Sedona in Style: Why Arizona’s Luxe Desert Towns Are the New Group Travel Hotspots
Whether it’s a girls’ getaway, bachelor party, or family reunion, the thought of a group vacation is undeniably exciting.
What is not so exciting is agreeing on a destination.
Some group members want secluded retreats, while others want scintillating city metropolises.
To balance the best of both worlds, more and more groups are choosing Sedona and other upstate Arizona towns. With their scenic views and proximity to the Phoenix Metropolitan area, these luxe destinations offer the gamut of experiences and accommodations to meet the needs of any travel party. Keep reading as we explore why Arizona should be at the top of your list for an upcoming group getaway!
Stunning Vistas
Red rock formations.
This will come to the top of any Google search of Sedona.
To be fair, the red rocks alone are worth the trip. Some of the best places to take in these stunning formations include:
Chapel of the Holy Cross
Devil’s Bridge Trail
Red Rock Scenic Byway (Highway 179)
Slide Rock State Park
Airport Mesa
But Sedona offers far more than just unique geology.
Stately ponderosa pines. Yucca and cactus flowers. Succulent agave plants. Wildlife ranging from javelinas to bobcats, lizards to deer.
Simply put, a trip to Sedona offers a unique blend of desert and upland landscapes, making it the perfect destination for any group wanting a diverse topographical and ecological experience.
Perfect Weather
People think “hot” when they think of Arizona.
For many, this is an attraction. Retirees, remote professionals, and digital nomads flock to the Grand Canyon State as an escape from the unpredictable weather of colder climes.
With that said, Sedona and other upstate areas are not quite as sweltering as those closer to the border. It is more of a “high desert” climate. While some summer days can eclipse 100 at the height of afternoon, the high 80’s and low 90’s are more typical, with the morning and evening hours sitting in the idyllic 70’s. The months from November through April are generally perfect “sweater weather” for most of the day.
Endless Outdoor Activities
For the reasons previously mentioned, the chance for outdoors adventures are truly endless in Sedona. There is an option for any group’s speed. A round of golf at Oak Creek Country Club. A family hike through Boynton Canyon Trail. Nature watching on a kayak tour along the Verde River.
And this is just the tip of the iceberg for all that is available
Because there is simply so much to do, many of the best outdoor opportunities arise organically and are not a part of a predetermined itinerary. When this is the case, the area is uniquely positioned to help you be spontaneous. Whether it’s a mountain bike or golf club rental, shops such as Trail House at Enchantment Resort, Canyon Outfitters, and Thunder Mountain Bikes get you the gear you need at the drop of a hat.
World-Class Wellness Retreat
Breathtaking views. Warm weather. Endless outdoor opportunities.
It all adds up to being the perfect venue to get right in mind, body, and spirit.
Whether it’s a holistic “Rain Dance Massage” at the Amara Resort and Spa that features an eclectic blend of lavender, rosemary and sage oils or an outdoor yoga session at SpiritQuest Sedona Retreats, there is something for anyone wanting to feel their best during their Arizona getaway. Pro tip: Be sure to call ahead, as many spas will offer group discounts and customized treatment packages to accommodate your travel party.
Proximate to Valley Accommodations
Another beautiful aspect of Sedona is its proximity to The Valley. It is less than two hours from the Phoenix Metropolitan area. This makes Sedona an ideal day trip for groups building their Arizona itineraries around the Scottsdale tourism scene.
Scottsdale takes many of Sedona’s attractions—outdoor activities, family-friendly attractions, decadent dining—and kicks them up a notch. For a deeper dive into experiencing Phoenix and nearby cities without a car, check out this guide from Everyday Tourist on exploring Phoenix.
In addition to its world-renowned golf courses, the cultural melting pot of Old Town Scottsdale and breathtaking desert views of the McDowell-Sonoran Preserve are must-do’s for any Arizona traveler.
When booking an accommodation in the area, be sure to check out the selection of luxury vacation rentals. They offer a level of exclusivity and privacy not found in standard retail hotels. Vast dimensions afford each member of your group their own slice of tranquility. Resort-style backyards (spacious pools, lazy rivers, swim-up bars, etc.) are the ideal venue to relax in the Arizona sun. Luxury concierge partners offer chauffeured transportation, custom refrigerator stocking, and in-home spa sessions. When choosing a luxury rental, it will limit logistical stress and maximize every minute of your Arizona vacation to the fullest.
Explore Arizona’s Charming Desert Towns for Your Next Group Getaway
Luxe Arizona towns are the new hotspot for group travel. From iconic views to proximity to Phoenix conveniences, they are sure to create an unforgettable experience for the diverse tastes of your group. For more of the latest trends in lifestyle and travel, explore the content at Every Day Tourist for ideas and inspiration!