Mention the words beautiful places and chances are images of white sand beaches and maybe even snow-capped mountains immediately come to mind. And it’s true, these are the destinations that are typically conjured up, and often for very good reason.
But sometimes you get that urge to venture somewhere new, a desire to experience an alternative kind of adventure with a completely different kind of topography. You find yourself relishing in a different kind of splendor, connecting to and savoring a different sort of encounter. And just like that, you’re acutely aware of just how distinct and exquisite this type of rugged raw beauty can actually be.
For me, Sedona is one of these kinds of special destinations. A place that’s as dramatic as it is spiritual, as striking as it is revitalizing, and as vibrant as it is calming. It is a magical sanctuary brimming with breathtaking grandeur, oozing of countless opportunities for renewal and rejuvenation.
Often referred to by locals as a cathedral without walls, Sedona offers spectacular landscapes, characterized by rusted red cliffs and buttes, and imposing mesas that rear up against a crisp and empty sky. Sedona is easily one of my all-time favorite American outdoor destinations.
My friend Michelle and I spent three delightful days in Sedona, basking in all of its magnificence and brilliance. Below are the highlights from our wonderful trip.
Michelle and I falling in love with stunning Sedona
Channel Your Inner Rockstar: Pink Jeep Adventures Tour
One of the highlights of our time in Sedona was going on a Pink Jeep Adventure Tour. We opted for the Broken Arrow and Scenic Rim Combo tour where we went four-wheeling on top of imposing red rocks and unpaved off-road trails to explore the Broken Arrow trail and Scenic Rim.
Cruising through the rugged desert landscapes offered breathtaking views of towering rock formations and jagged sandstone cliffs. Sedona’s backcountry is spectacular–so much raw natural beauty just waiting to be explored!
There are a number of opportunities to explore the region by foot and clamber over massive uneven rock formations.
Those arduous climbs are more than worth it as you are rewarded with staggering panoramic vistas.
Perhaps the most thrilling part of the tour is its grand finale: The Road of No Return. Grip onto your handlebars for dear life as your (super-skilled, I should add) driver navigates jutting rocks and roots along the way to the bottom of a ridiculously steep descent.
Things to know: The Broken Arrow and Scenic Rim Combo runs approximately 3 hours and costs $150/person. Shorter and less expensive tours are also offered.
Shine Bright Like a Diamond: Stargazing in Sedona
Few things are more mesmerizing than gazing up at a clear nighttime sky populated by what seems like thousands of dazzling stars. We booked a tour with Sedona Star Gazing, where we were led through a guided viewing of various celestial objects through ginormously (totally a word) powerful telescopes. Our brilliant astronomers were extremely knowledgeable, patient, and witty. Chairs and blankets are provided for your pure gazing comfort.
Things to know: Tours begin after 7:30 p.m., run approximately 90 minutes and cost $40-$70 per person, depending on time of year. Evening Sky Tours is located about 20 minutes from Sedona’s center.
Nourish and Pamper Your Soul at the Spa
There is no shortage of incredible spas in Sedona, and it would be a downright shame to not indulge in some self-care and soul-savoring happiness while you’re here. We spent a glorious afternoon at Sedona’s New Day Spa. From the moment we stepped into this tranquil oasis, a sense of calm and stillness washed over us. We pampered ourselves with an array of desert nature body treatments and facials and loved every sublime second. The staff was gracious and attentive and the space was soothing and serene. Highly recommend!
Sedona’s Arts & Shopping Scene
Deeply rooted in the arts, Sedona is a vibrant town that celebrates and reveres local artisans and craftsmanship. There are so many areas throughout Sedona to relish in some good ‘ol retail therapy, it can be somewhat overwhelming. Of course, in my book, having an abundance of shopping options is always a good problem to have.
One spot not to be missed is Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village. This charming outdoor market is adorned with beautiful greenery, cobblestone pathways, and decorative archways. Home to a variety of stunning art galleries, delightful crafts shops, and interesting specialty shops, this adorable village seems to have something for everything.
Sedona’s Main Street is fun to meander– here you’ll find vendors selling everything from Apache rings, necklaces, blankets, crystals and stone collections. There are also a number of eateries to grab lunch, ice cream, and coffee. The area is undoubtedly catered to tourists, so you’ll find your fair share of tacky t-shirt and souvenir shops, too. Still, it’s definitely worth a quick visit.
Where To Stay
We stayed at the lovely Sedona Rouge Hotel. Located in the heart of Sedona, the hotel is near plenty of restaurants, shops, and bars, and also overlooks sweeping views of the surrounding red rocks and majestic mountains. Rates are affordable rooms are comfortable and well-appointed. A great option for those who want the most out of their stay without spending a fortune.
Staggering views from the hotel’s observation deck
Bottom Line
Sedona should be prominently featured on any traveler’s bucket list. Its stunning red rock formations serve as a backdrop for a wide array of activities ranging from thrilling adventures to soothing and invigorating wellness retreats. A trip to Sedona promises to leave you feeling fullfilled, energized, and invigorated.
Happy Traveling, All!
Cheers to beautiful friends in beautiful places!
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