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Photos: Ann Tracy & Dick Hortshone respectively.
View more ranch photos.
What to Expect
Find out if a stay is right for you
Rancho Linda Vista is located on an historic adobe ranch in the high desert. While many visiting artists appreciate the rustic simplicity of ranch life, read more so that you know what to expect.
Nature. We are situated on 114 acres in the northern Catalina foothills, with unimpeded mountain views. Scrub oak, mesquite trees, tall grasses, cholla, prickley pear and blue agaves grow in abundance. Raptors swoop, turkey vultures soar, javelinas troop, coyotes serenade. In the heat of day, humming birds and lizards dart among flowers. So do snakes, some deadly. And bugs, large and small. You must exercise intelligence when hiking or walking around, at all hours. When you get here, we will share tips.
Summer Weather. In the summer, the monsoon (aka chubasco) often rolls in, with mile-high thunderheads, dancing lightening and pelting rains. By early evening, the air can be fresh and cool—just in time to enjoy the unbelievable sunsets. Although ‘dry heat’ is more comfortable than humid, temperatures can climb to 110. Luckily, the guest house and studio have air-conditioning and there is a tree-shaded swimming pool. Shade hats, sunscreen, and water bottles are essential—especially when hiking, biking or driving distances.
Winter Weather. Oracle is seasonal. We even get snow! In winter, daytime temperatures range from the 30’s to the 60’s. Nighttime temperatures drop to the 20’s. From November through March, you will need layers and winter gear.
Visual Artist Amenities. You will be provided a private studio and one-bedroom cottage, with living room, kitchen, bathroom—and stupendous mountain views. There are linens, cleaning supplies, a washing machine and clothesline, WiFi and local TV. You are responsible for the house’s upkeep, transporting and provisioning yourself, and pretty much making do. Life here is pared down, but the experience can be rewarding. See more.
Music Artist Amenities. Music Award recipients will be provided a private room inside the Lodge where the Oracle Recording Studio is based. The shared premises include a fully-equipped kitchen, bathroom and plenty of space—with art on the walls. Guests take care of their own provisions and clean up after themselves. Bedding, cleaning supplies, a washing machine and WiFi are available for use. See more.
Poetry Workshop Amenities. Room and board may be included for those willing to share premises. Those seeking privacy should check out other nearby accommodations. Everyone will have use of the Lodge, where workshops, meals, readings and other entertainments will most often be held.
Other Amenities. The unheated swimming pool is open year round. There is an art library and well-stocked book library. There are hiking trails. Oracle boasts a few eateries, two bars, two dollar stores, a café, a small market, state park, public library, history museum, zipline, music and art venues, and even more hiking trails. Biosphere is 2 miles south. Nearby Mammoth has terrific Sonoran Mexican fare. Catalina has a large supermarket and a carnicería. Both towns are a 20-minute drive. An hour away in Tucson, you can find art supplies, restaurants, museums, a vibrant cultural scene, and shopping aplenty.
Transportation. You must have a car or be an avid cyclist (in all weather), as there are no shops within walking distance and no vehicles available on loan.
Social Life. The ranch hosts gatherings & events about once a month. In the end, the degree to which you socialize is up to you—meaning you are welcome to walk around, introduce yourself and get to know people. People here will also however respect your privacy.
Nearby, live music and art displays can also be enjoyed at the Oracle Center for the Arts, Triangle L Ranch, and Wilson Barn. Local musicians take to the stage weekly at the Ore House and Way of Bean Coffee Club. For great hiking trails, bird walks and star gazing, visit Oracle State Park.
Bringing Children. Many children have grown up on the ranch. For young kids, the environment can be magical and eye-opening. There are nearby age-appropriate activities, but these thin out during the summer or may require driving distances. For independent kids who are used to unstructured play time, the Ranch can be ideal.
About pets. We have many on the ranch and most dogs run free. You are however responsible for your pets and their interactions. Because of predators, you are advised to keep small animals on leash or indoors. Please email us if you have questions.
Emergency Services. The nearest available medical services are in Oro Valley, about a 30-minute drive south on 77 (see map). These include Carbon Health Urgent Care (12155 N Oracle Rd.), Oro Valley Urgent Care (11015 N Oracle Rd # 121), and the Northwest Hospital Emergency Room (6200 N La Cholla Blvd). Sun Life is a local Oracle clinic, but registration and appointments are required.
Interested?
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