Tucson: Real. Natural. Arizona.

Links Magazine

Close your eyes and picture the perfect desert destination. Your imagination will quickly lead you to a place where mountains rise above the desert floor. Where Saguaro cactus stand watch over a colorful landscape. Where history comes alive with colonial architecture and heritage, and where outdoor recreation—and world-class golf—abounds.

You have just envisioned Tucson, Arizona (800-531-9622, TucsonGolf.com).

Set on a high plateau 115 miles southwest of Phoenix, Tucson was first settled by Native Americans more than 2,000 years ago. Modern Tucson traces its history to 1775, with the establishment of the Presidio of San Augustin de Tucson in what is now the heart of a thriving downtown.  Tucson’s colorful past lives on through its historic sites and vibrant arts community. The city and its metropolitan area is home to the University of Arizona and to more than 1 million people.

“Tucson is an incredible value,” says Jay Warren, owner of Tucson Golf Vacations (888-465-3125, TucsonGolf.com). “The scenery is unbeatable, and the quality of golf is amazing.”

Tucson is home to the PGA Tour’s Accenture World Match Play Championship. Test your game at the legendary Loews Ventana Canyon Resort, which features two breathtaking Tom Fazio courses, or at the Westin La Paloma Resort and Spa, where 27 holes of Jack Nicklaus golf await. Starr Pass features a Bob Cupp design that has hosted the PGA Tour, and Tucson National, a longtime host on the PGA Tour, has recently added the new Sonoran Course by Arizona resident Tom Lehman. Or step back in time to take on the legendary Randolph Park Golf Course, built in 1933 by Billy Bell.

Because of its elevation, the desert landscape around Tucson is cooler and more lush than you might expect. In January and February, it’s not unusual to play golf on a warm day while admiring nearby snow-capped mountains.

“There’s so much great golf here that you can visit over and over,” Warren notes. “Try new courses and visit your favorites again and again.”

Off the course, the Catalina Mountains are home to spectacular hiking, climbing, mountain biking and horseback riding. Spas and wellness centers provide the chance to get out of the fast lane and recharge your body and mind. In the evenings, sample Southwestern fare in one of Tucson’s award-winning restaurants, admire the stars in the desert sky and look forward to another perfect day in this desert paradise.