Hotels Near Of MeArizonaMaricopa CountyPhoenixSouth Mountain VillageEast Francisco Drive
4647 E Francisco Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85044, USA
It’s nice for people who want to do hiking, but we didn’t have a trail app or map so you could get lost. Water wasn’t the hottest we did tell them but nothing done. Could use updating.
Hello, Arizona! When you’re looking for a getaway that truly connects you with our state's stunning natural beauty, yet keeps you close to urban conveniences, Desert Arroyo By Raintree Vac offers a unique experience. Tucked away at the base of the majestic South Mountain Preserve in Phoenix, this resort hotel isn't just a place to stay; it’s an invitation to explore the largest municipal park in the world, with its breathtaking desert vistas and incredible wildlife.
Desert Arroyo By Raintree Vac provides comfortable, apartment-style units, designed to make you feel right at home amidst the desert landscape. It's an ideal choice for those who appreciate the tranquility of nature combined with the flexibility of a fully equipped living space. While some guests have noted areas for potential updates or specific amenity adjustments, the overall feedback highlights the beauty of the surroundings, the comfort of the units, and the helpfulness of the staff. Let's explore what makes Desert Arroyo a distinctive option for your next Arizona adventure or serene staycation.
Desert Arroyo By Raintree Vac, also known as Raintree at WorldMark Phoenix - South Mountain Preserve, is a unique resort hotel located in Phoenix, Arizona. Situated at 4647 E Francisco Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85044, USA, this property is distinctively positioned at the foot of the South Mountain Preserve, offering direct access to 17,000 acres of pristine desert wilderness. The resort is designed to reflect the natural beauty and native spirit of its surroundings, providing an ideal setting for relaxation and exploration.
Unlike traditional hotels, Desert Arroyo operates more like an aparthotel or vacation club property, offering spacious units that are often equipped with full kitchens and amenities designed for extended stays. Guests appreciate the comfortable units and the serene environment, making it a popular choice for those interested in outdoor activities like hiking and biking. While some reviews suggest that the units "could use updating" and that the hot tub's water temperature might occasionally be an issue, the overall sentiment points to a "nice" resort with "gorgeous hiking trails," "friendly and helpful staff," and a great location for both nature enthusiasts and shoppers.
Desert Arroyo By Raintree Vac boasts an enviable location at 4647 E Francisco Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85044, USA, making it a perfect blend of natural seclusion and urban accessibility. Its most significant advantage is being "just steps from the resort's front door" to the trail access and staging areas of the South Mountain Preserve. This massive park offers miles of hiking and biking trails, stunning desert vistas, and opportunities to discover unique wildlife and ancient petroglyphs, truly making it a hiker's paradise.
Despite its natural setting, the resort remains remarkably convenient to central Phoenix attractions. Downtown Phoenix, with its full complement of family-friendly attractions, diverse dining, vibrant nightlife, professional sports venues, and cultural sites, is just minutes away. The resort is also well-placed for shopping, with Arizona Mills Mall only about 1 mile distant and other major retail centers within easy reach. The Rawhide 1880s Western Town, the Desert Botanical Garden, The Phoenix Zoo, and even Old Town Scottsdale are all within a short drive. For air travelers, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is approximately 11-15 minutes away by car, ensuring relatively quick transfers. The resort offers free self-parking on-site, a valuable amenity for those exploring the area by car. While guests should be mindful of navigating the trails, the overall accessibility to both nature and city life is a major draw.
Desert Arroyo By Raintree Vac aims to provide a comfortable and self-sufficient stay, offering a selection of services designed to enhance the guest experience within its unique resort setting.
Outdoor Pool and Hot Tub: The resort features a luxurious outdoor swimming pool and a heated outdoor hot tub/Jacuzzi, providing a refreshing escape and relaxation under the Arizona sun. Note that a previous review mentioned the hot tub water not being the hottest, but this is an amenity designed for enjoyment.
