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  • The Rancho Merlita Ranch House Bed and Breakfast living room is unique with a dramatic radial wood beam ceiling, handcrafted stone fireplace, and picture windows showcasing the Santa Catalina Mountains of Tucson, Arizona.
    • Nightly Rate $99 - $295
      ,
    • Reviews 6  
    • Rooms 8
    • Accepts Gift Cards

    • Address 1924 N. Corte El Rancho Merlita
      Tucson, AZ 85715
      USA
    • Phone+1-520-495-0071
    • Toll free+1-888-218-8418
    • EmailContact Innkeeper
    Inn's website

    Where New West Style meets Old West Hospitality! Go back in time as you enter the historic 1950’s Tucson Ranch House and estate built by Merle Norman. Carved wood beams, rope trim, and hand hewn local rock fireplaces make our East side Tucson B&B a vintage western experience. Relax under deep shaded porches, stroll the paths to the swimming pool and stargaze from our spa. This Tucson Bed and Breakfast offers a unique marriage of luxury and comfort defined by Arizona’s rich hospitality heritage.

    Professionally Inspected

    Diamond Collection Inspected and Certified

    Reviews

    Score Breakdown based on 6 Reviews

    4.8 out of 5
     
    • Guest room  5
    • Services  5
    • Value  5
    • Cleanliness  5
    • Dining  5

    Explanation of Our Ratings

      Outstanding
      Exceeded my expectations
      Met my expectations
      Okay, but below average
      Unsatisfactory
    4.8 out of 5
     

    Very Relaxing Stay

    March 27, 2013

    After putting in many long hours at work, I was looking for a vacation where I could unwind. The five days we spent at Rancho Merlita were just the medicine the doctor ordered. The Merle Norman Suite was very spacious with lovely decorations, a fireplace, and a wonderful private patio. The bathroom was huge with a large steam shower and whirlpool tub. The grounds are very spacious and they provide many self-starting activities (Ping-Pong, Darts, etc.). We spent an evening with a big fire in the fire pit watching the stars. Patti was an excellent hostess providing very delicious breakfasts for us. She made sure she spent time with each guest to chat about their plans for the day and to provide extremely helpful information to make those day trips even better. We asked Patti to setup a massage for my wife and myself and the Mitsy was a delight. We would go back to Rancho Merlita in a heartbeat.

    5 out of 5
     

    A Remarkable Place to Stay!

    September 27, 2012

    We spent time on the web searching for the perfect B&B, and this was it! Our room was terrific, but the community spaces were magnificent. You can't believe the north view of the Catalina mountains, whether from the living room, the front veranda, or your own room. It is spectacular as the mountain changes with the light and shadows. The Inn is set back within a gated expanse of natural mature desert, but has a beautiful front lawn, a great swimming pool and a hot tub made for relaxing. The morning breakfasts we had both days were delicious. The first day included blue corn pancakes with prickly pear or mesquite bean syrup and chicken sausage. The second day we had fruit smoothies and the best chilequilles I have every had. We ate breakfast on the back patio with hummingbirds and a variety of small birds feasting on cactus fruits for company. After a day of sightseeing around Tucson, we came back to refreshing prickly pear lemonade and delicious ginger-cornmeal cookies. We hated to leave, but we'll be back.

    5 out of 5
     

    An outstanding place to stay

    June 24, 2012

    Why stay in a motel when you can stay in luxury at this B&B. The grounds, the rooms, the pool, the decorating are all first rate. You are near the city but feel away from civilization on this 2 1/2 acre property. Wild life abounds and entertained us during every breakfast. I kept jumping up and down to take pictures. We saw a great horned owl taking a bath in the sprinklers, a hawk liked to sit on the fountain in the back, quail families with tiny babies walked all around. Patty is a gracious hostess and cooks gourmet breakfasts. She is also knowledgeable about the area and has suggestions of restaurants, activites, etc. We enjoyed massages while we were there in a little house on the back of the property. I felt pampered, Each day we enjoyed a swim in the crystal clear warm waters of the pool

    5 out of 5
     

    Luxurious desert retreat

    April 20, 2010

    Luxury is the main theme at this four room bed and breakfast converted from the 1950’s ranch house built by cosmetic magnate, Merle Norman. Each room is beautifully designed to represent a theme and the common areas are equally, if not more, wonderful. Amenities abound here, from the gorgeous salt water swimming pool, to the pool-side hot tub, to the game and exercise room, to the massage and yoga cottage, to the Native American inspired labyrinth. Guests also can take pleasure in the attention to detail evident in the gorgeous landscaping, the branded tableware and the beautifully apportioned patios, where one can enjoy a moment of repose in the afternoon with a glass of prickly pear lemon aid and homemade cookies provided by innkeeper, Pattie Bell. Ms. Bell also whips up gourmet breakfasts which include such delights as blue corn pancakes with prickly pear syrup, spanakopita, and Mexican style quiche called chilequiles, all washed down with a specially prepared blend of coffee that is sure to please even the most discerning coffee snob. The inn faces north, with a wonderful view of the Catalina Mountains, so while the exquisiteness of the ranch house may tempt you to hang around all day, the city of Tucson and the hiking opportunities afforded by the nearby Sabino Canyon recreation area beckon one to leave the property, at least for a few hours.


