If you’re looking for a southwestern retreat where you can reconnect with nature in a luxurious fashion, L’Auberge de Sedona in Sedona, Arizona is a great weekend getaway.
Whether you choose a cozy Creek cottage with the calming sounds of gurgling water or a Vista cottage with sweeping views of the mountains and instagram worthy sunsets, this newly renovated property seizes the sublime character of the region with activities like astronomer-led stargazing in what some call the clearest sky in the nation and “forest bathing” (a kind of walking meditation). Start the day with a guided hike in the majestic Red Rocks led by the local outfit The Hike House (www.thehikehouse) and see some of mother nature’s finest landscaping. Yoga is offered almost every day and while you’re at it get pampered at the L’Apothecary Spa, where this writer woke up with a snore during her Quiet Mind Treatment massage – a testament to true relaxation.
If you want to venture off property, take a trip to Page Spring Cellars (http://pagespringscellars.com) where old world style wines blended from 30 varietals grown locally pair nicely with their rustic menu featuring stone fired pizzas, charcuterie and Mediterranean vegetarian friendly platters. Back at L’Auberge de Sedona, order cocktails creek side at Etch Kitchen & Bar where causal Tapas style bites can be enjoyed with seasonally driven cocktails. For fine dining, indulge in a tasting menu at Cress prepared by chef Rochelle Daniel, one of the region’s most acclaimed chefs, who forages local ingredients like watercress, rosemary and mesquite and uses them in her modern interpretations of classics like Cornish Game Hen and Venison. By the time you’re ready to checkout, hopefully you’ve spent some quality time away from your hand-held device and you can incorporate the calm beauty of your stay into your every day life.