Fitness Facility: A fitness center is available on-site, allowing guests to maintain their workout routines during their stay.
Outdoor Barbecue Area: Guests have access to outdoor barbecue grills, perfect for enjoying a meal al fresco amidst the desert scenery.
Wireless Internet Access: Free Wi-Fi is available in public areas, and often within the units, allowing guests to stay connected. Some sources mention that internet access in public areas may incur a fee.
Business Center: A computer and printer are available in the lobby/business center for guest use.
Concierge Services: Assistance with tours and tickets, as well as general concierge services, may be available to help guests plan their local explorations.
Limited-Hour Front Desk: The front desk typically operates daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Guests should note these hours for check-in and assistance.
Housekeeping (on request/fee-based): While units feature full kitchens for self-sufficiency, services like a change of towels and bedsheets are available on request, though a housekeeping fee may apply for shorter stays (e.g., less than 7 nights).
Free Self-Parking: Complimentary on-site self-parking is available for guests.
Languages Spoken Onsite: Staff are typically multilingual, often speaking English and Spanish.
Desert Arroyo By Raintree Vac offers several distinctive features and highlights that make it an appealing choice for a specific type of Arizona traveler, particularly those seeking a blend of nature and comfort:
Direct Access to South Mountain Preserve: This is arguably the resort's biggest highlight. Being "just steps from the resort's front door" to the trails of the world's largest municipal park offers unparalleled access to hiking, biking, and exploring vast desert landscapes, complete with wildlife and petroglyphs.
Apartment-Style Units with Full Kitchens: The accommodations are designed as comfortable units, often featuring fully equipped kitchens (with refrigerator, microwave, oven, stovetop, dishwasher, cookware, dishware) and living spaces. This provides the convenience of home cooking and extended stays, ideal for families or those on longer visits.
Jetted Tubs and Fireplaces: Many units boast luxurious jetted bathtubs, perfect for relaxation after a day of hiking, and some units even include wood-burning fireplaces, adding a cozy ambiance.
Private Patio/Balcony: Guests can enjoy the desert views and fresh air from their own private patio or balcony, extending the living space outdoors.
Outdoor Pool and Hot Tub: The presence of a "luxurious pool" and heated outdoor hot tub provides excellent recreational and relaxation options under the famous Arizona sunshine.
Single Car Garages: The availability of single car garages for some units adds a significant layer of convenience and security for guests with vehicles.
Friendly and Helpful Staff: Guest reviews frequently commend the staff for their friendliness and helpfulness, contributing to a positive experience.
Proximity to Shopping: Despite its natural setting, the resort is conveniently located only about a mile from major shopping destinations like Arizona Mills Mall, offering the best of both worlds.
As Desert Arroyo is primarily associated with Raintree Vacation Club and often functions within a timeshare or vacation ownership model (like RCI/WorldMark), direct promotional offers for individual bookings might differ from traditional hotels. However, opportunities for special rates or access often come through:
RCI Exchange Program: Many guests stay at Desert Arroyo through the RCI (Resort Condominiums International) exchange program, leveraging their timeshare points or weeks from other resorts. RCI itself may have promotions for members or offer discounted "Last Call" or "Extra Vacations" where non-owners can book available units.
Raintree Vacation Club Promotions: Raintree Vacation Club, the primary affiliation, may offer special deals directly to its members or through its own booking portal for non-members who wish to experience a Raintree property. Check their official website for any public promotions.
Online Travel Agency (OTA) Deals: Occasionally, units might be available for direct booking on major online travel agencies (Expedia, Booking.com, Trivago, etc.). These platforms may feature seasonal discounts or package deals (e.g., flight + hotel).
Direct Inquiries: Given its unique operational model, it’s always a good idea to contact the resort directly (using the provided phone number) to inquire about any current availability or special rates for non-members or for extended stays that might not be advertised elsewhere.
Note that standard hotel promotions like AAA/AARP discounts or specific chain loyalty programs (like Hilton Honors) do not typically apply here, as it operates under a different model.
For inquiries regarding Desert Arroyo By Raintree Vac, including reservations (if applicable through direct booking channels) or general information, please use the following contact details:
Address: 4647 E Francisco Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85044, USA
Phone: (602) 386-1900
Mobile Phone: +1 602-386-1900
For Arizona locals, Desert Arroyo By Raintree Vac offers a truly unique and appealing opportunity for a staycation or a convenient local getaway. Its unparalleled proximity to the South Mountain Preserve means that premier hiking and biking trails are literally on your doorstep. This is fantastic for Arizonans who love to explore our natural desert landscapes, offering a chance to reconnect with nature without a long drive out of the city. Imagine waking up and immediately having access to 17,000 acres of open space for your morning hike or bike ride!
The apartment-style units with full kitchens are a significant draw for locals. Whether your own home is undergoing renovations, you’re hosting visiting family and need extra space, or you simply want the comfort and flexibility of home-cooked meals during a leisure trip, these accommodations are perfectly suited. The inclusion of jetted tubs and private patios or balconies adds to the feeling of a luxurious retreat without leaving the Valley. While some units might benefit from updates, the core offering of spacious, functional living and direct access to incredible outdoor recreation, combined with easy access to shopping and dining, makes Desert Arroyo By Raintree Vac an excellent choice for Arizonans seeking a distinctive and comfortable local escape that truly celebrates our desert environment.
4647 E Francisco Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85044, USA
It’s nice for people who want to do hiking, but we didn’t have a trail app or map so you could get lost. Water wasn’t the hottest we did tell them but nothing done. Could use updating.
Feb 15, 2025 · UnknownGorgeous hiking trails. Comfortable units. Single car garages. Friendly and helpful staff. Great location for shopping, too.
May 03, 2025 · Rachel VecseriDANGER! WARNING! AVOID! Stayed here for a week and had random entrances in my room despite have "do not disturb" sign on door. Pillows were moved around, hair in the tub (not mine!), TV channels changed to BET, random furniture moved... I had to purchase a security camera by the end of the week after alerting this to the front desk. I had to stay a 2nd week here and had my security cameras packed, but never used them because the hotel was OVERBOOKED and DIDN"T HAVE A ROOM FOR ME!!!! I had a reservation and payment, I showed up after a flight delay at 1am and was told, without ANY PRIOR NOTIFICATION or notice, "go figure it out for yourself." I was literally left outside with my bags at 1am calling to find a room for the week.... even though I had a booked and confirmed reservation. DO NOT STAY HERE!!!!!
Jul 01, 2024 · dave finchStayed there starting the week of Oct. 28th 2023 in Bldg. #1 Suite #141. The resort was nice but our accommodations were less than desirable. The appliances were mismatched, the sheetrock needed several repairs, the furniture was worn, the escutcheon on the ceiling fan had fallen down and the whole thing needed painting and updating. Very disappointed! Definitely would not recommend this place! Poor excuse for an upgrade!
Nov 14, 2023 · Dave CoxMy family of six has stayed at this resort each April for the past five years. During that time period, there have definitely been constant improvements, but I have to admit I have never encountered anything like the reviewer that found the accommodations so awful that they left the next morning?! Yes, the sleeper sofas are not that comfortable, there were a few stains on a few of the dining room chairs, but otherwise, everything is extremely comfortable, extremely clean, and the decor has been updated in each of the five units we have stayed in (two bedroom units and three bedroom units). I love the peacefulness of this resort, the 17,000 acres of hiking that is right outside any door of the property, and the comfortableness and well-equipped units. The staff is very friendly and accommodating. Highly, highly recommend this resort. However, if you are looking for resort-directed activities, this is not the place for you. Lots to do around the resort, but the resort it QUIET. Yet we have a 5 year old and a 14 year old and they both really enjoy this resort.
Apr 24, 2013 · Cindy Bushnell4647 E Francisco Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85044, USA
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