There’s something special about a historic hotel stay. Combine that with a luxury dude ranch in Wickenburg, Arizona and you’ve got yourself a first-rate vacation. What might guests expect to find at Rancho de los Caballeros in the Sonoran desert? You’ll see horses, jack rabbits, quail, sunsets, stars and a cowboy hat, or two.
The historic Arizona guest ranch was established in 1948. The Rancho de los Caballeros name was a cowboy hat tip to the gentlemen vaqueros of yesteryear. While new ownership of the family-run ranch has taken over the reins of the property, guests will enjoy the same southwestern hospitality that RDLC is known for. From the 79 casitas on the 18,000 acre ranch, to the 18-hole golf course and family-friendly equestrian activities, there’s plenty of ways to kick up your heels.
I was in Wickenburg for the equestrian-based program. My husband drove to Arizona to pick me up from my riding holiday. After laying eyes on the good-looking golf course, he immediately regretted not bringing his golf clubs.
While horseback riding is the focus of this Arizona dude ranch, there are activities to keep little buckaroos and teenage yahoos entertained, as well as romance seekers. Lodging options include adjoining hotel rooms ( casitas) as well as larger suites. My understanding is that plans are underway for additional luxury suites and honeymoon suites. Personally, I think Rancho de los Cab is the ideal place for a girlfriend gathering.
Non riders or those wishing to try different activities will enjoy e-bike riding, pickleball, nature hikes, trap and skeet shooting, archery, the pool and golf.
Rancho de los Caballeros Spa Day
After a day, or several days, of horseback riding, it is time for a visit to the Spa at Rancho de los Caballeros. Treat yourself to a facial or my personal favorite, a hot stone massage. Relax in the reception area while you pick your aromatherapy scent or sip a mug of tea.
Additionally, the spa offers yoga classes, a labyrinth for walking and dry sauna. Transportation is available to take you to and from your spa appointment. My suite was ideally located within walking distance of the spa and dining room.
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Ranch dining in Wickenburg
Speaking of dining. There are several options of meal plans at the ranch, from Breakfast Only to Full American Plan. I opted for the full American Plan and enjoyed daily buffet breakfasts, as well as lunch at the Club Grill. On my birthday, my husband and I dined at 19, a luxury dining experience in the redesigned golf club.
No matter your dining selection, you’ll be treated to plenty of food. For meat lovers, the Wagyu steak was a hit. Those with a sweet tooth will not be disappointed with the skillet chocolate chip cookie. I look forward to a return visit to experience the cookout, as well as the Celebrity Guest Chef Dinner Series.
Rates at the ranch range from $315 to $675 per night for a double, inclusive of breakfast, depending on room type and time of year. Check the ranch website for special lodging rates or look for competitive rates at Expedia, Hotels.com, or your favorite online hotel booking site.
The ranch offers a kid’s club, as well as a saloon for adult specialty cocktails. Daily housekeeping is offered, in addition to complimentary WiFi. Parking is complimentary, while there is an additional fee for the airport shuttle. Ask at the front desk if a shuttle is available to take you to explore downtown historic Wickenburg. Don’t miss the Desert Caballeros Western Museum while downtown.
Hotel review and all photos by Oregon-based travel writer and cowgirl Nancy D. Brown. She was a guest of Rancho de los Caballeros working on assignment for a magazine article. As always, all thoughts and opinions are her own.
