The Best Cabins and Cottages to Rent for Your Vacation in Arizona

Arizona is home to some of the most atmospheric desert landscapes in the US | © Brent Coulter / Alamy Stock Photo

20 December 2021

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Mention Arizona and you’ll be forgiven for thinking it’s all about the Grand Canyon – the 277mi (445km) comparison-defying stretch of red rock. But there’s so much more on offer – from Tucson’s thriving science scene to hikes up Camelback Mountain. If you’re looking for a cottage in Arizona or an Arizona cabin to rent, we’ve cherrypicked our faves – bookable on Culture Trip.

Stunning Home in a Great Location 2-car Garage, for adventurous families

Living area with sofa in Stunning Home in a Great Location 2-car Garage with balcony

Located in the small city of Tempe, this cottage is the perfect place for families and groups looking to explore the nearby watery terrains of Tempe Town Lake and Tempe Beach Park. Prefer a splash at home? The shared pool means you needn’t leave to keep cool. The kitchen has all mod cons but for those preferring to drink and dine out, Mill Avenue District’s buzzy restaurants, bars and stores are less than a mile’s stroll away.

The Donatella - Arcadia - Creme de la Creme, for architectural appreciators

Outdoor pool and seating area in modern style at The Donatella - Arcadia - Creme de la Creme

This luxurious architect’s delight is situated in Arcadia – the flourishing and upmarket neighborhood in the shadow of Camelback Mountain. There’s floor-to-ceiling glass throughout with a private pool and jacuzzi flanked by their own cabanas – so you’ll feel right at home in such a salubrious district. Just 2.7mi (4.3km) away, you can access Camelback Mountain with its testing hiking trails, Echo Canyon and Cholla.

ELM - Modern 4BD / Private Pool & Walk to Biltmore, for a weekend getaway with friends

Lounge at ELM - Modern 4BD : Private Pool & Walk to Biltmore with exposed brick wall and fireplace

This rental cabin in Arizona may be single-story but it can comfortably accommodate 10 guests. It’s a place for music lovers with a vintage piano just begging for a singalong. You’re in Camelback East so never far from a restaurant, bar or shop – if designer brands are your bag then stroll the 0.6mi (0.97km) to Biltmore Fashion Park, packed with stores like Ralph Lauren and Saks Fifth Avenue.

Sedona Pines Resort, for red rock explorers

Lounge at Sedona Pines Resort with sofa and wood floor

Sedona Pines Resort is the perfect basecamp to explore this unique Red Rock Country town that’s surrounded by rugged–yet–beautiful buttes, lofty canyon walls and verdant pine forests. The town itself is noted for a thriving creative community and the gallery of the Sedona Arts Center – 7.3mi (11.7km) away – showcases over 100 local and regional artists. The resort itself has a pool, concierge and Bella Viitta restaurant serving Italian staples like linguine polpette.

The Cottage at Rincon, for cozy evenings around the fire

Ceiling fan in a room at The Cottage at Rincon with flatscreen and striped carpet

Enjoy mountain views from the comfort of your own lounge in this Tucson gated resort. Pride of place in evenings goes to the yard’s gas fire pit – while residents get access to the well-equipped fitness center, outdoor tennis court and pool with hot tub. The natural splendors of Saguaro National Park await just 6.7m (10.8km) away – while must-visit Trail Dust Town is less than a 10-minute drive – take a step back in time with its Old West-style boutiques and eateries.

Desert Retreat Bungalow by Casago, for Big Bang fans

Lounge with fireplace and red rug, blankets at Desert Retreat Bungalow by Casago

This homely cottage in Arizona is just 3mi (4.8km) from downtown Tucson. The area is flanked by five mountain ranges and is known for its thriving science scene – Big Bang Theory fans should make the short trip to Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium (open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm) top of their lists. Craving some arts and culture? It’s just 3.1m (5km) to the secret El Presidio Historic District with its galleries, independent shops and Tucson Museum of Art.

Amelia – Pueblo Viejo, for fun-seekers

Amelia – Pueblo Viejo built in typical Arizona style

This sprawling modern villa is equipped to satisfy the most itchy-footed traveler with a swimming pool, huge rooftop patio, pool table and satellite flatscreen television. It’s also the perfect place to explore Scottsdale – the dusty old-world charm of downtown’s independent shops, restaurants, galleries and nightspots are just 1.9m (3km) away. Baseball fan? Come during February and March to watch the San Francisco Giants take part in their spring training at Scottsdale Stadium.

Cactus Garden Cottage 2BR by Casago, for science lovers

Cactus Garden Cottage 2BR by Casago exterior with cactus and yard

With a dusty backyard dotted with huge, green cacti, this rental cabin in Arizona is a snapshot of the state. It’s a short 2.3mi (3.7km) drive to explore the area’s animal heritage at the lush Reid Acre Zoo – open daily from 9.45am to 4pm. Aviation and space travel fans will get an aeronautical kick from the 400 aircraft across six hangers and an airfield – the Pima Air and Space Museum is a short drive away in your rental car.

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