Apartment

Serene & Secluded - Heart of the Sonoran Desert 62 acre EcoRanch on Natl Forest

Photo gallery for Serene & Secluded - Heart of the Sonoran Desert 62 acre EcoRanch on Natl Forest

Sunrise outside your window, overlooking the pool
View from the barn turnout.
rainbow poolside
yoga at the pool
Pool

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 455 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Breakfast available
  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Hot tub

Explore the area

Map
Scottsdale, AZ
  • Golf Club Scottsdale
    ‪22 min drive‬
  • Troon North Golf Club
    ‪25 min drive‬
  • Boulders Golf Club
    ‪37 min drive‬
  • Scottsdale, AZ (SCF)
    ‪43 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Serene & Secluded - Heart of the Sonoran Desert 62 acre EcoRanch on Natl Forest

Recognized by Million Mile Magazine as one of the top 10 places to celebrate Airbnb's 10th anniversary, and awarded LUX Magazine's 2020 and 2023 winner of "Most Serene Desert Accommodations/Horse Boarding Facility Southwest USA", Casa Rio Rancho is located on site at Rio Rancho Verde, an eco-ranch that is committed to supporting a sustainable environment in the midst of the Sonoran Desert. Additionally, VRBO selected Rio Rancho Verde (one of 5 locations out of 3700 vacation rentals in Scottsdale) to film a social media promotion on YouTube, we've been featured on a Hulu series, booked for a Western film production, music videos, product launches and catalog shoots. We offer a secluded and serene getaway, far from the maddening crowds, surrounded by the most amazing scenery, yet we're only 20 minutes away from fine dining and shopping in North Scottsdale if you want to enjoy the comforts of the city. This relaxing alternative to the fast pace of city life is a welcome retreat in a rural, upscale Western setting. Please note, we do board horses and the owners are on site with them (usually just Jan - March). We also have 2 other Airbnbs here at the ranch so there can sometimes be other people out and about that you may or may not cross paths with.
We offer a private two bedroom suite, (attached to the house, but separated by an insulated wall so there is no access to the main house) with it's own bathroom and desk area. The master suite has a queen bed and the 2nd bedroom has two twin beds, if you need more space, or are traveling with family or friends. There is a separate private entrance and the suite opens to the pool and patio which includes an outdoor kitchen (please note: NO indoor kitchen or living room) and bar area with frig, microwave, counter top convection oven/airfryer/toaster, sink and outdoor BBQ, island with cooktop, fireplace, dining room table and seating on the deck for 55 people, overlooking the pool and the beautiful Sonoran desert. Rate includes both bedrooms for 2 people, we only rent to one party at a time. If you'd like to bring friends or older kids, the 2nd bedroom is $89 per night (for the room, not per person). VRBO hasn't quite mastered charging for reservations that are for 2 people or more, so please check the itemized charges to see if they included the additional $89 per night for a 3rd and/or 4th guest. Additional cleaning fee for 3rd/4th person is $75.00.
Maximum 4 people.
Continental breakfast, served poolside, is available upon request and at an additional cost. Come out and hike, bike or ride a horse (yours are welcome, rentals available at the stables down the road) or just relax and watch the spectacular sunsets on the ridge overlooking the mountains and desert vistas. You can walk right out our gate into the Tonto National Forest, or the Scottsdale McDowell Preserve where you'll find 32,000 acres and 215 miles of the most amazing trails filled with Saguaro cactus and perhaps a coyote or two! Or, just relax and enjoy a glass of wine on the deck overlooking the pool as the sun goes down, or sip your morning coffee in the barn as the horses wait for their breakfast. Suite is available with either one or two bedrooms, one bathroom total. Please note that the pool is not heated and there is no TV. This is truly a unique and very special place, we hope to share it with you!
Pricing is based on two guests - for additional guests (3 - 4 people), there is an $89 per night fee. VRBO is not able to calculate this rate so we will have to edit the quote they send, as it will be incorrect. Cleaning fee is increased by $75 for more than 2 people.
So sorry, not suitable for toddlers or young children.
Pets are allowed (sorry, no cats) with a $75 non-refundable pet fee. Dogs must be crated in the owner's absence unless arrangements are made in advance with owner Dogs must be on a leash around the barns and horses.
Please note it's very dark out here, we adhere to the Dark Skies Ordinance so lighting is minimal.
If you're looking to party hardy, the only ones out here howlin' at the moon are the coyotes....
Also, if the private suite is booked or for additional information about the ranch, please check out our other luxury listings, VRBO # 652267 or VRBO 766813.

Property manager

Carmela Lizzo
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 12:00 PM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 13–17
No toddlers, 6 year old age minimum
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 1 total)
No dogs in pool or on the furniture please
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Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Outside only please
We'll be happy to light the firepit for you, please ask rather than lighting it on your own
Dogs can not run free by the horses or the barn, dogs are not allowed in the pool
No third party bookings.

