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Phoenix/Scottsdale Casita Retreat - Enjoy the Peace of the High Sonoran Desert

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Casita Retreat facing the morning sun!
Casita Retreat in the Stillness of the desert.
Private kitchen
Private kitchen
Looking East from the Casita Kitchen.

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 265.0 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue

Explore the area

View map
Rio Verde, AZ
  • Place, McDowell Mountain Regional Park
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, Tonto Verde Golf Club
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Airport, Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)
    ‪62 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Dining area

About this property

Phoenix/Scottsdale Casita Retreat - Enjoy the Peace of the High Sonoran Desert

Come Visit the Great Beauty of the High Sonoran Desert near Phoenix, North Scottsdale, Cave Creek, and Fountain Hills. This studio home is elegantly finished with Travertine floors, a gourmet chef's kitchen, a marble spa shower bathroom, and wonderful views overlooking the Rio Verde River Valley and out across the Tonto National Forest to the high mountains and Four Peaks. Located just 12 miles north from Fountain Hills, 12 miles from North Scottsdale and 25 miles from Phoenix. Very private home built in neo-territorial design inspired by avant garde architects of history. Built as a second story home on 1.25 acres, there is an eagle's eye view in all directions from two decks. Stars at night are close enough to count. Hike in the desert and make friends with the families of Saguaro Cactus - the Angel Guardians of the desert. Easy access from Rio Verde Drive a major highway and only a few blocks from the main paved road. One block from the Tonto National Forest with miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horses! Two miles to the beautiful Rio Verde River! 10 minutes to World Class Golf courses at Trilogy, Tonto Verde, Rio Verde, and even Cave Creek & North Scottsdale Courses! A quiet studio apartment/home yet it is still just 15 minutes to shopping in Fountain Hills or North Scottsdale, groceries, restaurants, services and more.
A one block walk from the deck and you are enfolded in the Peace of the Sonoran Desert, the Saguaro Cactus and the Tonto Nat'l forest.
This is a "Casita" or small house and it really is 1 large Studio room with Kitchen, Living, and Queen Bed (there is an Aerobed if specially needed), a marble bathroom, a utiliy room, and closet space. It is a unique & elegant space, and is kept immaculately clean and shiny.

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  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (8 reviews)
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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:30 AM
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Children

Adults only
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No shoes in house. No drugs, vapors, marijuana. Alcohol in healthy levels. Please use squeegee after showering. Request oven use. Use bar coasters.
COVID CHECKOUT POLICY FOR GUESTS under Amenities. A custom here out west…“leave it better than you found it". Thank you for your help!
Now, more than ever, we need to also protect our staff. By you going the extra mile leaving no trace, our staff can feel more confident as they work.

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
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
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

About the area

Rio Verde

Located in Rio Verde Foothills, a neighbourhood in Rio Verde, this holiday home is in a rural area. Tonto National Forest and McDowell Mountain Regional Park reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include George "Doc" Cavalliere Park and Fountain Hills Botanical Garden. Break out the clubs and hit the links on a nearby golf course, or seek out an adventure with rock climbing, hiking and ecotours.
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Map
Rio Verde, AZ

What's nearby

  • McDowell Mountain Regional Park - 8 min drive - 5.3 km
  • Tonto Verde Golf Club - 9 min drive - 8.3 km
  • Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center - 10 min drive - 8.3 km
  • Vista Verde Golf Course - 10 min drive - 9.4 km
  • Tom's Thumb Trail - 14 min drive - 13.2 km

Getting around

  • Mesa, AZ (MSC-Falcon Field Municipal) - 59 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Needle Rock Kitchen And Tap - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪The Clubhouse at Tonto Verde - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Honey And Sol - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Bartlett Lake Grill LLC (dba) The Last Stop Bar and Grill - ‬66 min drive
  • ‪The Verde Pub - ‬15 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Phoenix/Scottsdale Casita Retreat - Enjoy the Peace of the High Sonoran Desert pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Phoenix/Scottsdale Casita Retreat - Enjoy the Peace of the High Sonoran Desert?

