Sedona is pure magic. We read about the vortex energy prior to arriving but were totally surprised by how special it would feel once we there. There is a sense of peace and relaxation in this place that we haven’t felt anywhere else. You have to experience it yourself to believe it!
Where to Stay: Enchantment Resort
We chose Enchantment for its stunning views, amenities, and easy proximity to hiking trails. That being said, the resort is located about 20 mins from town and is quite secluded. Cell service was at times spotty, but we found it to be a nice detach from reality. L’Auberge de Sedona is the best option if you want to be in town and walkable to restaurants outside of the resort. Note that the town of Sedona is sleepy and pretty much everything closes around 9:00 so not much nightlife or things to do after dinner. Because of this, we found Enchantment to be the best option. You’ll never get tired of those views of the Red Rocks!
Day 1:
Arrival: We flew into Phoenix and rented a car (convertible if you can!). The drive is only about two hours. The views coming into town on the Red Rock Scenic Byway will take your breath away. We arrived in the early afternoon and took some time to check out The Chapel of the Holy Cross and Cathedral Rock as we made our way to Enchantment.
Dinner: Che ah Chi (at Enchantment). We stopped for sunset cocktails and the views from the deck were just so stunning we didn’t want to leave. Food was above average, but worth every penny for that view and the convenience.
Day 2:
Daytime: Start the day with a hike. The trail house at Enchantment is newly built and the staff was super helpful in planning for your needs. They offer guided hikes as well, but we were happy to explore on our own. We chose the Boynton Canyon hike and it was just stunning (best for moderate fitness levels). We took some time to sit at the top and just relax before making our way back down to breakfast. Start early as it can get uncomfortably hot as the day goes on.
After the hike, we were invigorated and hungry and headed to the restaurant at Mii Amo spa. We book hotel stays through American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts whenever possible, which includes a complimentary breakfast. The breakfast at Mii Amo was one of our most memorable hotel breakfasts so we didn’t venture out for breakfast during our stay.
Options for the afternoon include lounging by the pool, a game of tennis, or enjoying some of the other resort amenities.
Dinner: The Hudson (in town). You can make a reservation, but you have to request an outside table in person when you get there. Arrive early and have a drink at the bar while waiting for a table on the deck. It’s worth it!
Day 3:
Daytime: We arranged for a sunrise yoga hike with Yogi Blair, owner of Vortex Yoga Hiking in Sedona. The EARLY wake-up was so worth it. Yogi Blair met us at the gates of Enchantment and we followed him to a secluded hiking trail. He was such an interesting man with unending knowledge of the area. Ask all the questions to learn about what makes this place so special. We reached the summit just at sunrise and Yogi Blair led us through our yoga practice and meditation with hot air balloons rising in the distance. Simply spectacular and a must-do for both beginners and experts. We then returned for a leisurely breakfast at the resort.
Because we had such an early start, we had the whole day ahead of us. We decided to head into town for some shopping. Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village was a fun spot to roam around. WARNING: traffic and parking can be brutal especially on weekends and during peak season. Be patient and use that calming vortex energy. Explore the shops and grab lunch from one of the many restaurants in the village before heading back for some spa and/or pool time. We made massage appointments at Mii Amo for the afternoon and enjoyed both the services and spa facility. With a service, you have access to the spa pool, which was far quieter (adults only) and had convenient food and drink service.
* NOTE: check for updates on their website as the spa was closing for a time to undergo a major renovation.
Dinner: Mariposa (in town). Get ready, this place is STUNNING! Reserve around sunset and be sure to get a table on the deck (even if you have to wait). The service was phenomenal and the food was outstanding. We may have gone twice if we had tried it earlier in our stay.
Day 4:
Daytime: If you’re hiked out, you may want to consider trying out mountain biking, tennis, or an outdoor fitness class to start the day. We decided to take advantage of one more morning hike and breakfast before heading out. Yogi Blair had told us that one of the most powerful vortex areas in all of Sedona was an easy hike just behind Mii Amo. The Vista Trail (Kachina Woman) was an uphill, but short hike with beautiful views. We spent some time sitting at the top before heading down for one last Enchantment breakfast.
Other Sedona hikes: We found the hikes just outside of Enchantment to be convenient and absolutely beautiful, but of course, Sedona has tons more to offer. Just be aware that parking at the popular hiking spots is limited and the trails can get hot and crowded. When you drive into town you’ll be able to spot these locations by the cars lining the road and tired hikers making their way back to their vehicles. We prefer a more secluded trail, but the pictures from Devil’s Bridge, Seven Sacred Pools, and Soldier’s Pass are gorgeous!
We hope you enjoy your visit to Sedona as much as we did. The best recommendation we can make is really taking time and soak in the energy in this place…sounds weird, but you’ll understand when you get there. Cheers!
RESOURCES
Hikes:
Devil’s Bridge
Seven Sacred Pools
Soldier’s Pass
Sunrise Yoga Hike - Vortex Yoga Hiking
Restaurants:
Hotel:
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