It’s not every day that you get to experience rich culture, incredible cuisine, blissful relaxation and complete immersion in natural Arizona wilderness. Tucked in the hills of historic Wickenburg, you’ll find Rancho de los Caballeros, a luxurious 20,000-acre dude ranch hosting guests for 75 years.
From the moment you enter the ranch, you are transported to another place and time. Gorgeous greens surrounding 18 holes of golf, glistening tennis courts, seasoned steeds awaiting adventure and a pool as blue as the sky fills your surroundings. Stepping into the lodge, you catch a scent of firewood and your eyes immediately wander around the intricately designed space. Friendly faces greet you like family, welcoming you in as they hand you the keys to your authentic Sonoran Desert stay.
Rancho de los Caballeros, or “gentlemen on horseback,” was originally founded in 1948 by the families of Dallas Gant, Sr., C.L. Maguire and Belford Howard. The hope was to create a dude ranch that could share Southwestern spirit with families and friends for many years to come.
This dream remains a reality, with 75 percent of guests being repeat visitors. The theme of family could not be more prevalent—from the spacious casitas, to the warm personalities of the staff, to the community you create throughout your stay.
There is never a lapse in adventure. Set your alarm for 7 a.m. to catch the horses being corralled from pasture. Watch them run and feel the wind rush past you as you watch the elegant creatures begin their work day. Next, a breakfast buffet full of fruit, custom omelets and tasty muffins awaits you. Experience Rancho de los Caballeros to the fullest with activities such as horseback riding, a spa visit, archery, hiking with a Naturalist, relaxing by the pool and, after a full day, sitting down to enjoy the carefully crafted menu.
Saturdays are special evenings at Rancho de los Caballeros. Don’t forget to pack your cowboy attire because just as the sun begins to set, your hayride awaits you. Jump on board and shake hands with fellow guests as you head off to Yucca Flats. There, you are greeted by talented musicians, a full barbecue buffet and, last but not least, a bonfire and s’mores. Look up at the stars and breathe in the desert air as you reflect on your time at the ranch.
The amenities of the Rancho de los Caballeros are not limited solely to the shared spaces. The ranch features five different Southwestern-styled casita options, all built with their own unique charm. Options include mountain views, jetted tubs, private patios and more. Upgrade your stay and select from the many packages and retreats offered. Packages may include rounds of golf, gourmet meal plans and ranch activities such as horseback riding and archery.
Rancho de los Caballeros will close during the warmer summer months but reopens its doors in October. Exciting renovations and newly built accommodation options await guests this fall.
To learn more or book your stay, visit ranchodeloscaballeros.com.
1551 S. Vulture Mine Rd.
Wickenburg, AZ 85390
Photo credit: Rancho de los Caballeros