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Unique historic property near U of A with a beautiful garden, 4 BR/4BA, pool/spa

Unique historic property near U of A with a beautiful garden, 4 BR/4BA, pool/spa

Photo gallery for Unique historic property near U of A with a beautiful garden, 4 BR/4BA, pool/spa

Pool large enough to swim laps.
We've kept this lawn, for now. We love it, as do kids!
The long porch faces east and has a great view of the Catalina Montains!
Two outdoor dining areas, for 6 on the front porch, and for 10 on side porch.
Breakfast in Tucson...

Overview of Unique historic property near U of A with a beautiful garden, 4 BR/4BA, pool/spa

Reviews
9.6 out of 10 Exceptional
4 bedrooms4 bathroomsSleeps 8204 sq m

Popular amenities

  • PoolPoolPool
  • Pet-friendlyPet-friendlyPet-friendly
  • Hot tubHot tubHot tub
  • FireplaceFireplaceFireplace
  • Free WiFiFree WiFiFree WiFi
  • WasherWasherWasher

Explore the area

Map
Tucson, AZ
  • Popular LocationTucson Botanical Gardens3 min drive
  • Popular LocationUniversity of Arizona6 min drive
  • Popular LocationTucson Mall10 min drive
  • AirportTucson, AZ (TUS-Tucson Intl.)23 min drive

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Baby crib

1 Single Futon

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Guest house bedroom

1 King Bed

Living Room 2

1 Double Sofa Bed

Living Room 3

1 Double Sofa Bed

Master Bedroom

1 King Bed

Master Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

4 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Bathroom 3

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Guest house Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

Unique historic property near U of A with a beautiful garden, 4 BR/4BA, pool/spa

This charming property is centrally located in Tucson 10 minutes from the University of Arizona. The property is entirely walled by a 7 foot fence and remote controlled entrance gates, offering safety, isolation, and security. It has a large private desert garden and a long front porch where you can sit or dine outside and enjoy the mountain views. The porch faces four majestic and ancient saguaros and a variety of citrus trees and native desert plant life. Enjoy the nonstop bird action and take a dip in the pool or jacuzzi!

EV charging capability inside gates. 240v nema 14-50 outlet!

The house was part of an artist's colony that was originally constructed in the early 1940's when this part of town was still completely undeveloped with virgin cactus and the lush desert oasis character that defines Tucson.

As Tucson evolved, the artist's colony was subdivided, but this property remained a rare 2/3’s acre lot that preserves a desert feel right in central Tucson !

We have kept the Tucson spirit alive in the house with antiques and art and a garden that still has a wild character to it. Native creosote bushes abound on the property, which many developers used to just tear up. They are now protected, are quite ancient, and give the desert it's unique smell during rain.

The house sits on a little hill and is completely surrounded by a seven foot fence, so it floats somewhat above the neighbourhood and gives unobstructed views to the north and east of the nearby Catalina mountains and foothills. A truly unique experience of an 'old Tucson' gem in northeast central Tucson that also gives a feeling of security and privacy.

Sit on the front porch and enjoy the view of the Catalina Mountains, or take a dip in the luxurious stone-decked pool. The giant saguaro cacti, and we have three jumbos, are the main attraction of the garden (and one of the main reasons we bought the house!) They are ancient and majestic, and 150 years old plus. The saguaros and mediterranean trees, orange and lemon trees and roses invite birds of all sorts to this quiet natural sanctuary, where all the best Tucson attractions are at your fingertips. Bird seed provided and we encourage the guests to feed the birds. And the rabbits too (though they eat the grass!)

Also enjoy the luxury memory foam beds inside designed for a perfect sleep.

The property has a main house and a guest house. The main house has two master bedrooms, each with a king bed and its own attached bathroom with shower. There is a smaller bedroom with a queen bed and closet without an attached bathroom. However there is a third bathroom with its own shower in the main house off the living room. Each bedroom has its own door that opens on to the front or back garden. Hence four bathrooms total.

The guest house has a king bed, living room with its own cable tv, outside sitting area, and kitchen (refrigerator and microwave and seating area) The guest house has its own bathroom with shower. There are also two sleepable sofas in the guest house, as well as an inflatable.

Entirely walled, the property protects small children and dogs from wandering off the property.

The pool and oversized jacuzzi can be heated upon request and subject to weather conditions for an additional charge. In the wintertime we advise just heating the jacuzzi. We stop heating the pool on November 1 through March 1 as the nighttime temps are often below 40 degrees, even though the days can be above 70 degrees! That's the desert. The charge to heat the jacuzzi is $40 per day, the pool $60 per day. These are billed as supplemental invoices after a booking is completed and are charged in advance.