As of 3 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Phoenix/Scottsdale Casita Retreat - Enjoy the Peace of the High Sonoran Desert on 30 September 2026 start from NZ$231, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Phoenix/Scottsdale Casita Retreat - Enjoy the Peace of the High Sonoran Desert?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Phoenix/Scottsdale Casita Retreat - Enjoy the Peace of the High Sonoran Desert?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Phoenix/Scottsdale Casita Retreat - Enjoy the Peace of the High Sonoran Desert?

Checkout is at 10:30 AM.

Where is Phoenix/Scottsdale Casita Retreat - Enjoy the Peace of the High Sonoran Desert located?

Located in Rio Verde Foothills, this holiday home is 0.2 mi (0.4 km) from Tonto National Forest and within 6 miles (10 km) of McDowell Mountain Regional Park and Tonto Verde Golf Club. Tom's Thumb Trail and Golf Club Scottsdale are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

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. 64 out of 68 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 68 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 68 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 68 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 68 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kjersten D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This beautiful casita is in a peaceful, quiet neighborhood with incredible views. Neil and Linda are gracious hosts. It’s the perfect winter retreat.
Stayed 60 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

SHAWN M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property and very responsive owners. We enjoyed our stay
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mike N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This property is everything you can hope for. It was very clean and well maintained. Communication with the owner was easy and quick. The Casita is very well constructed with high quality craftsmanship.We will be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gregory I.

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

4-Night Stay in March

Perfect setting for a quite Spring Break!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeanne C.

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

Serene Casita

This casita is beautifully furnished. It’s a great place for a quiet relaxing get away. Neil is quick to respond and very helpful.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ann W.

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

Loved the Casita

This property was a great find for us. We enjoyed the views of the 4 peaks mountains and the Tonto National Forest. It was quiet, serene, and yet a short drive to everything.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Leigh-Ann L.

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

Peaceful & Relaxing

We loved everything about this beautiful casita. Neil and Linda are exceptional hosts and their property exceeded our expectations ! It was the perfect place in an incredible setting for our much needed break.
Stayed 8 nights in Apr 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lorraine W.

Peaceful, relaxing and quiet

We loved staying at this Casita. Beautifully furnished and immaculate. We enjoyed sitting on the deck listening to and watching nature, beautiful sunsets over the mountains. Would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Todd B.

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

Amazing & Unique Desert Casita

This was our second stay at this Casita. It is located in a remote neighborhood on the very edge of the Tonto National Forest. Very quiet and relaxing with amazing views. Neil & Linda are very friendly and helpful hosts. Wish we could have stayed longer!
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kristin B.

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

Beautiful views from a special property

My husband and I enjoyed watching the sun go down and the light recede from the mountains. We took a couple of short walks to the road that borders the Tonto National Forrest in the early morning and evening. The vegetation was remarkable and the road was an easy, pleasant walk.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robyn C.

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

Amazing!

Beautiful property! Peaceful desert setting surrounded by mountains. Nice golf courses, restaurants and shopping in the vicinity. Wonderful experience from beginning to end!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Frank E.

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

Stilt House

Third year and enjoyable as always.
Stayed 35 nights in Jan 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gina D.

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

Beautiful place, beautiful views!

The casita was a perfect getaway place for our long weekend. We are going to miss watching the sunrise behind Four Peaks! The hosts keep the place immaculate and have everything you need in the gorgeous kitchen. Thanks for a great stay, Neil and Linda!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marina S.

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

Magical

Morning coffee with the rising sun and panoramic views of mountains are amazing.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kjersten D.

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

Desert solitaire

The casita is a beautiful retreat in a quiet neighborhood within close proximity to endless hiking, biking or running trails. The view of 4 peaks and the surrounding mountains is breathtaking. The perfect spot for people wanting a quiet retreat with great access to the Tonto national forest. Linda and Neil are the perfect hosts; very attentive and friendly, but never intrusive. It was perfect!
Stayed 56 nights in Jan 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Darby V.

