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A Boutique Desert Stay with a Donkey twist.

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Smart TV, fireplace, Netflix, DVD player
Property grounds
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Outdoor pool
Exterior

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Laundry
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

Map
New River, AZ
  • Lake Pleasant
  • Anthem Community Center
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Happy Valley Towne Centre
    ‪21 min drive‬
  • Phoenix, AZ (DVT-Phoenix Deer Valley)
    ‪27 min drive‬

Room options

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About the neighborhood

New River

This guesthouse places you within a few miles (5 km) of New River Community Park and New River Nature Rreserve. This guesthouse has private in-room pools along with an outdoor pool and free in-room WiFi.
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What's nearby

  • Catch-and-Release Fishing Lake - 9 min drive - 7.5 miles
  • Anthem Community Center - 10 min drive - 7.5 miles
  • Happy Valley Towne Centre - 21 min drive - 19.8 miles
  • Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix - 26 min drive - 23.0 miles
  • Mayo Clinic Hospital - 36 min drive - 34.0 miles

Getting around

  • Phoenix Deer Valley Airport (DVT) - 22 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Roadrunner Restaurant & Saloon - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Sonic Drive-In - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪El Pizzeria Sports Bar & Grill - ‬4 min drive

About this property

A Boutique Desert Stay with a Donkey twist.

Desert Serenity Awaits at Freda’s Casita in New River, Arizona

Escape to a peaceful, picture-perfect desert oasis at Freda’s Casita — a beautifully appointed 1-bedroom retreat nestled in the tranquil foothills of New River. Surrounded by towering saguaros, wide-open skies, and stunning mountain views, this private getaway offers the ideal blend of rustic charm and modern comfort for travelers seeking rest, romance, or a touch of adventure.

Step inside and discover a thoughtfully designed, fully furnished casita featuring a spacious open-concept layout. The cozy living area is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration, complete with plush seating, smart TV, and warm southwestern touches throughout. The full kitchen comes fully stocked with everything you need — cookware, utensils, full-size appliances including a microwave, dishwasher, and a washer/dryer combo — making it easy to whip up a home-cooked meal or simply enjoy your morning coffee in peace.

Your restful night’s sleep awaits in the inviting queen bedroom suite, complete with soft linens, ample closet space, and a beautifully tiled ensuite bath featuring a walk-in shower and spa-like details.

Step outside and experience what truly sets this property apart. Take a dip in the private outdoor pool or sink into the bubbling hot tub in your secluded courtyard. In the evening, cozy up around the outdoor fireplace or fire pit, where you can stargaze under some of Arizona’s clearest skies.

For animal lovers, there’s even more magic waiting — say hello to our friendly donkeys, a guest-favorite experience that adds a unique, unforgettable charm to your stay.

Located just a short drive from Anthem, Cave Creek, and Lake Pleasant, you’ll be close to hiking trails, scenic drives, shops, restaurants, and world-class sunsets — yet far enough away to enjoy total serenity.
Guests can expect free WiFi and a Smart TV with a DVD player and Netflix. The bathroom offers hair dryers and bathrobes. Other standard amenities include a private pool, a kitchen, and a washer/dryer. Housekeeping is available on request.

Property manager

Susan J. Winters

Languages

English

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Private Casita w desert landscape and great views.

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • RV/bus/truck parking on site

Things to do

  • Books
  • Hot tub
  • Outdoor pool
  • Stereo

Conveniences

  • Laundry facilities
  • Water dispenser

Guest services

  • Change of bedsheets (on request)
  • Change of towels on request
  • Housekeeping (on request)

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Beach towels
  • Firepit
  • Outdoor furniture

Accessibility

  • Gravel flooring in public areas

More

  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Double-glazed windows
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Humane treatment of captive wild animals
  • Local culture and ecosystem education
  • Smoke-free property

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • Bathrobes
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • DVD player
  • Netflix
  • Private pool
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Streaming services