The side patio has a Weber propane grill and bar/seating area for dinner parties up to 10 plus.

50 channels of Cox-provided cable television, broadband WiFi throughout the property, and a CD/tape stereo are provided, along with a decent library of CD’s. There is a large private library stocked with a variety of nonfiction and fiction titles. Not to mention a sizeable collection of Betty and Veronica and Archie comic books for the young ones.

Nest thermostat controlled heating/air conditioning in the main house via a powerful Trane HVAC unit recently installed.

There are various sitting areas around the property, including a sitting area in front of a Mexican cheminea for outside fires. Wood is provided, mesquite, eucalyptus, and white pine.

Ideally located just minutes from the University of Arizona, La Paloma and Lowes Ventana golf courses, the Tucson Tennis and Racquet Club, Refkin Tennis Center, Gem Show and Spring Training venues, it is also close to some of the city’s best restaurants and shopping places.

Tucson is becoming a bike city, there are dedicated bike paths everywhere. The house is 5-10 minutes from the Riilto Wash bike path, the longest and most known bike path that cuts for 15 miles plus through the center of Tucson and then loops all the way around Tucson for serious bikers. We find biking on the streets around the house and over to the shopping/restaurants on Campbell very easy as the streets are unusually wide and have very little traffic. Its a 15-20 minute ride to the University of Arizona campus. A cyclist's paradise! Bike to the Riilto Park Saturday farmer's market or to the Roasting Sage Coffee shop (voted best in town!).

Select grocery shopping at the Rincon Market /AJ's/Trader Joe's and the city’s best farmers’ market at St. Phillips Plaza. The new (and massive!) Whole Foods at River and Craycroft is 15 minutes from the house, and also reachable by the Riilto bike path. Upscale dining options include Vivace, Hacienda del Sol (voted #1 in Tucson) and Acacia restaurant. And local favorite El Corral. Don't miss the antiques on Country club ..., and Sammy's Sonoran hot dog stand at Country Club and Grant.

Perfect for families with children. The large pool, big enough for laps, is designed to safety codes with surrounding fence and closing child-proof (5 and under) gate.

Convenient, affordable, and accessible day care options within ten minutes of the address.

Night-life at the historic Hotel Congress, Rialto Theater and Centennial Hall’s fine arts performances will keep you more than entertained. When you’re ready for adventure, take a day trip to Mt. Lemmon, Sabino Canyon or Saguaro National Park.

You will love the confort, privacy, and convenience of this wonderful Tucson vacation getaway.


Keywords: Tucson, vacation, rental, vacation rental, arizona, house, private pool, garden, central Tucson, u of a, ua, charm, confort, family, private, luxury, near university of arizona

Property manager

Robert
Premier Host
Premier Host

Amenities

Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 30
Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed
Unless agreed

Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
Please discuss with us and note pet fee.

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking is allowed outside on the porch!
We require the VRBO "Verified Identity" badge to book and a follow up conversation with the renter within 5 days after booking.
No parties or entertaining groups over 10 people without permission from the hosts.
We do not accept local Tucson (area 520) bookings without a conversation beforehand with the host.

Damage and incidentals

You will be responsible for any damage to the rental property caused by you or your party during your stay.

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
Note from host: Unless agreed
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
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 20757380

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Tucson

This holiday home is located in St. Francis Cabrini, a neighbourhood in Tucson. Pima Air and Space Museum is a popular attraction and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Sabino Canyon and Saguaro National Park. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Tucson Convention Center or McKale Center. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Tucson, AZ

What's nearby

  • Tucson Botanical Gardens - 3 min drive
  • University of Arizona - 6 min drive
  • Arizona Stadium - 8 min drive
  • Tucson Mall - 10 min drive
  • Reid Park Zoo - 10 min drive

Getting around

  • Tucson Station - 11 min drive
  • Tohono Transit Center - 12 min drive
  • Tucson International Airport (TUS) - 21 min drive

Restaurants

  • Taco Bell - 17 min walk
  • Jack In The Box - 18 min walk
  • Culinary Dropout - 4 min drive
  • Fort Lowell Depot Bar & Grill - 8 min walk
  • Filiberto's Mexican Food - 3 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Unique historic property near U of A with a beautiful garden, 4 BR/4BA, pool/spa have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

Is Unique historic property near U of A with a beautiful garden, 4 BR/4BA, pool/spa pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

What time is check-in at Unique historic property near U of A with a beautiful garden, 4 BR/4BA, pool/spa?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Unique historic property near U of A with a beautiful garden, 4 BR/4BA, pool/spa?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Unique historic property near U of A with a beautiful garden, 4 BR/4BA, pool/spa located?

