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Rancho de los Caballeros: A Glorious Playground
By Patricia Bradford Rambo II

Wickenburg Arizona is a small town just a few hours from the chaos of L.A. and a mere 60 miles northwest of Central Phoenix, where State Route 60 meets State Route 93. Driving in, the scenery is not what one would expect, Strawberry Hedgehog Cactus flowers dominate the horizon with their vibrant colors in the Sonoran desert each spring. Among the first cactus to bloom, this small, low-growing cactus features clusters of green cylindrical stems covered with long spines ranging in color from cream to reddish to black. The flowers grow from the top of the cactus and appear in vivid shades of magenta. Three inches wide, they are impossible to miss among the desert vegetation. They bloom for several days and then produce a small, red, edible fruit. This is just one of the wonders of this ethereal western state.

In 1863 Henry Wickenburg discovered gold at Vulture Mine, which eventually became one of the richest gold-producing mines in Arizona. In the early 1900's, as the mine played out, ranching and tourism took over as economic mainstays of the area. Wickenburg was incorporated in 1909 and to date remains a place where time stands still.

The premiere resort in the area , Rancho de los Caballeros takes you through the rich history and culture of the present and past. Opened in 1948, the guest ranch has been family-owned and operated since its inception. Situated on 20,000 scattered acres of a virtual playground with 79 casitas restored to their original signature style complete with fireplaces, sun patios, flat screen tvs and vintage handcrafted furnishings. The property includes a championship golf course, trap and skeet range, 100 horse coral, nature hiking trails and champion tennis courts, a true sportsmen's paradise.

Views throughout the property are sun drenched with cactus gardens and offer the solitude to enjoy watching the quail, cottontail rabbits and brown nut squirrels that scurry by while you sit on your private porch to take in the sunset. It all seems to fit together with the harmony that has beckoned vacationers for over a century, seeking a unique experience to visit a place and time reminiscent of the Old West.

The Los Caballeros Golf Club recently experienced a $2.2 million renovation and is designed to play at 7,014 yards from the back tees. The environment of the course is set up for a wide variety of playing levels and boasts an enjoyable putting green in perfect form just outside of the clubhouse. The outdoor dining area of the clubhouse also offers an exquisite view of the impending fairway. Spectators can indulge in a gourmet lunch and Bloody Mary from its fully stocked bar. A special treat of home baked cookies are offered after dining, keeping within the charm of western hospitality. The pro shop is not to be missed with only the finest of golfing couture available.

A short ATV trek from the main property, guests can embark on skeet and trap shooting with a professional guide to handle the amo' and shotguns provided by the resort. A great thrill for novices and experts alike. All safety precautions are clearly explained by your personal guide who stands with you throughout the experience.

After a long day of resort excursions or simply relaxing by the outdoor pool, taking a hot air balloon ride or melting away with a massage from the full service Spa at Los Caballeros, guests gather in the lounge for a cocktail hour hosted by General Manager, Rui Pereira. After mingling with the fellow guests and sharing the days events, dinner is announced by an authentic dinner bell. Fresh, exquisite fare is prepared daily by Executive Chef Alex Kurtz. The resort also offers the "American Plan" which includes three daily meals per day for each guest included in the rate.

Rancho de los Caballeros is a lovely respite. The service is impeccable, the views breathtaking, the fare delicious and the activities endless. Once you experience the majestic world of this resort, you will want to make it a family tradition, which is undoubtedly the reason the Gant Family continues to keep that family tradition in tact by honoring the Spanish caballeros, the "gentlemen on horseback," who explored and settled the Southwest. What an amazing retreat to add to your life experience.

Rancho de los Caballeros is open Mid-October through Mid-May and is located at 1551 South Vulture Mine Road in Wickenburg, Arizona for more information or reservations, please contact 800-684-5030 or visit them on the web at: www.sunc.omc

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