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Authentic Tucson Experience: Mud Adobe Casita Nestled in Canyon Among Wildlife

Holiday home in Tucson with kitchen and fireplace

Photo gallery for Authentic Tucson Experience: Mud Adobe Casita Nestled in Canyon Among Wildlife

The ever changing colors of the canyon walls at sunset are spectacular
The glowing kiva fireplace adds warmth to this relaxing space.
The kiva fireplace adds a soft glow and crackling voice to create a relaxing at
King bed with hypoallergenic pillows of differing firmness
The hand painted Talavera sink exemplifies the folk art displayed throughout

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

View in a map
Tucson, AZ
  • Place, Casino del Sol
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Tuscon Spectrum
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Mission San Xavier del Bac
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Airport, Tucson, AZ (TUS-Tucson Intl.)
    ‪15 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Front Bedroom

1 King Bed

Rear Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

Authentic Tucson Experience: Mud Adobe Casita Nestled in Canyon Among Wildlife

Nestled inside a boulder studded canyon this adobe casita is the perfect peaceful retreat possessing a commanding view of Tucson. With just under 4 acres to roam, the romance of the location will enchant couples. Possessing the rustic qualities of the classic Tucson adobe style, the massive 16' thick walls of the adobe casita were forged from the earth with adobe blocks made on site.  The casita appears as though it's always been there having grown out of the ground merging seamlessly with the surrounding desert. Adobe construction including passive solar design moderate temperatures in ways unmatched by other building materials providing an unsurpassed level of comfort.  

If you've never slept in an adobe home it may be your best night's sleep yet.  The natural materials of the casita were chosen to effect a calming harmony that will help relax you into a deep slumber at night as the coyotes serenade you to sleep.  Imagine waking fully restored with an energy reminiscent of your childhood.  

The casita features the conveniences of modern living:
•Update Facebook, connect with your family at home via Skype, or just catch up on a TV show you missed on HULU from any room with WIFI. 
•Catch the big game, your favorite soap, or the most popular prime-time shows on a large, flat screen, LED HDTV. 
•Cuddle with loved ones as the wood burning fireplace warms and transforms your nights into a cherished memory.
•Whip up a quick snack using the new microwave then stash the dishes in the new dishwasher. 
•Even though you'll start to miss the casita before you leave, take advantage of the new washer and dryer to pack fresh, clean clothes. 
•Start your morning with a complimentary coffee starter pack.
•The 300+ thread count, organic cotton sheets are a joy to sleep on. Additional linens provided to enhance your comfort.
•With more than 350 days of sunshine, Tucson is the sunniest city in the US. Attached covered parking protects your vehicle.
•For your convenience a hair dryer is stored in the bath vanity. 
•A naturalist library containing numerous field guides to look up your discoveries made during your foray into the surrounding desert. 
•A full kitchen is available for foodies wanting to cook for themselves.

Keywords: house, casita, adobe

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Air conditioning
Parking available
Mountain view

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 24
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
We do NOT allow pets. Please book elsewhere.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
Property Registration Number 21522400

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Tucson

Located in Drexel Heights, a neighbourhood in Tucson, this holiday home is in a rural area and near theme parks. Mission San Xavier del Bac and Cheyney House are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Saguaro National Park and Red Hills Visitor Center. Children's Museum Tucson and Old Tucson Studios are also worth visiting. Take in the nearby slopes with skiing, or try out other outdoor activities such as sledging.
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Map
Tucson, AZ

What's nearby

  • Casino del Sol - 9 min drive - 5.7 km
  • Tuscon Spectrum - 9 min drive - 7.2 km
  • AVA Amphitheater - 9 min drive - 6.1 km
  • Casino of the Sun - 10 min drive - 6.8 km
  • Mission San Xavier del Bac - 10 min drive - 8.3 km

