Now onto Sedona. This has a very different vibe from sprawling Phoenix. About two hours north of the city sits Sedona in all of it's glory. Nestled between copper-toned mountains and valleys is a sanctuary of beauty, relaxation, and spirituality. Known for its vortexes, or energy concentrations, Sedona has been an epicenter for travelers looking to unwind, hike the rugged terrain, and get in tune with ones self. I immediately fell in love with the colors and energy of Sedona and can't wait to return. 

Here is how we did Sedona.

Stay
We splurged and stayed at one of my favorite resorts L'Auberge de Sedona. The heart and soul of this resort is the babbling (or gushing) creek. Guests are treated to private cottages, featuring fireplaces and outdoor cedar showers. If you're creekside, your shower window over looks the mighty creek and dramatic mountainside. The resort offers daily duck feedings, yoga, and other activities such as meditation and star gazing. The atmosphere and service is warm and personable without the snobbiness of other resorts. In an essence, it's the perfect getaway to be alongside nature and with decadence (my kind of "camping").

Food
Mariposa - an upscale Latin grill restaurant that feels like one is up in the mountains.  Ask to be seated on the outdoor patio,  where you will be surrounded by an inky black sky and alluring fire pits. We liked the spicy margarita and tender steak with chimmichurri sauce.  The scenery and food flavors makes you feel like you're on a desert vacation. 

The Hudson - features stunning views of the mountain-sky line and contemporary modern food. We had a juicy prime rib slider, South Western Caesar salad, seared swordfish with crispy calamari, and a chicken scaloppini with a light butter cream sauce, artichokes, and fresh arugula. Everything we tasted was delicious.

Sedona Hideaway House - we had a nice lunch on the back patio, which is elevated so you feel like you're dining in a tree house. Beautiful views of the mountain, paired with homemade Italian-inspired cuisine. 

Sites
Hike, hike, and hike. We only did two during our stay. We first visited Cathedral Rock, one of the most photographed sites of Sedona in Crescent Moon park and then Airplane Mesa. Both boasted vortex sites and had pretty views of the area.

Jerome - this town is nicked named the largest Ghost Town in America. Known for it's copper mining abundance, Jerome was a true wild west city during it's heyday in the 1800s. After WWII, the town became a ghost town. In the last few decades, artists and store owners have drifted back. We had fun meandering up this hillside village and sipping wine at Caduceus vineyards (owned by the lead singer of Tool). Turns out, he makes some mean wines.

The Grand Canyon - a few hours north of Sedona, and definitely, definitely worth the day trip. The views (even overcast and rain) were astounding. Get ready to feel minuscule at this awesome canyon park.