pool and sitting on the veranda watching the birds and butterflies. Beautiful landscaping!
Even though we had some rain during our October stay, we had a great time with family. I would love to visit again!
5.0
Great outdoor areas!
Everything went well during all phases of our stay. We all enjoyed the pool and front patio as well as the yard; the kids loved having separate spaces. The decor and overall vibe was eclectic and relaxing.
Hosts and property manager were just easy to work with, communicated well, were friendly and accomodating.
5.0
We have come to this same house every year for a half-dozen years now. It's pretty incredible to have saguaro cactus in the front yard of such a central location! And a pool, and a hot tub and a back house! The host and the manager are super easy to work with. The place has always been super clean, and we're already booked to come back next year. Fire pit, bocce ball ... I could go on and on about all the things we love about this place.
5.0
This place is the best!
We have come to this same house every year for a half-dozen years now. It's pretty incredible to have saguaro cactus in the front yard of such a central location! And a pool, and a hot tub and a back house! The host and the manager are super easy to work with. The place has always been super clean, and we're already booked to come back next year. Fire pit, bocce ball ... I could go on and on about all the things we love about this place.
5.0
Second time stay. The property is large and has great outdoor space for hanging out and gathering as a family for graduation. Fee very safe due to large walls. Great proximity to campus for graduation activities. Well stocked kitchen. Nice grill area. Due to lush grounds, be prepared for dust and bugs; it’s just the desert and that’s how it is!
5.0
Graduation Weekend
Second time stay. The property is large and has great outdoor space for hanging out and gathering as a family for graduation. Fee very safe due to large walls. Great proximity to campus for graduation activities. Well stocked kitchen. Nice grill area. Due to lush grounds, be prepared for dust and bugs; it’s just the desert and that’s how it is!
5.0
Private desert oaisis
We had a mixed group of hikers, bikers, birders and children and this house was perfect. It is centrally located - near the Tucson loop for bikers and easy access to all parks for hikers. The birders enjoyed watching all the birds on the property make nests, feed thier young and mark thier territories. And the kids loved the pool and making homemade lemonade using ripe lemons from the tree.
5.0
We love Arizona and this house was the epitome of a classic Arizona home. It truly felt like home. Fabulous mountain views, your own private desert, dining al fresco and all the amenities that came with this house made for an incredible two month stay.
5.0
Home Sweet Home
We love Arizona and this house was the epitome of a classic Arizona home. It truly felt like home. Fabulous mountain views, your own private desert, dining al fresco and all the amenities that came with this house made for an incredible two month stay.
5.0
Outside space is Amazing!
This is our 2nd time staying here. House is a very welcoming and homey. We love the 2 king suites at opposite ends of the house! Robert and Tom are the nicest people to deal with. We hope to stay again. It's very nice having all that space and the bonus apartment out back. We are already planning to stay again next year, but for a longer time. We wish there was an exhaust fan over the stove
The outside area is the best ever! We love the grounds and feeding the birds. Looking forward to our next visit!
2.0
I wasn't going to write this review. Told owner I was not going to. The owner (who was timely and assisted in new sheets; crediting pool and spa/hot-tub via email was helpful. We have as friends after this adventure teamed up for good rental experiences. They were frustrated with me for not getting credit for nonexistent cleaning charge- frustrated with me for not reviewing.
The pool credit was agreed prior to our visit. The spa/hot-tub was credit after stay because never worked well.
I have pictures for my claims. We also are a group of folks that are okay in tents; hostels; etc. But this was NOT THAT type of trip.
The cottage my wife and I stayed at had sheets with bodily fluid stains; there were bugs everywhere in the cottage bathroom; the kitchen area had broken glass I found when seeking a cover for the table; cobwebs on inside furniture. And from my friends who have done their own VBRO renting. Why all personal clothing in closets-nowhere to place our clothing for stay.
Positives-yep. Beautiful outdoor sitting area. Grill that worked. Nice neighbors we met. Great location.
2.0
Failed in Cleaning!!!!!!
I wasn't going to write this review. Told owner I was not going to. The owner (who was timely and assisted in new sheets; crediting pool and spa/hot-tub via email was helpful. We have as friends after this adventure teamed up for good rental experiences. They were frustrated with me for not getting credit for nonexistent cleaning charge- frustrated with me for not reviewing.
The pool credit was agreed prior to our visit. The spa/hot-tub was credit after stay because never worked well.
I have pictures for my claims. We also are a group of folks that are okay in tents; hostels; etc. But this was NOT THAT type of trip.
The cottage my wife and I stayed at had sheets with bodily fluid stains; there were bugs everywhere in the cottage bathroom; the kitchen area had broken glass I found when seeking a cover for the table; cobwebs on inside furniture. And from my friends who have done their own VBRO renting. Why all personal clothing in closets-nowhere to place our clothing for stay.
Positives-yep. Beautiful outdoor sitting area. Grill that worked. Nice neighbors we met. Great location.
