When my husband asked how I wanted to celebrate my 40th birthday, I immediately blurted out "I want to go to the desert!" Needless to say, he was slightly confused at my request to go to the land of cactus and dirt for my birthday, vs. some tropical beach resort, lol. But let me explain...
Sedona, Arizona is known for it's art community, it's steep canyon walls, and red rock buttes with stunning views. It offers a beautiful blend of nature and high end resorts and incredible restaurants. It is unlike any other place I have ever been, and it's been on my bucket list for years. We had the most amazing trip and enjoyed every minute of rustic exploration mixed with luxury. So I'm spilling the beans and sharing details of our trip so you can plan your own!
We chose the Enchantment Hotel for a true taste of luxury nestled between the red rock walls of Boynton Canyon. With plenty of hiking trails accessible directly from the resort, tennis courts, multiple pools and three restaurants, you could spend your whole trip at the resort without ever needing a reason to leave. And of course their spa is pretty killer- you know I indulged in a treatment or two!
I would recommend a September trip over and over again - it's not too hot and if you're coming from the East Coast, the two hour time difference works in your favor. We were up before dawn and hit the trails before the crowds arrived and before things got too steamy out. This left us plenty of time to grab a solid brunch, lounge by the pool, play tennis or explore town before an early dinner reservation. Reservations can be tough to get at some of the top restaurants so those early availabilities really worked in our favor.
There is truly so much to do, I've created a list of our favorites that I know you'll love!
Hiking:
Devil’s Bridge is top of my list for hikes. Go EARLY if you can- this one is super
popular but worth it in my opinion of you can get up early and hit the trail before
anyone else. The trail is about 4 miles, out and back from the trailhead (2-3 hours).
Another favorite hike was Cathedral Rock Trail. This 1.2 mile round trip is a bit steep in places but there are plenty of opportunities to stop and look around to enjoy the view. Soldier Pass Trail is a moderately rated 4.1-mile round trip hike with plenty to see the entire way. This trail includes Devil’s Kitchen Sinkhole, the Seven Sacred Pools, and a number of caves in addition to the craziest change in scenery during the elevation change. The parking lot is seriously tiny, so go as
early as you can!
Restaurants:
We hit up Indian Gardens Market for post hike breakfast burritos, and it did not disappoint! Located right outside town, this little market has everything from snacks and drinks to all day breakfast sandwiches. Grab your grub and take it out to the back patio where you'll find the sweetest little garden seating area. Definitely worth the drive!
Cowboy Club is a funky little bar right on the main drag that's the perfect spot to grab a drink or too and take a break from the heat. With a saloon style feel Insider tip- get the cactus fries, you won't regret it!
Mariposa is one of the nicest fine dining establishments located right outside of the main strip of town. This latin inspired cuisine has everything you want in an incredibly elevated meal. It can be tough to get a reservation, so plan ahead.
Elote features Southwestern and Mexican cuisine with a killer bar. Tequila for days and so many amazing dishes, we sat at the bar and had the best night. Reservations fill up quickly but if you arrive right when it opens you can sit at the bar and enjoy the full menu. They also do take out!
Shopping:
Tlaquepaque Village is a must see if you're into local art. This historic Spanish architecture houses local artisans from jewelrysmiths to artists, and we even ran into live music in the middle of the courtyard. Parking is can be a bit tricky, but it's well worth it!
And of course the main drag of Sedona has shops galore. Lots of touristy ones mixed with authentic southwestern flair. You might just get your fortune read or take home to crystals to cleanse your aura.
The biggest surprise of my trip was the helicopter ride my husband set up for us as a birthday gift! We toured around the canyons and buttes, surrounded by red rocks on a personal tour with Guidance Air. I cannot recommend them enough- I felt safe and secure the whole time, and honestly it was one of the most incredible adventures I've taken to date!