Getting around

  • Roy Laos Transit Center - 20 min drive
  • Tucson Station - 26 min drive
  • Tucson International Airport (TUS) - 27 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Circle K - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Circle K - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Circle K - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Circle K - ‬7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Authentic Tucson Experience: Mud Adobe Casita Nestled in Canyon Among Wildlife pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Authentic Tucson Experience: Mud Adobe Casita Nestled in Canyon Among Wildlife?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Authentic Tucson Experience: Mud Adobe Casita Nestled in Canyon Among Wildlife?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Authentic Tucson Experience: Mud Adobe Casita Nestled in Canyon Among Wildlife?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Authentic Tucson Experience: Mud Adobe Casita Nestled in Canyon Among Wildlife located?

Located in Drexel Heights, this holiday home is within 6 miles (10 km) of Tuscon Spectrum, Casino of the Sun and Mission San Xavier del Bac. AVA Amphitheater and Casino del Sol are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 116 out of 132 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 14 out of 132 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 132 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 132 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 132 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Rachel K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very nice casita. Very comfortable with ever need though of and provided for. Quiet, picturesque surroundings.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was the most AMAZING place for a get away for the 2 of us. The house is down a quiet road that is winding. The view was amazing, it was like we were out in the desert by ourselves. We saw all kinds of wildlife including Javalinas!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Oliver C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Pleasant Stay

Accommodations and the view was fantastic.
Stayed 19 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Teira W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely Casita

The owners were super welcoming, place was clean and neat. Lots of wildlife to see on the property. Overall a very nice property.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jon S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

We loved the “Casita”!

We enjoyed every minute. The house, the views, the quiet, everything! We were very sad to have to leave.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Amy S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Place to Stay!

Very lovely home, beautiful area and quiet! My daughter and I really enjoyed seeing wildlife, the beautiful, peaceful scenery and the house is lovely! Owners are very easy to communicate with and took great care, by sending detailed emails, to make sure we found the place with ease and got into the home.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lynn B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is a unique spot. Amazing views all around. Never really adapted to our time difference so I saw the sunrise every day. We were able to see the javelinas one evening. The kitchen is well equipped and the outdoor seating is lovely. This is off the beaten path but was well located to access the sites the Tucson area has to offer. We were very comfortable.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Joanie s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Casita

Husband & I in Tucson for golf. Loved the casita. Initially hard to find but worth it ! Had a great stay. Everything we needed. A little drive to some of our destinations . Would definitely stay again.
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dawn D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful and Serene!

Everything about this stay was wonderful; the property was well appointed and the view was incredible; the proximity to restaurants and other amenities was great. We LOVED our stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sean F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hole in the wall

Great location, like some hidden valley in the old west. The casita is wonderfully designed and built. Always ten degrees cooler inside than out. There is another house in close proximity that is artfully absent from the photos but generally unobtrusive.
Stayed 32 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Peggy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent, private, classy place to stay

We thoroughly enjoyed the casita. The space was perfect and the amenities were above and beyond. We were close to where the trapshoot club tournament. The casita is decorated in very good taste. We enjoyed the patio and grill. Absolutely loved he best place ever. Thank you for your accommodations. We would love to stay with you again next year.Joy
Stayed 12 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Eileen M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely casita in the Sonoran desert

Beautiful casita behind a larger house that felt secluded and great for solitary time in Sonaroan environment. House was lovely, great kitchen and we enjoyed outdoor fires in the evening. Had a question and reached out to the owners who promptly replied and were extremely hospitable. Highly recommend this lovely desert get-away.
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Andrew

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
This place was perfect! The views are amazing. The house itself is gorgeous. The owners were incredibly attentive and helpful. I can’t wait to stay here again!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Paul M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful! Casita in the desert outside Tucson

Clean, quiet, very comfortable casita that has beautiful ceramic and Adobe flagstone floors. All modern conveniences, excellent air conditioning. A really wonderful stay.
Stayed 9 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Sweet stay in this lovely casita

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Lovely, secluded property with everything we needed. Wish we could have stayed longer.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jill J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay, great property

