The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain

Stayed there last year, and it exceeded my expectations. Very satisfied! When we left the room, we had left our sunglasses on the table, and when we returned, they had been carefully placed in a glasses cloth with the hotel’s logo. Even at Aman Resorts, it’s rare to see this kind of thoughtful surprise in room service!

The location and property is stunning. We saw so much wildlife - javalinas, a coyote, snakes, bunnies, birds, etc. The water slide was a big hit and we enjoyed a cabana rental for a little extra shade in the afternoon. The rooms are a good size. I wish the patio chairs were a little quieter but the balcony was lovely to sit out on for a peaceful time. The spa facilities are great. The rangers were outstanding. The guided hikes were well worth it. Ron was really terrific and informative. On a day hike my son learned all about cacti and the night hike for scorpions was a real highlight. If I were to offer two small suggestions it would be have a morning coffee station and don’t charge for s’mores. We would definitely return and recommend.

Five stars isn't enough. The Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain turns guests into regulars for a reason. We just wrapped a three-night getaway and the team made it unforgettable from the moment we pulled up. The valet team actually remembered us from our last stay, when a rogue Diet Coke exploded all over our car and my husband on arrival. This time they were ready: waiting in our room was a champagne bucket filled with ice-cold Diet Cokes and a sweet treat. That is the kind of detail you cannot train into people. They either care or they don't, and this team does. Holly went above and beyond with a wonderful room upgrade that made the stay even more special. The concierge arranged binoculars so we could explore the petroglyphs scattered around the property, which turned into one of the most interesting and fun things we did all weekend. Sunday brunch was superb, made-to-order omelets and pastries that were genuinely delightful. And then they got us one more time. On departure, the valet team and John surprised us with a framed, handmade piece of art of an exploding Diet Coke bottle, packaged up in a gift bag. It's hanging in my office along with the hand drawn art from our last stay. Thank you to the entire team for turning an inside joke into a three-night memory we will be talking about for a long time. We will absolutely be back.

This marks our 4th year visiting and we can't wait to come back. The property is tucked into Dove Mountain so you have 360 degree mountain views. The staff goes above and beyond to provide a memorable stay. The infinity edge Turquesa pool is an amazing place to spend an afternoon. Be aware that the main restaurant (Core) is under renovation and will be ready by end of September. The Ignite Bar serves as the properties main food & beverage operation. We ate there on the patio and it was great. If you're looking for a sanctuary is the desert, I would highly recommend the Ritz-Carlton at Dove Mountain.

Overall, the resort is a great place to spend a weekend. It includes three outdoor pools with a 235-foot waterslide (the spa pool is adults only); a 27-hole championship golf course; a full-service spa with therapy baths, steam room, fitness center, and cabana rentals; hiking and biking trails with stunning views; a bocce court; and four restaurants offering Southwestern specialties and organic cuisine. But, there are some things to note, namely on cost: 1. There are great “summer” rates and packages available - they usually run from mid-May until just before Labor Day. 2. Valet parking is $42 a day - there really isn’t another option. 3. The resort fee is $68.73 per day (that includes tax) 4. Food and drink are VERY pricey - especially breakfast and lunch (my small egg white omelet with greens on the side was $29). If you have the ability, use the To-Go coffee and bakery spot next to Core Kitchen & Bar. They are open until 11am everyday. 5. They do cater, fairly well, to gluten-free needs. Other things to note: We were in room 2805 - a beautiful, clean, and comfortable room. It was so nice to have a fire pit on our terrace to enjoy (as well as the wildlife that stopped by to say hi). Note that there is a sidewalk that runs the length of the hotel, right in front of the fire pits so during the day, it does not feel as private. The spa cabana was worth the price tag if you plan on wanting to be outside all day and want to keep cool in between soaking in the sun or swimming in the pool. It's also adults-only. The spa, itself is beautiful with every amenity you'd need for a relaxing day.