Description: White Stallion started out as an actual cattle ranch, and the original turn of the century Mission-style adobe building, with its big semicircular archway centered in the smooth-plastered wall, now serves as the indoor dining area. During the 1940’s, units were added to the guesthouses, and in 1965 Denver oilman Allen True and his family took over.
Over the years, guests have come to White Stallion from over 50 other countries (with British slightly outnumbering Canadians) and all 50 states. And like the other surviving guest ranches in this part of the state, White Stallion is located within minutes from Tucson, where there are plentiful golf courses and even winter skiing on nearby Mt. Lemon Then again, a stayover at any guest ranch is an ideal counterbalance to the pressures of communication, and the design here takes note of the fact.
Accommodations at White Stallion consist of 33 elegantly rustic guest cabins, each with spacious, high-ceilinged wood beamed interiors and decorated with a contemporary mix of Native American, Mexican and Southwestern handicrafts and furniture. There are no phones or television to interrupt the silence of the surrounding desert here, and only the singing of the birds outside your casita window may break the peace now and then. Many of the rooms feature authentic fireplaces, whirlpool baths and sumptuous king-sized beds. Between the rows of guest cottages, an intricate design of high and low desert cacti and flowers create an oasis-like feeling, with giant saguaro, bunny-eared cacti, cholla, prickly pear, paloverde trees and creosote bushes.
After a morning or afternoon ride, there''s still time to take a few laps in the heated swimming pool, soak off in the indoor redwood hot tub, or have a massage from the resort masseuse. Other onsite activities include clay tennis courts, horseshoes, shuffleboard, basketball, volleyball, and of course plenty of opportunity for hikes out in the surrounding gorgeous desert hinterland. At White Stallion the younger generation are also welcome to take part in most the rides (children have to be at least five to ride their own horse, although those under five can join on trail rides with a parent). An on-ranch feature both kids and adults enjoy here is the owners’ extensive petting zoo, which has deer, miniature horses, llamas, potbellied pigs, and pygmy goats. Evening activities include moonlight bonfires with cowboy entertainment.
Of course, you may wonder about the menu at a present-day guest ranch like this. Is it all fattening? Not in the least, if you do have any particular dietary requirements, you can discuss them beforehand with the chef or resort director. In fact, most major foods used are either grown fresh (such as citrus fruit) or bought locally whole and unprocessed. The mesquite chicken, barbecued over an outdoor brick oven, is a dish not to be missed during any stay here, and for those who will allow themselves beef, barbecued ribs and Texas-sized Angus steaks broiled to order round out the dining experience in great western style and taste.
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