When I moved to Los Angeles last year from Virginia, I decided that instead of shipping my car across the country, I wanted to take the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take a cross-country road trip and explore parts of the country I’ve never been to. I spent 3.5 weeks on the road crossing off places that were on my bucket list, as well as revisiting some of my favorite cities.
One place that has always been on my list? Sedona, Arizona. As an East Coast native, the mountains of the West never cease to impress me, but there is something magical about this destination.
Out of all of the resorts in Sedona, I knew I had to stay at the Enchantment Resort. They’re the sister property to the Tides Inn, which I adore, and I had a feeling they would go above and beyond to make my stay unforgettable.
Thinking about staying at the Enchantment Resort? Here’s my honest review of the property!
Enchantment Resort Sedona Review
Enchantment Resort Sedona: One With Nature
Let’s face it: Sedona is one of the most gorgeous places on earth, and you’re bound to get some sort of incredible view no matter where you stay. However, the Enchantment Resort is nestled in the dramatic red rocks of Boynton Canyon: a whopping 70-acres of natural terrain. No matter where you look, you’re bound to encounter a breathtaking view at Enchantment. Here, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the red rock formations that have a rich history.
Even if you’re not the most outdoorsy person, you’re still bound to have an incredible experience with nature at Enchantment Resort. Whether you’re enjoying a mindful walk amongst the red rocks, playing golf, stargazing with the resort’s astronomer, or enjoying some mountain biking, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
Enchantment Resort Sedona: Getting There & Getting Around
Sedona is a 2-hour drive from Phoenix and a 45-minute drive from Flagstaff. While there is a small airport in Sedona, you’re likely going to find the most cost-effective flights at PHX. The drive from Phoenix to Sedona is absolutely stunning, so its’s worth flying into PHX and renting a car to get you the rest of the way.
Enchantment Resort does have a complimentary shuttle for guests, so if you don’t end up bringing your car, you can still get around Sedona with ease. The resort also offers a complimentary 3-hour Volvo Cars excursion, where you can take either a Volvo S60 or XC90 to explore the area. However, it was ideal to be able to pick up and go explore nearby trails and go wine tasting in Jerome with a car whenever we wanted. Plus, the resort offers free parking, which is always a plus. Either way, car or no car, you’ll be able to get out and explore the area without any issue.
The resort is about a 20-minute drive from Uptown Sedona, so you’ll definitely have a quieter, more restorative experience at Enchantment. We enjoyed being able to unwind here, but if you’re looking for accommodations in a more lively part of town, this might not be the right resort for you.
Enchantment Resort Sedona: Rooms & Suites
Simply put: the rooms and suites at the Enchantment Resort are nothing short of magical.
Every room at the resort has a view of the red rocks of Boyton Canyon, whether you opt for the casitas or the suites. We stayed in the Casita Double Queen Guest Room and found it to be luxe and spacious yet cozy at the same time. The casitas and suites have been recently renovated, and each room has authentic Southwestern touches that add the perfect ambiance for your stay.
One of the many things we loved about our room? Our private deck overlooked the red rocks and the luxurious bathroom. Mornings in our casita were incredibly peaceful, and it was the perfect environment to relax and unwind.
Enchantment Resort: Dining
Enchantment Resort is home to a few incredible restaurants. And I had some of the best meals of my entire trip at Che Ah Chi. They’re open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with breakfast and lunch being a bit more casual and laid back and dinner being more formal. Here, you can enjoy modern American dishes with a Southwestern influence.
At dinner, I was impressed with Che Ah Chi’s wine list â try one of their Arizona wines, you will not be disappointed! While their dinner menu changes based on seasonal ingredients, I would try the bison if it’s available. You really can’t get that much more authentically Southwest than bison! Reservations are recommended.
Tii Gavo is the more casual dinner and lounge option. And it was named the #1 Restaurant in Sedona, AZ by Eater Las Vegas in 2019. Tii Gavo offers regionally inspired Southwestern dishes. You can either dine indoors or al fresco near the fire pit, and at both restaurants, you’ll enjoy stunning canyon views.
If you’re a margarita fan, the Prickly Pear Margarita is a must when you’re in Arizona. This cocktail is unique to the state because it gets its neon color from prickly pear fruits, which grow on the paddles of the prickly pear cactus. The fruit is boiled down to a syrup, then added to tequila and lime, and served over ice. It’s heaven in a glass!
Enchantment Resort: Amenities, Activities & Entertainment
Long story short: you won’t have the chance to be bored at Enchantment Resort. There are so many things to do at the resort â we only left the property once during our stay to go on a hike. Some of the many amenities, activities, and entertainment that the resort has are:
- Pool
- Mii amo Spa (closed until Fall 2022 for renovations)
- Private Wine Tastings
- Access to Members-Only Seven Canyons Golf Club, Shuttle & Dining
- Croquet & Bocce Ball
- Fitness Center
- Labyrinth Meditation Evening Walk
- Morning Celebration Meditation
- Pickleball Court
- Stargazing with Resort Astronomer
- Tennis Court
- 30-Minute Morning Stretch
- Canyon Walk
- 30-Minute Evening Candlelit Stretch
If you’re a dog lover, you’re also in luck: Enchantment Resort is pet-friendly. It’s also easy to take a day trip to the Grand Canyon from Enchantment Resort. So I would arrange a tour if that’s on your bucket list. This is only a small list of things you can do at the resort; you can view their complete list of activities here.
Enchantment Resort Sedona: Trail House
Enchantment Resort recently debuted its Trail House, an epicenter for outdoor adventure. Here, you can talk to local trail experts to figure out which trails are suitable for you, rent mountain bikes, and purchase any accessories or apparel to ensure that you have the most comfortable outdoor adventure possible.
As a novice hiker, I loved being able to pop in and learn what the best trails were for my experience level. Here, you learn about the terrain, elevation level, and difficulty of each trail. We opted to hike at the Doe Mountain Trail after speaking with our expert guide at the Trail House. It wasn’t overly difficult, but some rocks were a bit slippery in the morning. So make sure you have a pair of shoes with a good amount of grip!
Enchantment Resort Sedona: Final Thoughts
Hands down, Enchantment Resort was one of the top five resort experiences I’ve had in the U.S. It was one of the most beautiful properties I’ve ever visited. The staff was so friendly and knowledgeable, and the food and activities on-site were incredible. I plan on coming back one day â especially to check out the Mii amo Spa since it was closed when I visited.
Photos by Tom McGovern
I’ve always wanted to go to Sedona! This resort looks absolutely amazing.
This resort is on my list! đ Curious what other top resorts in the US that you recommend.
Yay!!! I also loved the Park Hyatt Aviara in Carlsbad, CA, and The Tides Inn in Irvington, VA!