The Hermosa Inn, in Paradise Valley, Arizona, is a member of the prestigious Historic Hotels of America and this luxury boutique hideaway has been delighting guests since 1930.

The original structure, built by cowboy artist Alonzo “Lon” Megargee as a one-room studio set in the wide-open desert, far beyond the Phoenix city limits, and was dubbed “Casa Hermosa” which means Beautiful House.

Megargee, with a well-deserved reputation as a ladies’ man began hosting a few friends to supplement his income as an artist.

However, over time, Casa Hermosa became quite large and was soon rumored to host late-night gambling complete with drinking, wild women, and secret underground tunnels from the house to the stables to allow his guests to disappear in the desert when the local sheriff made his unannounced visits.

Today, The Hermosa Inn has evolved into one of the southwest’s most delightful boutique hotels winning a AAA Four-Diamond Award and accolades coming in from Wine Spectator, Condé Naste, Zagat, Travel + Leisure, and many more.

Further, the resort features exquisite farm-to-table dining featuring the cuisine of Chef Jeremy Pacheco.  Dining options include the award-winning Lon’s at the Hermosa, intimate dining in Megargee’s wine cellar, and the resort is also renowned for it’s spectacular Sunday Brunch.

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Favorite Memories from The Hermosa Inn

• The Hermosa Inn has done a wonderful job keeping the spirit of Lon Megargee alive.  The main building features some of the original architecture of Lon’s desert retreat with the walls adorned with prints and originals of Megargee’s artwork as well as photographs of him adorning the walls.  Megargee died in 1960, but it’s been said that he stills pays a visit to his beloved Casa Hermosa from time to time.
• Our casita was spacious, had all the modern conveniences that a luxury traveler would expect, and had an oh-so-comfortable bed!  I also loved the very comfortable set of large leather chairs in our room’s sitting area.
• The dining was spectacular, and we highly recommend dining in the wine cellar if it’s available.
• Our schedule didn’t permit time, but we heard a great deal of laughter and fun coming from the resort’s Last Drop Bar.  Megargee is famous for the design of the cowboy and his horse (The Last Drop from his Stetson) that appears inside all Stetson hats.
• The Monkey Bread from their famous Sunday Brunch will remain in my memory forever.
• For being in the middle of the desert, the property is beautifully lush with native flora and the nearby mountains make a stunningly beautiful backdrop.
• We found the staff to be very friendly and dedicated to make our stay a memorable experience.