Food and drink

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dining table
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchen
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Dryer
  • Fireplace
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Living room
  • Recycling

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 23

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

Guests can access their accommodation through a private entrance
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Place bagged trash/recyclables outside the front door. We’ll take care of it for you. 🙂

Access methods

Private entrance

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Children and extra beds

  • This property doesn't allow children
  • Note from host: Pool is not fenced. No children under age of 12.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Cashless transactions are available
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: No photo-shoots, home-births,
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 23
Driving? This property offers RV, bus, and truck parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Note from host: No photo-shoots, home-births,
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Property is also known as

Vrbo Property

Frequently asked questions

What's there to see near this guesthouse?

This guesthouse is located in New River, close to Catch-and-Release Fishing Lake, Anthem Community Center, and New River Community Park. New River Nature Rreserve is also within a driving distance of 3.8 mi.

Is parking available on site at A Boutique Desert Stay with a Donkey twist.?

Yes, there is RV/bus/truck parking available.

Is this guesthouse next to a casino?

No, this guesthouse is not connected to a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at this guesthouse?

No, this guesthouse doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there are an outdoor pool and a hot tub.

Is A Boutique Desert Stay with a Donkey twist. a good place to stay for couples?

There are many amenities for couples at this guesthouse, including a private pool and a fireplace as well as an outdoor pool.

Are there hot tubs at A Boutique Desert Stay with a Donkey twist.?

Yes, guests can enjoy a spa tub at this guesthouse.

Does this guesthouse include breakfast service?

No, this guesthouse doesn't offer breakfast.

Does this guesthouse allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at this guesthouse.

Are there connecting rooms at A Boutique Desert Stay with a Donkey twist.?

No, this guesthouse doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How far is the airport from this guesthouse?

The closest major airport to this guesthouse is Phoenix Deer Valley Airport (DVT), which is 19.9 mi away (22 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at A Boutique Desert Stay with a Donkey twist.?

Yes, every accommodation at A Boutique Desert Stay with a Donkey twist. comes with a balcony with some featuring mountain views.

A Boutique Desert Stay with a Donkey twist. Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 76 out of 76 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 76 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 76 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 76 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 76 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Lauren M.

Liked: Cleanliness

The most relaxing stay

We booked one night and the following day to relax at the end of our trip, which Susan was extremely gracious in accommodating. The guest house is spotless and so cozy with so many thoughtful touches. We felt so at home. Susan was very responsive throughout the whole process and is such a kind and generous host! She spent time introducing us to their sweet donkeys. Between that and relaxing by the pool with beautiful surroundings it couldn’t have been a better end to our trip! If you are considering this stay- don’t hesitate!! We would love to return.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lori G.

Liked: Cleanliness

New River Guest House

Great place to stay
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Laurie K., Nevada, IA

Liked: Cleanliness

Simply lovely

A wonderful well maintained guest house with access to a private spa and pool. The house is well stocked with all the amenities. Lushish towels, pool towels, lots of places to relax inside and out. Best VRBO YET!
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

David B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Tranquil spot between Phoenix and Sedona

The New River guesthouse was super clean and beautifully decorated. Fantastic sunrise overlooking the mountains and saguaros! We enjoyed staying here and appreciated Susan’s excellent hospitality.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alisha H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Peaceful Paradise

Our first visit to Arizona was amazing and one of the reasons was our stay at Freda’s Casita. Susan and Dan have created the perfect space for rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation. They thought of everything that would make us feel a sense of belonging from the moment we opened the door. The home is beautifully decorated inside and out. We loved sitting by the pool and using the hot tub. They even set up a fire for us so we could enjoy the stars. The location is perfect if you want to be close to everything without being right in the city. We can’t wait to visit again.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tiffiny B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect, just perfect.

Well appointed, lovely casita. Would definitely recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Joyce G., Mohnton Pa.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great stay

Great hosts, great stay!! House was immaculate and well appointed. You couldn't have asked for a better place. We can't wait to come back next year!
Stayed 28 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gloria A.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great stay

They have thought of everything you might need to make your stay perfect. We loved it.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

dewine r.

