An Introduction to the Red Rock Haven: Sedona
After soaking in the southwestern charm of Albuquerque and Santa Fe (details to be revealed in another blog, so stay tuned!), we aimed our trusty BMW toward the mesmerizing landscapes of Arizona. Next up on our epic family adventure: a four-night stay in the spiritual and scenic paradise of Sedona, a prelude to our exploration of both rims of the Grand Canyon. But first, let’s delve a bit into the history that makes Sedona such a unique place.
Sedona was named after Sedona Arabelle Miller Schnebly, the wife of the city’s first postmaster. A small settlement with Native American origins, the city has grown to become a hub of spiritual seekers, artists, and nature lovers. Sedona’s red rock formations aren’t just jaw-droppingly beautiful; they’re also said to be home to spiritual vortexes, which draw visitors in search of healing and meditation.
The Journey: From Albuquerque to Sedona
The drive from Albuquerque to Sedona was like a cinematic experience, complete with a backdrop of ever-changing landscapes that seemed painted by the hand of an ambitious artist. From arid plains to small forested pockets, the journey was nothing less than a visual feast. And Zak? Well, he played his favorite game, “Slumber Peekaboo,” dozing off and then waking up intermittently in the back of our Beemer, particularly when a new captivating view rolled into sight.
Oak Creek Vista: The Grand Entrance to Sedona
As we neared Sedona, the road led us through Oak Creek Vista—an area so stunningly scenic that it seemed as though the earth itself was showing off. I cannot overemphasize the breathtaking panorama that unfolded before our eyes: a playground of red rocks, craggy formations framed by cerulean skies. The creek below meandered like a ribbon through the landscape, and for a moment, all seemed right with the world. If Mother Nature had a VIP lounge, this would be it.
Our Home Away from Home: Hilton Grand Vacation Resort
We finally arrived at our accommodation, a Hilton Grand Vacation resort that promised—and delivered—a fantastic base for exploring the region. It’s the kind of place where stepping outside is an invitation to admire the colossal red rocks and verdant landscapes. The resort melded so well with the surrounding beauty that you’d think it was planned by Mother Nature herself. We quickly settled in, knowing that the upcoming days would be packed with adventures, soul-soothing vistas, and naturally, more of Zak’s backseat napping escapades.
So there you have it—the introduction to our Sedona chapter. Keep your eyes peeled for the next blog where we’ll talk about our unforgettable excursions to the Grand Canyon and the hidden gems of Sedona itself. And remember, we’ve got more tales of New Mexico in the pipeline! Stay tuned, adventurers.
All Around The World 