    Location

    Innkeeper Information

    Innkeeper(s)

    Pattie Bell

    Innkeepers Description:

    Pattie brings 35 years of hospitality experience to the Ranch, twenty of them managing Bed and Breakfast Inns in Arizona. Her freshly prepared breakfasts and afternoon treats will knock your boots off, with special needs graciously accommodated. Take advantage of her designation as a Certified Tourism Ambassador when planning your itinerary.

    The innkeepers speak:

    • Some Spanish

    • English

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  • Rooms & Rates

    • Nightly Rate $99 - $295

    Policy

    Reservation Policy

    • Check In: 3-6 PM    Check Out: 11 AM

    • Minimum Stay: Minimum stays may be required for weekends and holidays.

    • Deposit Amount Required: Reservations guaranteed by credit cards.

    • Cancellations: 14 days notice required. $25 fee for all cancellations.

    • Open All Year Round: Yes


    General Policies

    • Smoking Allowed: Limited

    • Guest Pets Allowed: No

    • Drinking Allowed: Yes

    • Drinking Description: Guests may consume alcoholic beverages. None provided.

    • Drinks Available: No

    • Children Allowed: Suitable for children 12 and older.

    • Suitable For Children: Limited

    • Childcare Provided: No

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  • Reviews

    Score Breakdown based on 6 Reviews

    4.8 out of 5
     
    • Guest room  5
    • Services  5
    • Value  5
    • Cleanliness  5
    • Dining  5

    Explanation of Our Ratings

      Outstanding
      Exceeded my expectations
      Met my expectations
      Okay, but below average
      Unsatisfactory
    4.8 out of 5
     

    Very Relaxing Stay

    March 27, 2013

    After putting in many long hours at work, I was looking for a vacation where I could unwind. The five days we spent at Rancho Merlita were just the medicine the doctor ordered. The Merle Norman Suite was very spacious with lovely decorations, a fireplace, and a wonderful private patio. The bathroom was huge with a large steam shower and whirlpool tub. The grounds are very spacious and they provide many self-starting activities (Ping-Pong, Darts, etc.). We spent an evening with a big fire in the fire pit watching the stars. Patti was an excellent hostess providing very delicious breakfasts for us. She made sure she spent time with each guest to chat about their plans for the day and to provide extremely helpful information to make those day trips even better. We asked Patti to setup a massage for my wife and myself and the Mitsy was a delight. We would go back to Rancho Merlita in a heartbeat.

    5 out of 5
     

    A Remarkable Place to Stay!

    September 27, 2012

    We spent time on the web searching for the perfect B&B, and this was it! Our room was terrific, but the community spaces were magnificent. You can't believe the north view of the Catalina mountains, whether from the living room, the front veranda, or your own room. It is spectacular as the mountain changes with the light and shadows. The Inn is set back within a gated expanse of natural mature desert, but has a beautiful front lawn, a great swimming pool and a hot tub made for relaxing. The morning breakfasts we had both days were delicious. The first day included blue corn pancakes with prickly pear or mesquite bean syrup and chicken sausage. The second day we had fruit smoothies and the best chilequilles I have every had. We ate breakfast on the back patio with hummingbirds and a variety of small birds feasting on cactus fruits for company. After a day of sightseeing around Tucson, we came back to refreshing prickly pear lemonade and delicious ginger-cornmeal cookies. We hated to leave, but we'll be back.

    5 out of 5
     

    An outstanding place to stay

    June 24, 2012

    Why stay in a motel when you can stay in luxury at this B&B. The grounds, the rooms, the pool, the decorating are all first rate. You are near the city but feel away from civilization on this 2 1/2 acre property. Wild life abounds and entertained us during every breakfast. I kept jumping up and down to take pictures. We saw a great horned owl taking a bath in the sprinklers, a hawk liked to sit on the fountain in the back, quail families with tiny babies walked all around. Patty is a gracious hostess and cooks gourmet breakfasts. She is also knowledgeable about the area and has suggestions of restaurants, activites, etc. We enjoyed massages while we were there in a little house on the back of the property. I felt pampered, Each day we enjoyed a swim in the crystal clear warm waters of the pool