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
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 and a first aid kit

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Scottsdale

Located in Rio Verde Foothills, a neighbourhood in Scottsdale, this apartment is in a rural area and in the mountains. Golf Club Scottsdale and Troon North - Pinnacle Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit George "Doc" Cavalliere Park and Arizona Powerchutes. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Scottsdale, AZ

What's nearby

  • Golf Club Scottsdale - 22 min drive - 12.5 km
  • Troon North Golf Club - 25 min drive - 16.0 km
  • Boulders Golf Club - 37 min drive - 28.6 km
  • Westworld of Scottsdale - 39 min drive - 31.3 km
  • Mayo Clinic Hospital - 42 min drive - 32.9 km

Getting around

  • Phoenix, AZ (DVT-Phoenix Deer Valley) - 49 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Raven’s View Wine Bar - ‬40 min drive
  • ‪Rosati’S Pizza - ‬23 min drive
  • ‪Pony Express Cafe - ‬23 min drive
  • ‪Apache Clubhouse - ‬43 min drive
  • ‪Cochise Geronimo Clubhouse - ‬47 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Serene & Secluded - Heart of the Sonoran Desert 62 acre EcoRanch on Natl Forest have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

Is Serene & Secluded - Heart of the Sonoran Desert 62 acre EcoRanch on Natl Forest pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total).

What time is check-in at Serene & Secluded - Heart of the Sonoran Desert 62 acre EcoRanch on Natl Forest?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Serene & Secluded - Heart of the Sonoran Desert 62 acre EcoRanch on Natl Forest?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is Serene & Secluded - Heart of the Sonoran Desert 62 acre EcoRanch on Natl Forest located?

This family-friendly Scottsdale apartment building is located in the mountains, steps from Tonto National Forest and within 9 mi (15 km) of George "Doc" Cavalliere Park and Tom's Thumb Trail. Pinnacle Peak Park and Golf Club Scottsdale are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 71 out of 77 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 77 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 77 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 77 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 77 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Becki S.

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

Amazing getaway

We had a lovely stay. It was so quiet and relaxing but with hiking just out the door. Our host gave us a few ideas of what to enjoy around the area and the pool was all ours.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nancy H.

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

Desert Oasis

This place was amazing!! Hiking right out the back door and horseback riding close by.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Erica C.

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

Arizona = Amazing

We had an incredible time at our stay here! A bit off the beat but close enough to explore, hike and horseback ride. Carmela and Joe could not have been nicer and welcomed us so graciously to their home. Thank you for an amazing 50th!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Anna D.

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

Peaceful of Arizona

The place is as good as the pictures. The view doesn't judge; it just wows! The owner is lovely and appreciates the check-in.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dana P.

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

Very relaxed and quiet stay

Property is very peaceful - we enjoyed our stay! We would definitely book again. Beautiful and serene property
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kate P.

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

Our Desert Stay

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at your beautiful ranch. Thank you for your hospitality Joe and Carmella!
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2023
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Lynda M.

Wonderful!

The hospitality and outdoor kitchen were fantastic. The property is very peaceful and we truly enjoyed the experience. We will visit again!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2017

10/10 Excellent

Lynn N.

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

Incredible Scenery

Gorgeous place and gracious owners! Perfect Covid get-away.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2021

10/10 Excellent

travis w.

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

Amazing views and property

Our stay at the Rio Verde was beyond anything we could have expected. Just steps away from hiking in the Tonto or Sonoran preserve. Great restaurants and attractions near by or quick drive to Carmela and Joe are amazing hosts
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Vivek R., Chicago, IL

Best Place to Stay in All of Scottsdale. Highly Recommended!!

Awesome view of sonoran desert. Well managed property. Owner was welcoming and knowledgeable. Would recommend to anyone who is looking for quite and comfy getaway from city life.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2015

10/10 Excellent

Jan S., McCall, Idaho, USA

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

Amazing property!!! And hosts Will return

We wanted a quiet get away Hiking, fresh air, kind, considerate people, birds, natural life This is the VRBO for all of the above. Camila & Joe hosts with the most!!! Plus, very fun people!
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Rachel T.

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

We won't forget this place.

My partner and I visited Arizona to escape Minnesota’s cold for a weekend. We were immediately struck by the property’s beauty and received a warm welcome from Carmella, making us feel at home. The ranch is secluded yet lively, with Joe and Carmella even inviting us to join a morning roping session. The house was clean and well-stocked, and while the outdoor kitchen is functional, we preferred dining out with Carmella’s excellent restaurant recommendations. We found it best to stock up on snacks while in town, as there are no stores immediately nearby. Cave Creek, about 20-30 minutes away, is a charming town we enjoyed. There are plenty of nearby hiking and outdoor activities as well. The road to the property is winding and gravel at the end, so we were glad to have rented a mid-size car. A smaller sedan will work, but it's something to consider. Overall, a one-of-a-kind trip!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

faith s.

