Before we list a travel destination on the Philantopia site, we often send a staff member to experience the travel package for themselves. This way, we can ensure that all of Philantopia’s offerings meet the high level of standards in our auction travel package portfolio. 

Anna R. had the chance to experience the beautiful Hermosa Inn, rich in history, culture, and surrounded by a breathtaking landscape, and she has shared her experience with us to help our nonprofit customers get an idea of what the trip will be like for their donors. 

The Hermosa Inn Luxury Boutique Hideaway is the perfect getaway package for a romantic couple’s weekend or fun-filled ladies’ shopping trip to Paradise Valley and Scottsdale. Donors will be impressed with the beauty of this boutique, centrally-located resort, just a short trip from fabulous shopping, art galleries, activities, and endless events for all sensibilities!  

An easy thirteen minutes from Sky Harbor Airport, this lush and intimate property seems to be constantly in bloom. Experience the Hermosa Inn through Anna’s eyes — and reserve today on the website. 

My husband and I recently had the fortunate opportunity to stay at the Hermosa Inn in the heart of Paradise Valley, Arizona. This luxurious boutique hotel was built in the 1930’s as the private residence of Lon Megargee, a western artist famous for his contribution “The Last Drop from a Stetson” to the Stetson cowboy hats brand. The former home has since been transformed into a magnificent, tranquil hideaway. 

Our room was a Deluxe Casita complete with fireplace and separate cozy sitting area. Rooms are spacious and incredibly comfortable at between 600 and 700 square feet. The bathrooms are also oversized, with a large walk-in shower and a pedestal tub. The furnishings are unique with solid Southwestern design. There is a large screen TV and a neatly tucked away mini-fridge. Each room is decorated with artwork from Lon himself.  

I slept like a baby on the large poster bed, which rarely happens for me when staying away from home! If you want to order room service or enjoy a cup of coffee from the room’s Keurig, you can enjoy it on the lovely covered patio, taking in the outdoors. 

The lush desert landscape is the epitome of charm and serenity.  One would never believe they were in the center of the fifth largest metropolitan area in the U.S. The serenity you feel melts away stress and ushers in relaxation. We were taken aback with the breathtaking and peaceful grounds; various fountains sing with their quiet splash, while quail and cottontail bunnies scurry across the desert landscape or green grass. 

We stopped to play a “quick” game of chess with the large chess board on the lawn. They even provide a hammock for relaxation as your opponent contemplates their next move. If chess isn’t your game, keep strolling down the pathway until you find the giant Jenga game, just begging to challenge your skills.

Although our stay wasn’t long, we were able to enjoy a little time by the sparkling pool. The water was cool and refreshing and the poolside service was friendly and quick! A must-try is the fresh queso, guacamole, and fire roasted salsa with chips. I highly recommend the mojito with dark cherry nectar — refreshing! 

We were fortunate to have enjoyed both restaurants at the Hermosa. First is Lon’s Last Drop Bar, which is a bit more casual and relaxed. There is a small seating area indoors at the bar, equipped with two large screen TVs for sports fans. The larger outdoor patio had a pleasant relaxed feel with five outdoor fireplaces for dining al fresco.  

Food and drinks were absolutely scrumptious. We had the warm olives appetizer. The mild but sharp spiciness of chili pepper and bright citrus flavors complement the salty olives, which melt in your mouth. The cilantro-jalapeno hummus was also crisp with a coronet of vegetable sticks and sprinkle of crunchy garbanzo beans on top. Wow, who needs chips, with those little beauties!?

Then came the Patagonian shrimp tacos and crab cake sliders, also appeasing the taste buds, with fresh tastes and ingredients. Such wonderful flavors and textures.

Lon’s Restaurant is a bit more formal than the Last Drop but in no way pretentious. For breakfast it was the palo cristi frittata, with savory and mildly sweet foraged mushrooms, squash, and heirloom tomatoes accompanied by Lon’s potatoes. The avocado toast also delighted with a Meyer lemon oil drizzle. It popped with freshness! Both were delectable.  

Dinner was nothing less: from the Hermosa Salad and maitake mushroom tempura to the wood grilled filet mignon and crispy-skin Icefjord salmon, we couldn’t have asked or expected more.  It’s no wonder that Lon’s at the Hermosa Inn is rated as one of the Valley of the Sun’s top dining destinations. It is an experience your mouth won’t want to miss.  

Another salient observation is the pleasant staff. All were courteous and attentive; we never felt rushed, and they were always gracious and friendly. Everyone was knowledgeable about the food, the property, and the history.  

While at the Hermosa Inn, don’t miss a stroll down to the wine cellar, which boasts a collection of over 700 wines. The room is spectacular and available for an intimate dinner up to 12. The library is also lovely. It can be used for a dining or meeting experience with up to 32 guests, surrounded by a private outdoor patio.  

There are complimentary bikes to explore the area which can take you to fabulous views of the city. After a bike ride, cool off by the pool or relax with a massage at the Blue Door Spa. 

A stay at the Hermosa Inn isn’t just a “stay”, it is a remarkable experience your donors will want to repeat often. 

Thanks, Anna! 

Remember: all Philantopia travel packages are risk-free to your nonprofit organization. Learn more about how our service works, and book the Hermosa Inn Luxury Boutique Hideaway today!