Liked: Cleanliness

The hills of Arizona

On our trip to the desert, me and my wife stayed here on our way back from Nevada. This felt like a home away from home. It was exactly what we needed to decompress from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas. Not only did it have everything we needed to make the stay enjoyable, but the hospitality was great. I would definitely stay here again every time I visited, and even plan a trip just for this place.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness

Best Rental Ever

We have stayed in many rentals over the years and this little desert gem stands out from the pack. It is just the right combination of remoteness (not too far from the city and suburbs) and desert vibes while still serving as a hub for day visits to area attractions. The casita is immaculately tidy and well appointed and everything you could possibly need for your stay is provided. The donkeys are friendly and extremely personable and will enjoy your attention. And finally the hosts are wonderfully welcoming and want to make sure you have everything you need to have a relaxing stay. Don’t hesitate to book this one. The description and other reviews are spot on.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ed B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fantastic

The hosts went out of their way to make our stay pleasant, and were exceptionally nice and welcoming without being intrusive. The place was immaculate, and well supplied with everything we needed. They even provided welcoming munchies. The donkeys were a joy to interact with, as were the family dogs. The location was well situated in relation to numerous places of interest and hikes.
Stayed 28 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Denise P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Hidden gem

We had an amazing stay here. No detail was missed. The hosts were fabulous and we met the donkeys too. A nice touch was the walking sticks for hiking which we also did right outside the door. We felt very welocome. Definitely will be back.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christi V., Chino, CA

Liked: Cleanliness

Sweet Donkeys!

We loved our stay at this casita. Beautiful views all around and plenty of comfortable outside seating areas. Comfortable bed and pillows. Quiet neighborhood with great stargazing. The casita was spotless and everything was well stocked. We lacked nothing. I bought some bagels from the bakery and I was very happy to find a bread knife there to cut them with. I was very impressed. The hosts went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed including creamer for my coffee and fresh eggs. They even made sure the hot tub temperature was set to our liking. Super nice hosts. We loved meeting the sweet donkeys. They are so cute and friendly. Our stay here was perfect and we hope we can stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Darren & D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fantastically Fabulous!

Amazing stay at Freda’s Casita! We had such an incredible time at Freda’s Casita. The hosts truly went above and beyond to make sure our stay was perfect. Everything we needed was right there, and the casita was spotless, organized, and beautifully decorated. One of the highlights was the donkeys on the property, which we got to interact with—such a unique and fun experience! As someone who deals with fibromyalgia and chronic pain, I especially appreciated the multiple cozy sitting areas. The bed was unbelievably comfortable, with linens that were soft, luxurious, and smelled amazing. Walking into the casita was like stepping into a spa—the intentional and soothing aroma made it instantly relaxing. The hosts gave us plenty of privacy, so you’d never know they even lived there, and we really enjoyed the peaceful, tranquil surroundings. The small thoughtful touches like the guest book, local information, and tourist guides were also much appreciated. We can't recommend Freda's Casita enough—if you’re looking for a peaceful, comfortable, and welcoming getaway, this is the place to stay! We certainly won't hesitate to book again. Thank you!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Deanna M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfection

This Home was the perfect fit for my Birthday Trip to AZ with my sister to see the Grand Canyon! Loved the Home it had anything and everything you could possibly need and MORE! The home was beautiful but the Backyard, Pool and Donkeys stole the show for me. They were so cute and friendly! I loved watching the sunrise and Stargazing at the open sky's at night to see so many stars... it was magical! I can not Wait to come back next year. I am so glad we found this GEM for our vacation and I couldn't be more smitten w. New River and this Home! I didn't want to leave. But all vacations must come to an end. This place was Amazing and I left with my mind, heart, body and soul just being completely and utterly Happy! Thank you So Much Susan and Dan for a Great place for some much needed R&R ! We Loved your Sweet Getaway! Freda's Casita will forever hold a special place in my Heart! <3
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bonnie L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful!

