3 New or Renovated Hotels in Sedona for Active Clients

Noted as one of the most spectacular red rock locations in the United States, Sedona, Ariz., feels like a mini-national park thanks to its vast array of hiking and mountain-biking trails winding amongst the stunning formations. A 90-minute drive from Phoenix, Sedona offers panoramic views and excursions from all points. With two state parks, four wilderness areas, more than 300 miles of public hiking and biking trails and nearly two million acres of national forest, there’s plenty to fill up an active client’s itinerary.

Uptown and West Sedona are the two major sections of town where visitors can discover accommodations, restaurants, shopping, art galleries and nearby trailheads that lead to red rock vistas. Over the past five years, the scenic paradise has morphed into more of an all-weather playground rather than a winter snowbird escape. The increased visitation has led to new property openings, while others are in the process of renovating and/or enhancing their wellness and excursion offerings.

Clients will be happy to learn that the Sedona Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau operates under Arizona’s first Sustainable Tourism Plan. The plan includes managing visitor impacts on public lands with private and nonprofit partners, as well as reduction of energy and water, plus initiatives to encourage visitor stewardship with the environment and local culture. 

Active clients are also spoiled when it comes to accommodations that cater to their desire for adventure. Following are three properties that are either new or recently renovated — and are located in the heart of the action.

Amara Resort and Spa (Uptown Sedona)

Set back from Main Street, along the banks of Oak Creek Canyon, this top Northern Arizona resort seems miles away from the busy beehive activity of Uptown Sedona. The 100-room property completed a multimillion-dollar renovation in 2021 including all guestrooms; public spaces; an infinity pool and hot tub; firepit gathering spaces; the signature restaurant, SaltRock Southwest Kitchen; and the award-winning Amara Spa.

Clients can check out one of the complimentary (for hotel guests only) Trek mountain bikes from the fitness center and then pedal a mile on bike paths to Snoopy Rock or explore off-road, moderate mountain-bike trails in the area, such as the Huckaby trailhead. Afterwards, guests can head back for a CBD-enhanced spa treatment or to lounge at the pool, facing Snoopy Rock and Cleopatra Red Rock Formation.

The Wilde Resort and Spa (West Sedona)

Recreation and rejuvenation — that’s what Sedona’s newest hotel property emphasizes to guests who stay at the 105-room boutique hotel and spa. Set at the base of Thunder Mountain, the location offers a breathtaking vista of the famous red rock formation. Clients attending meetings will be pleased to discover 5,640 square feet of combined indoor and outdoor meeting and event space, including a rooftop area to enjoy the scenery. 

Besides easy access to trailheads such as Sugar Loaf and Soldier's Pass for mountain biking and hiking, there is no shortage of recreational opportunities that the hotel can arrange for guests in the great outdoors, including sightseeing and wine tours, ATV rides, Jeep tours and Grand Canyon excursions.

Clients can rejuvenate after recreating with a spa treatment at the full service The Wilde Haven Spa, as well as enjoy some meditative solitude at the healing garden and a walking labyrinth. Evening activities include stargazing and storytelling around the fire pits or relaxing while enjoying the scenery from the property’s Rangeview Rooftop.

Enchantment Resort (Boynton Canyon)

Canyon walls surround the highly acclaimed luxury resort spread across 70 acres within Boynton Canyon. The serene natural beauty of the environment adds to the many wellness, fitness and outdoor programs for guests to explore while on property. 

In the past few years, the property has undergone a variety of renovations and new additions, including a contemporary southwestern redesign of the 218 casita-style guestrooms and suites. 

Legendary Mii amo Spa is under complete renovation and will reopen in spring 2022. Meanwhile, clients can still enjoy the Mii amo experience while staying at Enchantment’s Spa Suites. And the newest arrival on property is The Trail House, the resort’s adventure and activity center, assisting resort guests with outdoor hiking and biking adventures.  

As more clients discover the fun of outdoor activities, the opening of the Trail House could not come at a better time. There are 28 expert advisors who specialize in creating guided or self-guided hiking, mountain biking or an e-bike experience geared toward the ability level and interests of the client. Plus, to keep kids involved in the outdoor fun, a new “Little Shredders” mountain bike camp is offered twice a week for kids ages 8-15.