History of the Farm
Once Upon a Time…
Once an Arabian horse ranch, now transformed into a stunning retreat known as Aravaipa Farms. The Garden Casita and outdoor Ramada still hold onto the ranch's rich history, featuring the original barn doors. Even though the horses are no longer there, various creative minds have since brought forth the enchanting property we see today.
The Farm
Step into the story of Aravaipa Farms, where Bill Farney's dream came to life in 1984. Nestled in the captivating Aravaipa Canyon, Bill, with his expertise from his family's orchards in California, planted over 2,000 Asian pear, peach, and apricot trees. Today, some of those very trees still thrive.
Bill, his family, and their Farmhouse were the heart and soul of the orchard, with Bill being an early pioneer of organic farming. However, without any local food movements to support him, Bill and his family made the tough decision to sell the farm to the "Godmother of the Phoenix culinary scene," Carol Steele, in 1995.
The Inn
Carol had a new dream - to create an authentic farm-to-table experience in a remote canyon inn. With a passion for cooking, she wanted to offer guests breakfast, lunch, and dinner made from fresh ingredients grown directly on the farm. Carol envisioned a unique culinary experience where visitors could escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Moving into the Farmhouse, Carol teamed up with cowboy artisan Lazaro Cervantes to build most of the casitas and outbuildings, and even a refreshing pool for guests to relax in.
Carol's reputation as a culinary genius quickly spread, attracting visitors from all over the world. People of all interests, such as hikers, birders, artists, and yogis, came to Aravaipa Farms seeking to unwind and reconnect with nature."
The Orchard and Inn
The Madden family had a love for nature and knew the magic it could bring to people's lives. When they heard that Carol was looking to sell the farm, they saw an opportunity to share their passion with guests. As Arizona natives, they had spent many unforgettable moments with their family surrounded by natural beauty, and they wanted to provide the same experience with others.
Beginning in the summer of 2016, they spent five years, lovingly restoring the Orchard and Inn, planting new trees and renovating the buildings. They were fortunate to have Carol living across the creek for advice, as well as the guidance of Bill Farney, who returned to the orchard to mentor them on growing organic, local stonefruit.
Sadly, Bill passed away in 2018, but his teachings and memories have lived on through the care the Maddens gave to the orchard. Aravaipa Farms has been immensely blessed to have had such valuable guidance from him.
A Place of Peace and a Labor of Love
The Madden family sold the farm in 2021. The new owners have several other small bed & breakfasts around the beautiful Sedona area, making Aravaipa Farms the perfect sister property. They are passionate about the earth and giving back to it, and they are not afraid to roll up their sleeves & get their hands dirty! They have plans to further beautify the property, add more animal friends, and continue building upon the legacy created before them to further connect people with nature.