5.0
We had a wonderful stay at this beautiful desert private retreat. The gardens are spectacular and the outdoor space is so tranquil. We enjoyed amazing sunrises and sunsets from the lovely patio. We enjoyed the large outdoor heated pool/jacuzzi and the outdoor fire chimney. The quaint rustic French decor of the mid-century ranch boasts a well stocked kitchen, two large king master bedrooms with on-suites. There is an additional queen bedroom and full bath plus a cottage. The property is close to grocery stores, restaurants, Univ AZ, Tucson city, Saguaro National Park, and Sabino Canyon for hiking. This private retreat is a lovely oasis to relax and enjoy in the Tucson area.
5.0
Sonoran Desert Private Oasis
We had a wonderful stay at this beautiful desert private retreat. The gardens are spectacular and the outdoor space is so tranquil. We enjoyed amazing sunrises and sunsets from the lovely patio. We enjoyed the large outdoor heated pool/jacuzzi and the outdoor fire chimney. The quaint rustic French decor of the mid-century ranch boasts a well stocked kitchen, two large king master bedrooms with on-suites. There is an additional queen bedroom and full bath plus a cottage. The property is close to grocery stores, restaurants, Univ AZ, Tucson city, Saguaro National Park, and Sabino Canyon for hiking. This private retreat is a lovely oasis to relax and enjoy in the Tucson area.
5.0
Desert Art
The grounds are a beautiful reflection of the desert with saguaro cactus, ocotillo, and an amazing variety of birds. The pool is large and well appointed. We delighted in the original art hung throughout the house. It was easy to prepare food and the kitchen was well stocked.
5.0
You won’t know you’re in the middle of Tucson with how secluded it feels once the front gate closes. The house was great! The porch was filled with amazing handmade rocking chairs that allowed for a peaceful day watching and listening to all the birds loving the cacti and foliage in the yard.
5.0
Beautiful secluded sanctuary.
You won’t know you’re in the middle of Tucson with how secluded it feels once the front gate closes. The house was great! The porch was filled with amazing handmade rocking chairs that allowed for a peaceful day watching and listening to all the birds loving the cacti and foliage in the yard.
5.0
Amazing property. Feel like you are in a private resort in the middle of Tucson.
5.0
Beautiful and Tranquil Home in the City
We are return guests and couldn't wait for our one week vacation in Tucson. Mr. Hubner the owner, and the property manager, Tom, are communicative and made the process so easy to check in.
This home is perfection. The large front porch is made for enjoying quiet, cool evenings and early morning bird watching. We enjoy feeding the birds with seeds (provided by owner). There's so much activity with all the birds and lizards! The property itself is so gorgeous and peaceful -- you must experience it.
The beds and pillows are amazingly comfortable! It's nice each room has a walk- out to the yard. The kitchen is well stocked too!
The pool is well kept and gated. The children loved swimming, and the toys for the 3 y.o. were such a thoughtful touch.
We couldn't wait to return because we knew what a piece of heaven was waiting for us, and we can't wait to come back next year!
This home and garden are lovingly kept, and you won't be disappointed with your stay at the Palo Verde home!
5.0
This was a great place to celebrate graduation with friends and family. The pool and outdoor area made for a fun atmosphere. When not entertaining, the shaded outdoor area was welcoming while enjoying the birds, garden and comfy gathering areas. The pool was fabulous and provided plenty of opportunity to relax and enjoy the sun in Tucson. Highly recommend this place for 6-8 people while visiting Tucson or the UofA area.
5.0
Great location and amenities
This was a great place to celebrate graduation with friends and family. The pool and outdoor area made for a fun atmosphere. When not entertaining, the shaded outdoor area was welcoming while enjoying the birds, garden and comfy gathering areas. The pool was fabulous and provided plenty of opportunity to relax and enjoy the sun in Tucson. Highly recommend this place for 6-8 people while visiting Tucson or the UofA area.
5.0
Private retreat in the city
Amazing property. Feel like you are in a private resort in the middle of Tucson.
5.0
Tucson gem show
The beds were very comfortable. We really enjoyed the outdoor sitting area. We enjoyed the spa and pool. We enjoyed watching all the birds in the morning. The property is very central, and very quiet for being in the city. It is all fenced enclosed and private.
FAQs
How much does this house cost compared to others in Catalina Foothills?
The average price for a rental in Catalina Foothills is $184 per night. This rental is $266 above the average.
Is parking included with this house?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Unique historic property near U of A with a beautiful garden, 4 BR\/4BA, pool\/spa. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this house?
Yes, a swimming pool is available for use at Unique historic property near U of A with a beautiful garden, 4 BR\/4BA, pool\/spa. Enjoy the water!
Is Unique historic property near U of A with a beautiful garden, 4 BR\/4BA, pool\/spa pet friendly?
Yes! This house is pet-friendly. For more information, we recommend contacting the booking provider about animal policies.
What amenities are available at Unique historic property near U of A with a beautiful garden, 4 BR\/4BA, pool\/spa?
We found 15 amenities for this rental. This includes pool, air conditioner, pets allowed, kitchen / kitchenette, and internet / wifi.
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