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

I LOVED EVERY MOMENT OF RIO RANCHO VERDE

I needed to recuperate after surgery and this home was everything! The land was so healing and Carmella and Joe were so hospitable. I would stay there again in a heartbeat! Rio Rancho Verde is a magical place that you will absolutely love!
Stayed 13 nights in Aug 2022

8/10 Good

Michelle K.

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

Relaxation weekend

The property was incredible. Beautiful landscaping and pool. Just a short walk to a Tonto National Forest trail. The rooms were comfortable and a fabulous bathroom. Loved the outdoor kitchen.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Amanda B.

Breathtaking and peaceful!

We loved our stay. It is such a peaceful and beautiful place. The hospitality was amazing. We were able to hike and relax and see the horses and sit out by the fire at night. It was like grown up sleepaway camp. The rooms were clean and everything was well stocked. This place is so special!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

Erin P.

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

Stunning Getaway

I had a wonderful stay at this beautiful home. Everything was immaculate, comfortable and just as the pictures show. The host, Carmela, was responsive to all of my questions and made me feel at home. Checking in is very easy. Location is off a dirt road. Very secluded, feeling like you are away from everything but still close to the main road into town for convenience. Location is perfect for hiking trails. Views are expansive and spectacular. When I first arrived, I walked with Carmela to the barn to watch her feed her immaculate barn and horses. I was welcomed with a puppy in my arms from their neighbor. The mountain views are stunning as is the property. There are options to be near the common pool area or away at the bunkhouse for more privacy. I hope to see you again with my family and take advantage of all you have to offer.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tiffany H.

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

Beautiful and relaxing

We really enjoyed our stay at this beautiful property. The views are so breathtaking I didn't want to leave. We had a relaxing weekend spent lounging by the pool, visiting the horses and hiking nearby trails. The outdoor kitchen area was stocked with all the dishes and utensils we needed to prepare ourselves some delicious meals.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Lynn K.

Best of the Best!

Rio Rancho Verde is a well kept secret of vast beauty , comfort and retreat! Our amenities were ample, Carmela and Joe Were gracious and welcoming. We'll be back soon!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2019

10/10 Excellent

Mackenzie M.

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

Everything I Didn't Know I Needed

Absolutely gorgeous property on the edge of the Tonto Natl Forest. Carmela was very communicative and helpful. The location is just *chefs kiss*. Nature cooperated and we were able to enjoy our long weekend outdoors soaking up the sun and heat. The perfect escape.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

PATRICK J.

Great Stay.

We were lucky enough to stumble on this gem and we loved it. The area is beautiful the home is beautiful and we loved our host. Carmela is kinda a local celebrity and Joe is ready to point you in the right Direction for Trails for Mountain Biking or Horseback riding. We rented a Full size pickup truck and thank God we did. The ride back to the ranch turns to a dirt road but well worth the trip.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2019

10/10 Excellent

Lynn M., Pittsburgh

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

Synchronicity with Balance

The moment you hit that dirt road to the ranch you feel the heaviness of the world fade away...you never need to leave the property, we cooked outdoors and enjoyed all the ranch had to offer. Carmilla is just beyond welcoming , wonderful host without being invasive. Really...EVERYTHING you need to relax, rejuvenate and recharge for this hectic world! We WILL be back!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Don G.

A remembrance of a lifetime!

My wife and I spent four nights on this beautiful property, From the time we arrived to the time we left, we felt like were truly welcomed guests. The bedroom, living space, and the bathroom were very comfortable. The outdoor kitchen with a view of the mountains and the pool was wonderful. We met other great guests on the ranch that were welcoming and friendly. The entire experience, staying on the ranch in the middle of the desert, was a memorable one! Hiking and mountain bike riding the abundant trails, horse back riding at a nearby ranch were just some of the fun activities. Carmella and Joe were excellent hosts with many great tips.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2018
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Damon K.

A True Arizona Experience!

