Surrounded by soaring crimson monoliths, cobalt skies, and sagebrush-and-juniper desert, Sedona is an inherently meditative locale — which is precisely why hippies and New Age spiritual seekers started flocking here in the '60s.
Located 115 miles north of Phoenix, the town of 10,400 now draws a wider audience, including hiking and biking enthusiasts and history buffs lured by the area’s rich Native American heritage. In the last eight years, a host of top-notch spas have opened among the crystal shops and art galleries, making Sedona a capital of not only spiritual renewal and outdoor adventure but also holistic wellness. Planning a quick weekend getaway or longer spa vacation to Sedona, Arizona? Check out our trip planner below:
STAY: SEDONA RESORTS & HOTELS
About seven miles west of downtown in a canyon speckled with wild sage and ancient Native American dwellings, Mii amo, a destination spa at the Enchantment Resort has a three-day minimum and builds each vacation around a specific focus. If you only need a room for one night, opt instead for the nearby Enchantment Resort, which will still afford you access to Mii amo’s amazing spa and therapists. (Only guests at Mii amo or Enchantment can book treatments there.)
Interested in downtown Sedona? Try Sedona Rouge Hotel & Spa, an affordable hotel with enough red-rock views to keep nature lovers happy.
EXPLORE: HIKING, PSYCHICS AND HORSEBACK RIDING
Locals insist that Sedona owes its spiritual power in part to its vortexes: areas flowing with subtle energy that fuels healing experiences. Whether you’re a believer or not, plan to hike the easy five-mile loop trail to the Boynton Canyon vortex just after dawn, when the gorge is at its most serene. (The trailhead is near Enchantment Resort.) Yoga classes are also offered in the vortex and can be scheduled through many of the area’s resorts.
For a true immersion in the Sedona lifestyle, head downtown to the Crystal Castle (928-282-5910), one of the most reputable psychic shops in town despite its hokey name, where you can arrange a tarot card or clairvoyant reading. (Try a session with Carrie Konyha.)
An afternoon horseback ride with Trail Horse Adventures (from $64 for 60 minutes) through the stark desert 20 miles south of the city may provide a more tangible experience of Sedona’s power. Afternoon thunderclouds often trade lightning bolts across the sky miles away, a sight sure to leave you marveling at the poetic beauty of nature as you ride through vast open spaces.
Next: Where to spa, eat and meditate.
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Comments
I had the great pleasure of spending several days at Mii Amo/Enchantment Resort this summer. A must for your bucket list! Treatments at Mii Amo were amazing, the service at both spectacular, the food - wonderful! Everyone from the cleaning ladies to the GM at both made us feel at home and that there was no request too big or too small. Excellent hiking for all levels of hikers just out your door. If you're not into hiking, there are many other activities to enjoy, even in the summer! Be sure to take a Pink Jeep Tour too.