Finding Rejuvenation in Sedona

As a purveyor of travel wisdom, I am frequently asked about visiting the iconic Grand Canyon. Yet, more often than not, my advice is: "Skip the Grand Canyon and set your sights on Sedona instead." Here, amidst the majestic embrace of the Sedona landscape, you will discover world-class luxury accommodations, dining that tantalizes the senses, and a unique shopping experience. In Sedona, you are enveloped by a panorama of breathtaking red rock formations that stand as a testament to nature's artistic prowess. Here, adventure awaits in the form of invigorating hikes, swimming in Oak Creek, ATV rides, star gazing, and a myriad of other outdoor activities. And for those whose inclinations do not lean toward hoofing the trailing, an exhilarating jeep tour unveils the secrets of this enchanting desert landscape. Sedona, revered as a sanctuary for spiritual and physical rejuvenation, also boasts a thriving art scene that is sure to captivate the connoisseur within you. With Sedona a quick 5-hour journey from Newport Beach, it makes it an excellent choice for weekend getaways. I recently went for a Momcation (that’s a vacation for only moms) and found relaxation and rejuvenation.

We selected to stay with L’Auberge de Sedona, ideally located in the heart of Sedona. The hotel has a nearly unmarked entrance from the street, but as you descend into this private luxury enclave, you realize L'Auberge de Sedona is no ordinary retreat. The hotel, unexpectedly nestled beneath a verdant canopy of trees along the banks of Oak Creek, offers a sanctuary from the desert heat in summer and an awe-inspiring tapestry of colors in the fall. We stayed in a garden cottage ensconced amidst lush foliage. The hotel grounds reveal the wooded underbelly of Sedona’s desert landscape. This is no Palm Springs or Phoenix with their vast, empty landscapes. Here the desert wraps her arms aroung you. Each garden cottage is replete with a private deck, sumptuous linens, and a wood-burning fireplace that serenaded us to sleep with its mesmerizing crackle. A word of advice: If you are looking to savor unparalleled views of the Sedona landscape, opt for a Vista Cottage room.

The true essence of a hotel often lies in the subtlest of details, and the L'Auberge de Sedona’s signature slippers are a testament to this profound truth. These lush slippers, cloaked in an unexpected shade of elegant grey, emanate an air of luxury. They reflect the unwavering commitment of the staff to curate an unparalleled guest experience. It comes as no surprise that L'Auberge de Sedona has been crowned the # 1 Hotel in the Southwest and West in the esteemed Conde Nast Readers’ Choice Awards in 2023.

No getaway is complete without indulging in some self-care. The hotel's spa, L'Apothecary,

stands as a testament to nature's innate ability to rejuvenate the body and soul. While the spa offers an array of traditional treatments, such as facials and deep-tissue massages, it also offers extraordinary experiences like Sound Healing Baths and the Unleash Your Visions Workshop—an ideal way to kick off a promising year in 2024. We had planned an ambitious itinerary of hiking, shopping, and eating, but we found it hard to pull ourselves away from this wonderful retreat. Instead, we mostly sipped Frosés by the pool in between spa treatments. Insider Tip:  Check the hotel calendar of events, which frequently includes complimentary yoga and meditation sessions.

The hotel is home to the delectable Cress restaurant, a culinary gem that has garnered accolades from the discerning readers of Food & Wine. It claims the prestigious # 4 spot in the realm of Best Hotels for Food and boasts the esteemed # 3 position in Best Hotel Bars. Perched serenely creekside, this restaurant beckons diners to indulge in al fresco dining amidst the natural splendors of Sedona. We were fortunate enough to experience its culinary delights not once but twice, relishing a lavish dinner and an unforgettable Sunday Brunch. A word of advice: secure your dinner reservations when you book your accommodations.

After a day of rejuvenation at the resort, we spent our second day exploring Sedona. We headed to The Hudson for lunch. It boasts a mesmerizing panorama of Sedona complemented by a delicious yet approachable menu, local craft beers, and cocktails. Following our meal, we ventured to the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, a treasure trove of art galleries and boutiques that showcase local artistry. Insider Tip: Leverage the hotel's complimentary car service to explore the city. Sedona's traffic can prove frustrating, and parking is often at a premium. The on-demand car service effortlessly alleviates the stress of navigating new places.

Sedona, with its resplendent red-rock embrace, bestows upon its visitors a profound sense of place and rejuvenation. It wraps its crimson arms around you, inviting you to linger, to savor, and to experience the transformative allure of this desert haven. In Sedona, the spirit is revived, the soul is rekindled, and the heart finds solace amid the embrace of nature's resplendent beauty.