My two girlfriends and I stayed for three nights with Carmela & Joe and they were fantastic hosts! It was like staying at a beautiful B&B where we were the only guests! We opted to purchase the Continental Breakfast our first morning and it was wonderfully laid out for us when we got up in the morning to watch the sun rise over the mountains. It is out of the way, but you get gorgeous views with sunrises and sunsets. horses that you can visit and feed carrots, an organic vegetable garden and great people. It's a great place for hikers as well. We ate out a few times, but the small, outdoor kitchen right outside our doors was just fine for dinners by the pool.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2016

10/10 Excellent

JENNIFER F., Gig Harbor

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

Desert Magic

Rio Rancho Verde is the most beautiful, peaceful, relaxing place I could imagine. Yes, it's clean, it has all the amenities it claims on the VRBO listing, Carmela is an amazing hostess. I've stayed in luxury hotel suites that can't hold a candle to the space we occupied. It's the full package. But for me it was the peace I felt while I was there. The beauty of the desert surrounding Carmela's home that I enjoyed by myself every morning and every evening. Visiting with the horses, walks around the beautifully landscaped property, wandering through the eco-garden. The Sun God next to the pool surrounded by fragrant flowers. It's a magical place. Thank you, Carmela, for opening your home to us. I can't wait to get back!
Stayed 6 nights in May 2021
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

4/10 Poor

Jacque E., Lynden, WA

Not as expected

The property is in a beautiful, remote location. There is not a kitchen, there is an outdoor bbq, small microwave and a mini frig. There were no games or tv, and lighting was so bad reading was not possible, unless you sat in the closet (good light in the closet). When it rains, these are not covered and essentially useless. The trip out to the property takes a good 1/2 hour and if you are prone to motion sickness, you will want to stay put once you arrive. The beds, linens, and bathroom situation were as anticipated and very nice. The pool however was too chilly to use and is not private, there are multiple places to stay on the property and the pool is communal. Another issue is the fact that you enter the room through a slider which only locks from the inside. When you leave for the day your room is open. This didn't turn out to be a problem but it certainly could have been. Frankly, it was a disappointment.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2016

About the host

Hosted by Carmela Lizzo

Host profile image
My husband and I love living in the desert and enjoy sharing this incredible space with our guests. We've made some amazing friends who return year after year and who love to ride their horses with us to discover new trails and places. We're both avid horseback riders, Joe's a roper, and we also like mountain biking and hiking on the trails outside our gates. We have an organic garden on site, we compost and are big on reduce, reuse, recycle and re-purpose! We like being sustainable, we're on a well so we're always mindful of water consumption, and the veggies in our garden (seasonal) could feed an army!

Why they chose this property

Why do we own this property? We wanted to live as far out in the desert as we possibly could, but still have the conveniences of town. We specifically looked in the Rio Verde Foothills area because we wanted to live on the National Forest and have neighbors who were close enough to become friends but far enough away to give us our space. (we have awesome neighbors!!). I was born and raised in Chicago and on every vacation we ever took, I would be the little girl in the car looking out the window at the wide open spaces and the cowboy riding the range and wish that was me. My dream has come true at Rio Rancho Verde. Why should you select Rio Rancho Verde for your next trip? There's truly nothing else like it! When you see how beautiful our land is you'll know immediately that it's a very special place. We're incredibly blessed and grateful to call this home and we love to share it with guests who love the outdoors and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us. It's an amazing place with 360 degree views that feature mountain vistas, spectacular sunrises and sunsets, skies full of stars and a peaceful serenity that gets right down in your soul. It's the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city/corporate/daily life - we have a annual visitor who told us "I may reside in Missouri, but I LIVE here on the ranch".

What makes this property unique

Enjoy country living 20 minutes from the city of Scottsdale. You'll feel like you're in the middle of nowhere (and you kind of are!) but fine dining, shopping, nightlife and Western adventures are a short drive away. Our location is primo - we're on a one mile finger of land that is bordered by the Scottsdale Sonoran Preserve on one side (32,000 acres and 215 miles of trails) and the Tonto National Forest on the other side (which our ranch borders). Rio Rancho Verde offers the best of both worlds. It's serene and peaceful, the views are incredible, we get visited by the local wildlife, the scenery is spectacular - it's amazing! We're not for everyone and if you don't like dirt roads (the last 2 miles), or are looking to party hardy, hang out at the mall or enjoy watching TV 8 hours a day, we're probably not for you. However, if being outside recharges you, if you appreciate the beauty and solitude of the natural desert and if your idea of a life well lived includes the path less traveled, you're in the right spot. It doesn't get much better than this! My daughter, when she comes to visit, says: "this is what quiet sounds like", and it's so true. Please note, we're in a very rural, very remote area. There are no streetlights and we're mindful of the Dark Sky Ordinance, so we're dimly lit. It is dark out here, which we love, but again, realize that city dwellers may be feeling a bit out of their comfort zone. Also, note this is strictly a 2 bedroom suite, (with a bathroom) you are not renting the entire house. The suite is completely separate, has it's own entrance and is separated from the house by a wall so you have complete privacy. The kitchen is all outdoors, as is the seating. The pool is not heated and there is no TV.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests