Tropical Mountain Valley Casita

Private 2.5-Acre Retreat with Pool, Train & Tortoises

Escape to a private desert casita on 2.5 acres with palms, aloe, and mountain views. Enjoy a pool, hot tub, playground, grill, patio, and even a child-sized train. Inside, find a newly remodeled space with two queen beds, sofa bed, full kitchen, and washing machine/dryer. A family of red-foot tortoises lives on-site & loves leftover veggies! With its quiet setting, private entrance, and incredible stargazing, this is a one-of-a-kind Arizona retreat.

Escape to a truly unique desert retreat surrounded by wildlife, palms, and mountain views. Our casita is one of only two homes on a private 2.5-acre horse property, tucked away at the end of a quiet dead-end street. Just three houses from the vast Tonto National Forest—larger than Yellowstone—you’ll feel immersed in the Arizona wilderness while still enjoying the comforts of home.

The property is alive with nature. In spring, hummingbirds flock to the thousands of aloe vera blooms and will often zip right up to greet you—sometimes even following guests around the garden. At night, you may hear coyotes howling in the distance, while javelinas, desert quail, and other native creatures wander across the land. For those who love adventure, bring a blacklight and discover the glowing scorpions that make their home in the desert.

The grounds are lush with life: over 300 palms create a tropical oasis around the sparkling, fenced pool—ranging from towering California palms to rare and exotic varieties. Cacti, succulents, and flowering plants add to the beauty, while a living ocotillo fence frames the casita. In winter, you’re welcome to pick fresh citrus straight from our lemon, orange, and grapefruit trees.

Almost completely surrounded by mountains, the property offers sweeping views and an unmatched sense of privacy. This is not a subdivision—you’ll discover the quiet, unspoiled spirit of old Arizona here, with the desert and its wildlife as your closest neighbors.

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You are welcome to wonder anywhere on the property!

We love meeting new people and are happy to connect if you’d like! At the same time, we completely respect your privacy if you prefer a more quiet, independent stay. My wife, our two kids, and three friendly poodles live in the main house on the property, and we’re here if you need anything during your visit.

Tonto forest
Saguaro lake
Salt river
Tubing
Wild horses
Off roading
Bulldog Canyon Off-Roading
Tortilla flat
Apache trail
Canyon lake
Apache lake
Roosevelt lake
Superstation Mountain
Ursery Mountain Regional Park
Payson, Arizona
Sloan Park
Sky Harbour
Horseback riding
Fishing

The best way to travel in the area is by car. We are on the edge of the city sprawl. You can use Uber but there may be a small wait for a pickup. There is no public transport close to the property.

Most nights you may hear coyotes in the distance. They tend to keep to themselves and are not a concern. Occasionally, javelinas (small pig-like animals) may pass quietly through the property at night. If you happen to see them, simply give them space and do not approach. Both animals prefer to be left alone and will not bother you as long as you keep a safe distance.
Guests should do the dishes prior to leaving.