So my mother had talked about visiting Sedona for quite some time. So last year, we decided instead of exchanging gifts for Christmas, we would go on a mother/daughter trip! Most family vacations involved going to the beach. I will take golden sands and crystal blue waters any day! But we were excited to experience something different...the magic of the red rocks.
We flew into Phoenix airport via Southwest airlines. Then we rented a car and drove the scenic 2-hour journey to Sedona. It wasn't a bad drive. It was cool to see how the scenery changed as we drove. From the city into green mountainous areas to the pinks and reds of the desert.
Winding along the small two-lane town roads, we finally arrived at our hotel L'Auberge de Sedona. The property is beautiful! It is down in a valley of the red rocks near a stream. They have an awesome valet service that took care of our car as we went inside to check-in. The staff was super attentive and kind. As our bags were being taken to our room, we decided to check out the property. Getting into full vacation mode, we grabbed a delicious rose wine at the bar and made our way outside to the river. When the weather is warmer, they have a spa treatment called "Forrest Bathing" where you get in the river. It was February when we were visiting. So we just looked at the stream and enjoyed its tranquility. There is a bit of a path to some large rocks, and further down a small bridge that will get you closer to the water.
After a full day of travel, we were ready to get some dinner. We headed to the room to spruce ourselves up. We stayed in one of the lodges that have multiple rooms. The hotel also has private cabins that are closer to the river. One of the things I really enjoyed was outside the lodge was a water bottle filter. So I could continue refilling the one I brought.
Being highly suggested by the staff, we went to The Hudson for dinner our first night. The hotel has a complimentary valet service, which is super helpful since there is very limited parking in downtown Sedona. They drop you off anywhere in the downtown Sedona area. Then you give them a call when you are ready to be picked up. The restaurant, The Hudson, has a fantastic view of the red rocks, so we chose to sit outside.
The thing about the desert in February, it is quite nice and warm during the day, but as soon as that sun sets, it gets very chilly. We did have on layers, and there were heat lamps. The food was incredible! I highly suggest getting the bruschetta options for a starter.
The next day we had our Pink Jeep Tour! The hotel and the Pink Jeep Tour company have an arrangement, so they picked us up at the hotel for the tour.
We did the Scenic Rim Tour that lasted 2 hours. The views were incredible!
Back in the day, when the roads were better-taken care of, people used to drive their actual cars up here. But now, unless you have a special off-roading vehicle, you wouldn't be able to handle the rocky roads.
Our tour guide was fantastic! Super funny and knowledgeable. Originally we had planned on going to Devil's Bridge for a hike after, but I always prefer getting information from locals about where to go and what to do. They warned us that parking for Devil's Bridge is rough and has become overly popular because of Instagram. We wanted to do an easy level hike since my mom has arthritis, so they suggested Doe Mountain.
The parking lot for the Doe Mountain is small, but there is plenty of easy parking along the main road near the lot. The path is winding but not too steep.
There were a few sections where we had to climb over some shifty rocks and another where we had to get on our hands and knees to pop up to the next level.
But it so worth it for the views when you get to the top. There was us and another couple that was having a picnic up there.
After our mountain climb, we were ready for some Mexican food! We went to the arts and craft village, Tlaquepaque (pronounced ta-la-ka-pa-kee).
In there is the restaurant El Ricon. While we waited for a table, we shopped around the village. Both of us wanted some turquoise jewelry as a memento from our trip. We found this little store with jewelry and trinkets made by different tribes in the area. Both of our necklaces and earrings we purchased were crafted by members of the Zuni tribe.
And funny story, one of the workers we met and chatted with was good friends with a friend of mine that I had danced with back in Texas! It is a small world after all.
The following day we checked out some sights! But before we went anywhere I spent some time that morning feeding ducks that were enjoying the fresh morning waters of the river.
We drove out to Montezuma Castle. It was about a 40-minute drive from where we were staying in Sedona. There are several levels to the castle. You are no longer able to go inside the structure due to deterioration and safety. The castle's height protected them from enemies and the rising waters, as there is a river near. We saw beavers floating down to the river towards the dams.
Next stop was the Chapel of the Holy Cross. It is located just on the outer edge of Sedona when driving in. The church's construction makes it seem it is coming forth from the red rocks.
There is a parking lot for the church, but there are also small lots and parking along the road at the bottom of the hill. Since we parked towards the bottom, we had quite the hike up to the church. From the road, you see a cross, its color matching the reddish tint. On each side of the cross are giant glass panels, allowing you to look at the beauty surrounding you. Inside is a statue of Jesus nailed to the cross, which is also the tree of knowledge. It was such a beautiful and spiritual experience.
Driving back to the hotel, we decided to stop at this shop called Garland's Navajo Rugs we had passed a few times while exploring Sedona. They have authentic rugs, blankets, jewelry, jackets, and trinkets. I got a beautiful blanket there! I love decorating my place with stuff from my travels. It is more than just a blanket. It is now a memory.
Mariposa is one of the most popular restaurants in Sedona. Not just for their views, but their gourmet Latin style cuisine. We sipped on their deliciously potent cocktails and dined on a smorgasbord of delectable Latin dishes. It is totally worth all the hype!
At our hotel, there are a lot of extra activities and offerings included. One was complimentary gourmet smores kits that you can roast at any one of their fire pits. A perfect treat to enjoy on a cold desert night.
We had had a busy trip full of activities. So for our final day, we decided to relax at Sedona's New Day Spa with massages and facials. It is a very quaint spa. There is a lovely patio area with a jacuzzi to enjoy in between your spa sessions. They also have complimentary snacks and beverages. We even got to meet the owner, who was such a lovely lady. And of my research, this spa had great services for very reasonable prices.
And poetically, we ended our trip with where it began, enjoying sunset views and yummy food at The Hudson. This trip was different than our beach adventures, but it left us wanting more. Desire to explore more of the magical red rocks and the mysterious desert. And most of all, I enjoyed creating these memories with my mother. Because that is always the best thing about any trip, is the memories you make with the people you are with.
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