We had a lovely stay. Home was very well maintained, and it was very clean.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Alex M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place

Had a great time. Place is is great and hosts are awesome.
Stayed 11 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

patricia h.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolute desert perfection

My adult son and I have stayed in several Tucson rentals over the past few years and this is by far our favourite. The location was rural enough to enjoy peace and tranquility but within easy reach of everything Tucson has to offer. We will definitely be back depending on availability.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Matthew C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best of both worlds

We absolutely loved our stay here. The casita is spacious but still cozy. The little touches are everywhere, and they add so much to the experience. Modern appliances, excellent A/C, and cute furnishings. Also very clean.As nature lovers, we were thrilled by the location. The landscape is breathtaking. The casita is nestled into the rocky landscape and there are mature saguaros all around the property. If you love wildlife, you’ll love this place. We saw javelinas at dusk, and countless bird species.Even though it’s a bit off the main road grid, getting there is easy if you follow the hosts’ directions. It’s also close to restaurants and grocery stores. This is one of our favorite places we’ve ever stayed.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Carolyn W., Blairsville

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beauty Abounds!!

Beautiful location and rental. Road slowed us down a bit, but location worth the extra effort!
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kevin A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful desert lication

House has a wonderful feel. Perfect spot for a getaway for my wife and me.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2024

8/10 Good

Todd B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy

Great place to get away from the city

Casita was great with two bedrooms and plenty of room. Property is starting to show some wear with Leaking faucets, mineral buildup around fixtures, loose tiles, etc. However, the vibe is really cool and the beds comfortable. Place was very clean when we arrived, and I believe we left it clvery clean as well.Would come back, except we like other surrounding areas better and would probably try something different to be closer to the things we like to do.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend in Tucson

Amazing. Such a beautiful location, and the house is just gorgeous. We loved it.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karen

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Beautiful in and out.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

PANSY P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Adorable Southwest Casita

Casita was well appointed - had everything we needed.
Stayed 16 nights in May 2022

About the host

Hosted by Andrew Ford

Host profile image

Why they chose this property

Even now nearly 14 years later I still remember the first time we saw the canyon like it was yesterday. It was completely by accident. One Saturday I happened to be working as a real estate agent showing a friend homes in the area. Wanting Rhonda to get to know his family better, for the 1st time in 12 years I brought her along on an appointment with me.

In an attempt to take a short cut to the next house we tried to go through the canyon. As soon as I saw the for sale sign, we stopped so I could get out. The place was completely captivating unlike any other I'd ever seen in Tucson after living here for 40 years and seeing more than a 1000 homes in my 12 year career.

After seeing so many homes it was surprising that only 5 homes or so were truly memorable. This was something that I continued to wonder about throughout my time as an agent. What made those few homes so charming?

We were fortunate to win the property from a competing buyer. Since then we've come to regard ourselves as custodians of this valuable resource including the plants and wildlife it is home to.

In 2008 during an annual family retreat when we gather together to celebrate the past year and share our visions for the coming year, one of our goals was to build a home that our family could use to carry on our tradition.

For 10 years we had been collecting ideas for our dream home largely from multi million dollar homes throughout Arizona that we wanted to somehow incorporate into our more modest budget.

During project planning once again I returned to the question of the source of indefinable charm that only 5 homes in a thousand possess. A builder friend recommended the work of architect Christopher Alexander who studied some of the most loved buildings throughout time in an effort to capture that special quality that makes these structures so appealing.

What makes this property unique

Alexander ultimately came to describe this quality as wholeness. Wholeness guided the design of the Firelight Casita with the intent of establishing a strong connection between people, places, and nature. Ageless design elements that span the history of humanity create a sense of belonging of the home to it's surroundings.

According to Alexander there are 151 patterns that form a timeless way of building. So far we've been able to incorporate 112 of them. Hints of the pattern language are included with your welcome email. During your stay see how many you can identify.

Languages:

English

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