1. Esplendor Resort At Rio Rico
City: Rio Rico, AZ
Category: Accommodations
Telephone: (520) 281-1901, (800) 288-4746
Address: 1069 Camino Caralampi
Description: You’ll find the magnificent Esplendor Resort in Rio Rico, about 40 minutes south of Tucson. With a distinct European feel, the resort sits atop a hill with a lovely view of the surrounding mountains. The 179 rooms are decorated with Mexican tiles and rustic furnishings, and many have private terraces. A central courtyard houses a pool, sauna, and Jacuzzi. A ballroom and outdoor terrace offer great spaces for weddings or conferences. Golf can be had at the neighboring top-rated 18-hole Robert Trent Jones Sr.–designed golf course. A full service dining room has one of the best views in town, with private curtained banquettes for a romantic touch.
2. Rio Rico Resort Country Club
City: Rio Rico, AZ
Category: Golf
Telephone: (520) 281-8567, (800) 288-4746
Address: 1069 Camino Caralampi
Description: Continue south down I-19 to exit 17, take a left at the stop sign, follow the large terra-cotta markers, and you’ll find Rio Rico Golf Course, one of Arizona’s lesser-known gems. Although the resort itself is on the west side of the interstate, the course is on the east side, meandering through rich pastureland. Golfers here have been known to think they actually were playing in the lush and rolling hills of Arkansas or Tennessee. Fairways are lined with mesquite and cottonwood trees. The classic 18-hole layout designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. welcomes every player with its rolling fairways and large open greens, plus enough sand traps and water hazards to challenge the best. From its longest tees the course measures 7,126 yards, par 72, and rating of 73. Food and beverages are available at the course, as are a practice range and putting green. The cost for 18 holes on the weekend with a cart in peak season is $69. The resort also has popular golf packages.