Located in St. Francis Cabrini, this holiday home is 1.4 mi (2.3 km) from Tucson Botanical Gardens and 2.7 mi (4.4 km) from University of Arizona. The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures and San Pedro Chapel are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

9.6

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. 92 out of 109 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 12 out of 109 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 109 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 109 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 109 reviews" "

9.2/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.4/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Carol T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful Tucson Retreat
Especially loved the peaceful veranda, which was a wonderful spot to have coffee, relax, and watch the birds.
Stayed 34 nights in Feb 2024

8/10 Good

Mike D., West Salem, Wi

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Room for the family.
Our stay was without surprises. The house even had a plug in for electric vehicles. Bring your own plug! I was a bit put off when 1st entering this french farmhouse style home. It seemed a bit neglected. But after a few hours it was quite comfortable, with plenty of room for a family gathering. Very secure property, nice garden. Would rent again if I need the space!
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nicholas H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful Ranch House
Our family has stayed here twice now. The property works well for us, as there's plenty of space for people to spread out. We didn't use the pool, as it was January, but definitely made use of the spa. The long, covered porch was our favorite spot to hang out. From there, we can gaze out on the myriad cactus (including Saguaro) and birds that inhabit them.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Timothy M., Ann Arbor, USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Classic Tucson home w/garden & pool
We loved staying in this classic Tucson home, convenient and comfortable, with a beautiful walled garden, a pool, and a hot tub. The furniture and artwork is all unique and fitting for the Tucson arts scene. We would definitely rent again.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

6/10 Okay

Taylor G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Generally positive
I thought the grounds were lovely, and the property is very conveniently located to many amenities. The hot tub is large, though when I stayed in December it took several hours to come up to temperature - completely understandable, but something to watch out for. The beds were quite comfortable, the kitchen was well stocked with tools and appliances (though no garbage bags that fit the kitchen can) and the house was decorated in a fun, eclectic style. It is a comfortable home. There were some issues with our stay. On arriving, we were informed that the bathroom in the casita had no hot water (though I'm sure it will be fixed). The casita on the property also has no central heat (the host supplied us with a portable radiator which was limited in its usefulness). The wireless network for the house also does not reach the casita. This latter issue is completely understandable, but should have been communicated prior to booking or our stay. Additionally, there was a rainstorm during our stay, and the ceiling in both the main house and the casita leaked filthy water in three of the four bedrooms. These leaks made one bedroom unusable for an evening as water was dripping on the bed. Was the rain storm unusual for Arizona? Absolutely. Do significant rain storms happen in Arizona on occasion? Absolutely. The property owner agreed to offer a small refund for the inconveniences, which I appreciate.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2023

About the host

Hosted by Robert

Host profile image
Tucson is our escape from cold and rainy northern climates. We enjoy it all year round. Christmas, Spring, even the hot summer! As owners we have spent a half dozen Christmases at the house, as well as staying in the house during the hot summer month of June, and the atmospheric monsoon months of July and August. The best kept secret about Tucson? Its great any month of the year! We now have a son at the University of Arizona so even more reason to visit Tucson!

Why they chose this property

We love the convenient central location of this property and the magic of the house and grounds, filled with a peaceful spirit. The property combined easy access to central Tucson activities and life, but a sense of privacy as well with an inside/outside lifestyle that was immersed in nature. The mountain views are spectacular. We were a bit nervous to be isolated far outside of town or in the desert. We know our neighbors in the small community around us. The footprint of the property is almost half/2/3’s an acre, and to find a lot that big is rare in central Tucson. The house was part of an old artist's community built in the early 40's when literally nothing was around. The 150-200 year old saguaros which tower in the garden were there though, and the four of them on the property are rare. The saguaros sealed the deal for us. The property is completely fenced/walled, and sits up on a little hill from the street. From street level the top of the fence is almost 9 feet! So its very private and has the great, unobstructed mountain views.

With Tucson becoming more and more a bike town, the east west bike avenue will be one block from the house and enter service in 2024. Just ten minutes from the house is the Riilto Wash two way paved bike path, loaded with cyclists and joggers. The bike path links to the loop which will take you 360 degrees around Tucson. Heading west on the bike path will take you to the Phillips Outdoor Market and the Riilto Farmer's Market, heading east will take you to Whole Foods.

What makes this property unique

The very large lot with mature desert landscaping make this home a relaxing private retreat. We were able to build an oversized pool area and jacuzzi because of the large lot. The entry gates make for maximum privacy and easy exit/entry. We hope our guests will enjoy it as much as we do.

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