We’ve loved every visit to this wonderful property. The casita is perfectly appointed. It is our first choice for New River and I don’t anticipate that changing.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jessica B., Reno

Liked: Cleanliness

Wow!

This was by far the best rental we have ever stayed in. The attention to detail made everything so special. Bravo to the hosts! You really made our stay pleasant and relaxing. We can't wait to come back! The burros were so sweet. The area was so scenic. The trails nearby provided stunning views. Loved every minute.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kelly S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Absolute Perfection.

Peaceful, beautiful, immaculately maintained & managed. This little casita exceeded every expectation. It was absolute perfection. You can escape the hustle/bustle yet still be close to Phoenix & all it has to offer. Well done!! This will be my go to getaway!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Todd H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Terrific place to stay

We found the place to be modern, clean and well located to experience Arizona. I would highly recommend this place to others traveling to that area. We will visit this place again in the future.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nancy D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great stay

The property was immaculate and very well stocked, everything we could want was available and there were even treats provided. The donkeys were adorable and friendly. We had a beautiful morning hike in the hills walking among the saguaro and other cacti. It was a beautiful place to stay.
Stayed 1 night in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

David C.

Liked: Cleanliness

A Perfect Sonoran Retreat

Everything stated in this listing, and in the many five-star reviews, is 100% accurate. This casita and its location were ideal for our two week stay. We loved its address at the end of a dirt road. We loved seeing and hearing the donkeys out back every morning and evening. We appreciated the fact that everything in the Casita was nicely appointed and worked exactly the way it was supposed to work, i.e. the A/C, the grill, the shower, the dishwasher, the washer/dryer, etc. And did I mention that the backyard pool, fire pit, and lounging areas are simply lovely.... and relaxing. The owners were great to work with, and very friendly, but only "visible" when or if we wanted to see them. We would stay here in a heartbeat. Loved it.
Stayed 15 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dana A., Louisville

Liked: Cleanliness

Secluded yet coveniently located apartment

This was the perfect get away for the two of us. We flew in from KY and were happy to see lots of amenities in the kitchen and bathroom that we couldn’t bring with us on the plane. Everything was clean and nicely decorated and in good condition. The sheets and towels were good quality. The bed was a bit soft but didn’t keep us from a good nights sleep. The donkeys were cute and the pen was kept clean so even though they were close, there wasn't a smell. Their braying only happened occasionally during the day and it just made us laugh. The location was perfect for all the hiking that we did. Short drive to Sedona and Prescott where the terrain is different and beautiful. Daisy mountain was very close and very challenging. It was great to come and sit by the pool after a day of hiking, though a bit too cold to jump in. We ate in the apartment almost all of our meals except two. We followed their recommendation for El Encanto Dos and it was very good. In short, we loved this apartment and highly recommend it. Susan and Dan were great hosts and neighbors for the week.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth P., Lansing,MI

Liked: Cleanliness

Burros, pool, hot tub, desert hikes!

Very clean, well stocked, plushy casita. At the end of a short gravel road with the Sonoran desert at our doorstep. A welcome basket of snacks and comforts of home were an unexpected bonus! Probably the best VRBO we’ve stayed at- and we’ve traveled a lot in 10 yrs! Shopping only 5 miles away. Fire pit and outdoor viewing area for viewing sunsets. Very relaxing, away from the hustle & bustle of Phoenix! We’ll be back.
Stayed 10 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elisa S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fit the bill

The Casita is exactly as shown. Good location, quiet, private and filled with all the needed amenities. If you are considering booking, don't wait! Just book it, you will be very happy you did.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carolyn B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing

Everything was perfect! Absolutely beautiful property (outside and inside), impeccably clean, every detail was considered and we were so comfortable here. Property managers were very easy to reach and friendly. I hope to stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024