Destination Sedona, Arizona. The land of sublime red rock formations, energy vortex’s and fresh air. A southwest city who’s destination promises an escape from the ordinary and a journey into the extraordinary. Five hour direct flight from Miami to Phoenix, and another two-hour scenic car drive, Sedona welcomes travelers with open arms, offering a sensory feast for the mind, body, and soul.

As you venture into the heart of Sedona, prepare to be mesmerized by its wild west charm. With over 400 miles of hiking trails ready to be explored by foot and bike, Sedona offers over 250 scenic trails, weaving through its terrain, nature enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise. This area, home to over 300 species of cacti alone, boasts a diverse biome encompassing grasslands, deserts, arid and wet regions, as well as forests. Sedona’s elevation of 4,300 feet sets the stage for its iconic red-rock buttes, steep canyon walls, and majestic pine forests, creating a shifting canvas of crimson to brown hues, depending on the whims of weather and light.

For a home away from home experience stay at The Arabella Hotel Sedona. The perfect destination for couples and families alike. It offers elegant, yet rustic accommodations, centrally located amidst the splendor of Sedona’s landscape. The Hotel named for Sedona Arabella Schnebly, the namesake of this beautiful town and a warm-hearted pioneer woman who came to Arizona Territory with her husband Theodore Carlton (TC) Schnebly in 1901. The Hotel was once home to both The Sedona Lodge and Soundstage where many western movies were filmed during the 1940’s – 1960’s. John Wayne, Elvis Presley, Henry Fonda, James Stewart and Marlon Brando all filmed movies with the gorgeous backdrop of Sedona’s Red Rock mountains.

The present Hotel has 144 rooms, furnished with elegant rustic accents and decor, has all the amenities of home. The Arabella seamlessly blends the comfort of home with nature’s grandeur. However, the true highlight lies in each room’s balcony overlooking both the pool and jacuzzi, where guests can unwind on a hanging swing chair while soaking up the amazing panoramic views of the nearby Red Rock Mountains.

Each morning begins with a VERY impressive, complimentary hot breakfast buffet – tank up, and you’re ready to hit the trails! Explore the town and its charms, opting for the hotel complimentary cruiser bikes, ideal for navigating the streets, especially during high season March to May and September through mid-December.

In the late afternoons, guests are treated to live music accompanied by local beer and wine tastings, set against the backdrop of the hotel’s poolside fire pits, where free S’more kits await to be savored with family and friends. At the end of day , a short hike from the parking lot leads to a vista point, a prime spot to witness the mountains come to life reflecting the sun setting rays. It’s also the perfect spot for stargazing and marveling at the vast expanse of Sedona’s night sky.

At The Arabella, every member of the family is welcomed, including the furry ones. With a well-maintained dog park and special treats available at the front desk, even pets are indulged and pampered.

In Sedona, nature’s majesty beckons at every turn, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its awe-inspiring beauty and find solace within the rock formations. Solace comes in the form of vortexes – seven to be exact in close vicinity of one another. These seven are believed to emit healing, meditation and self-exploration energy. This writer arrived afflicted by back pain and after visiting four of the vortexes, back pain was gone. Coincidence? Or did the vortexes energy clear and rejuvenate my body and spirit? I tend to believe the latter.

No visit to Sedona is complete without indulging in its thriving art community. Stroll through the charming streets adorned with restaurants, galleries and boutiques, where local artists proudly display their creations. From paintings and sculptures to pottery, clothing, and exquisite Navajo Nation and local artisan jewelry, each piece tells a story of the rich cultural tapestry that defines the Southwest. Whether browsing through solo or co-op galleries, connecting with the artists’ creations offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the culture and vibe of Sedona.

A three-hour car journey to northern Arizona where Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend await. These two destinations beckon adventurers to witness nature’s exquisite craftsmanship. Lower Antelope Canyon, carved into Navajo sandstone over millions of years by flash floods and wind, offers a mesmerizing display of nature sculpted rock formations that captivate the imagination. The swirling hues and intricate patterns within the deep canyon’s walls, serve as a testament to the Earth’s enduring beauty and power.

Nearby, Horseshoe Bend presents a striking contrast with its meandering Colorado River gracefully carved into the landscape over millennia. As the River flows through the canyon, its sinuous path creates a breathtaking vista. With no reservation required, visitors can simply marvel at the natural wonder of Horseshoe Bend.

Throughout your journey, The Arabella Hotel Sedona stands as a beacon of comfort and hospitality, offering a centrally located retreat that ensures a seamless blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether embarking on a four or five-day bucket list adventure or simply indulging in a weekend getaway, the memories created amidst Sedona’s artistic and natural wonders are sure to last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of exploration, and let Sedona’s magic ignite your wanderlust like never before.