Traveling can sometimes feel like a distant dream, especially with all the travel restrictions the past couple of years. After several planned trips were either canceled or postponed, my wife, Holly, and I found ourselves in need of a change of scenery. We had originally planned a trip to Mexico to celebrate both our friend’s anniversary and our own, but due to unforeseen circumstances, we had to cancel. Instead of giving up, we decided to pivot and plan a domestic vacation.
After a bit of searching, we settled on a 3-night stay in Sedona, Arizona, followed by a few days in Las Vegas. We had visited Sedona before, and it had left such a lasting impression on us that we couldn’t wait to return. With the pandemic still ongoing, we thought a trip focused on outdoor activities and beautiful landscapes would be the perfect way to spend our time.
Why Sedona?
Sedona, Arizona, is a hidden gem in North Central Arizona. Located about 100 miles north of Phoenix, this charming town is famous for its stunning red rock formations, beautiful hiking trails, and vibrant arts scene. The area also has a unique spiritual allure, drawing people who believe in its healing “vortexes,” which are thought to be areas filled with powerful energy that promote personal growth and wellness.
We wanted a relaxing, nature-filled escape, so Sedona seemed like the ideal destination for us.
Our Stay in Sedona
For our accommodation, we wanted something that would give us a more intimate and peaceful experience. Our previous stay at the Hilton Sedona Resort had been underwhelming, so this time, we decided to splurge a bit and found a charming Airbnb.
The property was a serene oasis tucked against the breathtaking red rock landscape. It was a small, private retreat with three guest suites, each offering a quiet and relaxing escape. Our suite was cozy, featuring a comfortable bed, a gas fireplace, a mini-fridge, and a lovely patio with incredible views. We spent many mornings and evenings enjoying meals on the terrace while soaking in the natural beauty around us.
The property’s hosts, Huib and Iona, had created a calm, healing atmosphere. The grounds included a spa area with a sauna, steam room, and hot tub, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of hiking. The hosts also offered unique wellness experiences, including massage therapy and Reiki sessions, which we couldn’t resist trying. If you’re a wine lover, Huib, a Master Sommelier, even offers wine tastings on the property.
While the stay was nearly perfect, the only minor hiccup was that the laundry service could have been a bit better organized, but this was a small detail in an otherwise wonderful experience.
Exploring Sedona
One of the main reasons we returned to Sedona was the hiking. With more than a dozen trailheads accessible directly from our Airbnb, we were in hiking heaven. On our first day, we ventured out on the Sugarloaf Loop trail, a relatively easy hike that rewarded us with stunning views. We ended up doing the loop three times, adding some extra miles for fun.
Our longest hike took place on the third day, when we hiked from Teacup Trail to Soldier’s Pass and up to Brins Mesa. The panoramic views from the top were worth every step, and we enjoyed a relaxing lunch with the perfect backdrop. We covered over 8 miles that day, gaining about 1,000 feet in elevation—an exhausting but incredibly rewarding experience.
If hiking isn’t your thing, Sedona offers plenty of other activities. I decided to bring my golf clubs and played a round at the Sedona Golf Resort, a beautiful and accessible course with stunning views of the surrounding red rocks. It was a great way to relax while enjoying the scenery.
Other Things to Do in Sedona
Aside from hiking and golf, there are plenty of other things to experience in Sedona. Main Street is a must-visit, with its vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. If you want to take in the landscapes from a different perspective, a jeep tour through the red rocks is an unforgettable way to explore the area.
We also decided to take a quick trip to the Grand Canyon, which is only about two hours away. It was the perfect way to extend our outdoor adventure and make the most of our time in the region. If you have time, I highly recommend visiting Seligman, Arizona, a quirky town along Historic Route 66, which we stumbled upon on our drive from Las Vegas to Sedona.
Final Thoughts
Our impromptu trip to Sedona was exactly what we needed. Despite the setbacks of canceling our international trip, we were able to create new memories in one of the most beautiful places in the U.S. From hiking the red rocks to relaxing in a luxurious Airbnb, this getaway offered a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. We’ll definitely be back to Sedona in the future—next time, hopefully with our kids in tow.
Until next time, happy traveling!
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