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

Recharge your batteries

This property is amazing if you are looking to get away from it all and relax in a quiet atmosphere. I cannot recommend it enough! Neil and Linda are great hosts and have an amazing casita.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Anne F.

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

Desert Getaway

The views from this fabulous casita are stunning. Extremely clean. Loved the high end finishes. The bathroom is spa like. So relaxing and quiet. Plenty of roads and trails to walk on. Highly recommend.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Frank E.

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

Second year

What a wonderful experience, thanks Noel and Linda.
Stayed 31 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Glen R.

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

With many thanks!!

We came down from Minneapolis to celebrate my wife's 60th birthday and relax. Everything went perfect. Beautiful little home and fantastic location under the stars. Neil and Linda were fantastic. Home was Everything we wished for. We would definitely stay here again. Glen and Carole
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2021
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Debra T.

Peaceful!

What a lovely little place to stay! Watching the colors play across the hills at sunrise and sunset was magical. And the stars at night ....wow! It is a place that brings calmness and peace to your mind. Loved it! Hope to come back. Debra & Michael
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2017
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Roz O.

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

Incredible views of the surrounding mountains in an awesome location away from the crowds.

Wake up to the sunrise over four peaks mountains and Weaver's needle while sipping coffee in your chair in front of large picture windows. Beautiful colorful sunsets on the mountains to the west and a BBQ top off the experience. At night we turned off the lights and stargazed with the mountain outlines visible in the horizon. We were even visited by a great horned owl! Central location for hiking. Impeccable interior detailing and materials throughout the casita. And wow, the price is right!
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ken R.

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

Five stars is not enough.

- The setting is glorious. - The casita is glorious. - The views to the horizon are yet more glorious. - The skies at dawn and dusk are persistently off the top of the glorious scale. - Neil and Linda are attentive, charming, and graceful hosts. The only criticism I offer is that the photos here on VRBO do not do the casita, its setting, or its views justice. - Not that photos could do the experience justice, in any case.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2019
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Ken R.

Wonderful light. Wonderful presence. Comfortable. Views to soothe the soul.

Creeping dawn and sunrise in the east, through the glass doors, across the deck, lasts forever. Stay in bed to savor it for hours. The interior is smart, clean, personal, and welcoming. Comfortable seating inside for evening reading. The deck is sheltered from late day and setting sun, and the vista east to the mountains is graceful, grand, and eye-filling. Eat dinner on the deck. Everything for comfort and quiet, with a location and view to make everything else seem unimportant. We will return, and will direct our friends to admire with envy your casita online.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2017
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Victor J.

It was a match made in Heaven…

I found this property while planning a week-long trip to Phoenix/Sedona area for Hiking and Photography. The Casita is unlike any other you’ve seen. Every detail inside and out was well thought out and custom-built by an Architect (Enjoyed the story from Linda and Neil of how they found the Casita and of the builder). Beautiful trail through the desert down to the Rio Verde River right outside your door (4-mile round-trip all the way to river). Very remote location, but only 15 minutes from Scottsdale. I got up early each morning to sit on the deck and watch the sunrise over the vista while listening to the birds and coyote’s in the distance. Neil let me know a way I could hike down to the River where it is very private. After hiking a short distance when I walked around a bend, to my astonishment, there were 3 wild horses! A beautiful black Stallion, a gorgeous tan Mare and her young Filly. Took some amazing pictures! Linda and Neil were great hosts and even nicer people…
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robert A.

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

2 weeks in Rio Verda

Clean and as advertised…
Stayed 15 nights in Feb 2022

About the host

Hosted by Neil & Linda Kremer

Host profile image
Neil & Linda have worked in the Natural Health field for 30+ years. They also run MontanaCabinRetreats along the Yellowstone River just north of Yellowstone National Park.

Why they chose this property

Neil & Linda have both come to love this special natural area of the unique high sonoran desert. It rings with a special tranquility and vitality and life.

What makes this property unique

Natural Beauty, Peace, Vistas, Stars, Sunrises & Sunsets. The most wonderful hikes right from the front door.

Languages:

English, French
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