    5 out of 5
     

    Luxurious desert retreat

    April 20, 2010

    Luxury is the main theme at this four room bed and breakfast converted from the 1950’s ranch house built by cosmetic magnate, Merle Norman. Each room is beautifully designed to represent a theme and the common areas are equally, if not more, wonderful. Amenities abound here, from the gorgeous salt water swimming pool, to the pool-side hot tub, to the game and exercise room, to the massage and yoga cottage, to the Native American inspired labyrinth. Guests also can take pleasure in the attention to detail evident in the gorgeous landscaping, the branded tableware and the beautifully apportioned patios, where one can enjoy a moment of repose in the afternoon with a glass of prickly pear lemon aid and homemade cookies provided by innkeeper, Pattie Bell. Ms. Bell also whips up gourmet breakfasts which include such delights as blue corn pancakes with prickly pear syrup, spanakopita, and Mexican style quiche called chilequiles, all washed down with a specially prepared blend of coffee that is sure to please even the most discerning coffee snob. The inn faces north, with a wonderful view of the Catalina Mountains, so while the exquisiteness of the ranch house may tempt you to hang around all day, the city of Tucson and the hiking opportunities afforded by the nearby Sabino Canyon recreation area beckon one to leave the property, at least for a few hours.

    4.6 out of 5
     

    Loved our Romantic Weekend

    March 31, 2010

    Wow. My husband and I took a last-minute trip to Tucson for a weekend getaway, and our decision to stay at El Rancho Merlita really made our much-needed weekend away wonderful. I'm picky about lodging, and I was really impressed. The ranch and each of the rooms are beautifully decorated and meticulously kept. Furthermore, we had every amenity we could want. This is probably our favorite B&B to date!

    4.2 out of 5
     

    A Beautiful Oasis in Tucson!

    March 31, 2010

    We had spent several days agonizing over the best place to stay in Tucson. I was reared in a country inn, and we have stayed in B&B's from California and Washington to Maine and Washington, D.C. We were not disappointed in El Rancho Merlita. It was romantic and elegant, and we only wish we had more time to spend there! Meryl Norman's suite is well worth it! We also recommend dinner at "The Dish". It was a unique and fabulous experience - worth the 20 minute drive!


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  • Location Type

    • Eastside Tucson

    • Mount Lemmmon

    • Sabino Canyon

    • Desert

    • Mountains

    • Ranch

    City - Tucson

    • Directions to property:

    Airport

    • Tucson, AZ (TUS) 15 miles

    • Directions to property:
      From Airport take Tucson Blvd. to RIGHT on Valencia Rd. - LEFT on N.Kolb Road - RIGHT on E.Speedway Blvd. - LEFT on N.Pantano Rd. - RIGHT on E.Wrightstown Rd. - RIGHT on Corte Tomasin to Rancho Merlita Gate.


    Area Attractions

    • Antique Shopping

    • Art Galleries

    • Casino

    • Concert venue

    • Gourmet/Fine Dining

    • Historical interests

    • Live Music

    • Movie Theater

    • Museum

    • National/State parks

    • Nature area

    • Arizona Sonora Desert Museum

    • University of Arizona

    • Sabino Canyon Recreation Area

    • Tucson Museum of Art

    • Saguaro National Park East & West

    • Mount Lemmon

    • Performing Theater

    • Picnic area

    • Religious Services

    • Rodeo

    • Ruins

    • Ski area

    • Vineyard

    • Winery

    • Zoo

    • Bicycle rental

    • Bicycle riding trails

    • Billiards

    • Bird watching

    • Cross-country ski trails

    • Downhill Skiing

    • Fishing

    • Golfing

    • Hiking trails

    • Horseback riding

    • Horseshoes

    • Hunting

    • Mountain Bike trails

    • Shopping

    • Sight-seeing

    • Ski rentals

    • Snow shoe rental

    • Snow shoe trails

    • Swimming

    • Swimming pool

    • Tennis courts

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  • Amenities

    Type:

    • Bed and Breakfast

    • Guest Ranch

    • Historic Inn

    Property highlights

    • All-inclusive Value

    • Exceptional Linens, Decor, and Amenities

    • Gracious Western Hospitality

    • Outdoor Activities

    • Regional Cuisine

    • Swimming Pool and Spa

    • Excellent views

    • Group events

    • Honeymoons

    • Luxury

    • Peaceful getaway

    • Romantic escape

    On-site

    • BBQ grill

    • Board games

    • Ceiling fans

    • Computer

    • Conference Rooms

    • Copier

    • In-room internet

    • Fax Machine

    • Library

    • Telephone

    Guest room(s)

    • Air conditioning

    • Alarm clock

    • Amenities Basket

    • Bath robes

    • CD player

    • DVD Player

    • Desk

    • Fireplace

    • Fridge

    • Hairdryer

    • Hot tub/whirlpool tub

    • Internet Service

    • Ironing Board

    • Private entrance

    • Radio

    • Satellite/Cable TV

    • TV

    • Wi-Fi

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  • Breakfast

    • Type: Full

    • Time Served: 8:00 - 9:00 AM

    • Serving Location: Breakfast/dining area

    Signature Dish

    A Locavore's Delight!
    We provide a unique regional dining experience by serving freshly prepared dishes made with local ingredients and exceptional hand-crafted products.

    Special meal options

    • Low fat

    • Restrictive

    • Vegetarian

    Additional food services

    • A variety of afternoon treats!

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