I don't mind driving the hour and a half down to Tucson, especially when I get to stay at the gorgeous Hacienda Del Sol. A little off the beaten path and near the Catalina Mountains, this resort always makes me feel relaxed and away from it all. Add in an opportunity to eat around town and try out some over the top shakes and I'm there!
Hacienda Del Sol is always on point with their friendly staff and even though I got down to the resort late at night, I was still greeted by helpful workers who helped me find my way to my room. The room I stayed in was one of the newer suites that looks out at the mountains. It had one large room with a king bed, sitting area and bathroom and attached to that was another large room with a conference table, bar area, couch and bathroom. I've also stayed in the single king rooms, located in that same area and they are equally as comfortable and have the same gorgeous views.
As I slipped off into sleep that night to the sounds of Real Housewives, I was looking forward to my day of exploring Tucson and enjoying some time at the property.
I threw open the curtains in the morning, took in the vast space outside my balcony and ordered room service. Although a bit chilly, I sat on the very large balcony and breathed in the peacefulness of the nature and my food. One of my favorite things to do on the property is visit the stables. It's true, I'm still horse obsessed and although you can ride the horses, I find it calming to simply watch and pet them. On the way back up to my room, I wandered the property and stumbled upon a yoga session in the courtyard.
There's plenty to do around the property, enjoy the restaurants, spa, pools or other amenities but there is plenty to do in town too. One of the places that was suggested to me was visiting the Sabino Canyon and doing a tour. This was only a few minute drive from the resort and a great spot to spend a morning at. Next time, I would definitely want to do some hiking around the canyon to get a full experience. The area is full of trails, water and lots to see and they have a couple shuttles that go through the canyon and can pick you up and drop you off throughout, as long as you have a ticket.
Now that I had worked up an appetite, it was time to head to a restaurant. It's never easy to decide where to go, especially if you only so much stomach space. This time I decided to try out Mi Nidito Restaurant, which has been rated as a top restaurant in town. If you go, you had better plan to wait a bit for a table. Unless you order to go, like I decided to. I got some chicken tacos, which were the perfect portion and quite tasty.
Time for a coffee break, I had to hit up Presta coffee inside Mercado San Agustin. If you haven't been to this super cute marketplace, you should check it out next time you're in Tucson. They have a couple restaurants, shops and other places to spend some time. I hung out for about an hour at Presta and people watched, listened to live music and walked the farmer's market outside the building. I was killing time in order to make it to the main event!
Zona 78 was having their milkshake preview! I not only got to have a sugar high but we also ordered some of the dishes on the menu. The restaurant was popping with live music and packed with people enjoying happy hour. If you're looking for the most massive and sugary treats in town, hit them up. My fav had to be the horchata shake with churros, salted caramel and cinnamon toast crunch.
Until next time Tucson!
