Gay Men’s Clothing-Optional Luxury Resort in Tucson: The Castle – Allure of the Desert Opening Summer 2026

Privately set on four acres of pristine Sonoran Desert in Tucson, Arizona, The Castle – Allure of the Desert is a one-of-a-kind desert castle and an upcoming gay men’s, clothing-optional luxury boutique resort, scheduled to open in summer 2026.

Thoughtfully restored and reimagined, the property blends historic character with modern comfort, offering an intimate escape. Guests will enjoy sweeping desert and mountain views, sun-filled courtyards, and a serene clothing-optional Oasis with a heated pool, hot tub and fire pits.

Signature amenities will include a stone chapel and courtyard for intimate weddings or vow renewals, an elevated serve-yourself continental breakfast with locally sourced ingredients, 24/7 coffee, tea, and snacks, and optional in-room wellness services arranged with licensed local providers. Guests may also register online for early access to soft-opening offers, curated themed weekends, and special events.

The story behind the castle gained international attention when owner Ian Macgillivray’s home search was featured on HGTV’s My Lottery Dream Home (Season 17, Episode 16: Totally Tucson). After touring three homes with host David Bromstad, Macgillivray revealed his choice: “I think I knew before you even took me inside. This queen needs a castle!” The unexpected discovery has since become a thoughtful restoration, honoring the property’s history while reimagining it as a welcoming retreat for gay men travelers.

The castle’s story is rooted in its setting. Tucson is a progressive city with a long-standing reputation for being gay-friendly, paired with 300 days of sunshine each year. Its higher elevation brings cooler temperatures than Phoenix, while its designation as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy reflects a 5,000-year culinary story as rich and distinctive as the desert that surrounds it.

With just four guest suites, each with its own en suite bathroom, The Castle – Allure of the Desert emphasizes privacy and personal attention over scale. The experience is intentionally unhurried, offering guests an exclusive desert sanctuary defined by comfort and care.

The Castle – Allure of the Desert will welcome its first guests in summer 2026, adding a singular new destination to the landscape of LGBTQ+ travel in the American Southwest.

Tucson heat, desert chic, and a little cheek.