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A VERDE VALLEY VACAY A
summer escape to Verde Valley is one of Arizona’s best kept secrets. With tourists opting to visit during other seasons, the summer is prime time to explore Sedona, Oak Creek and even Cottonwood – and at a great rate.
Stay – L’Auberge de Sedona Lauded as one of the most luxurious boutique hotels, L’Auberge de Sedona – nestled on the banks of Oak Creek – is an intimate retreat offering both traditional lodge rooms and extravagant (and quite romantic!) cottages, each of which includes an outdoor, open-roof cedar shower and a cozy fire place. Of particular note on property are the two dining options – Cress on Oak Creek and Etch Kitchen & Bar – both designed to infuse the incredible creekside location into the culinary experience. Etch offers a more casual option while Cress takes guests on an epicurean adventure, with three- and four-course tasting menus boasting Food Network-worthy delicacies.
Seek cooler temperatures in these northern Arizona hot spots BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ PHOTOS COURTESY OF PHILIPPE DEJEAN AND LA BELLE SOCIAL MEDIA
Staying true to its Sedona roots, the hotel offers a variety of wellness activities, including creekside yoga, forest bathing, hiking, expert-led stargazing and even a chance to mix one’s own signature scent at L’Apothecary Spa. This summer, L’Auberge is offering the Cooler by Nature package, which includes a two-night stay, a $300 credit to L’Apothecary Spa, a $200 credit to Cress and a $150 credit for a spa activity, including the new star bathing option for guests to meditate and admire the quiet, starlit sky. For July through August, rates start at $1,263 for two nights. www.lauberge.com.
Play – Sedona Adventure Company What’s a trip to Verde Valley without actually visiting the Verde River? Sedona SO SCOTTSDALE! |
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Adventure Company offers kayak adventures – including one that ends at Alcanterra Winery for a tasting and vineyard tour – ranging from two to three hours, plus shuttle transportation. Guided trips are offered in both the morning and afternoons, and absolutely no experience is necessary. And though most tours leave from Sedona and take guests to the Verde River near Page Springs, there is also a tour available from Cottonwood, which takes guests along the Clarkdale portion of the river, offering just enough current for an easy and smooth ride. Both trips feature canyons, verdant forests, brightly colored wildflowers and a multitude of wildlife. www.sedonaadventuretours.com.
Sip – Old Town Cottonwood Over the past decade, the Verde Valley has seen the birth of nearly two dozen vineyards and tasting rooms nestled among the communities of Cottonwood, Jerome, Clarkdale, Camp Verde and Sedona. Visiting Old Town Cottonwood is one of the most convenient (and safest, since everything is within walking distance) ways to sample the best the region has to offer. Along Main Street, you’ll find tasting rooms for Arizona Stronghold Vineyards, Pillsbury Wine Company, Burning Tree Cellars, Merkin Vineyards Osteria, Small Batch Wine & Spirits, and Fire Mountain Wines. Tastings range from $10 to $15, and some offer chocolates, games and other treats to enjoy during the visit. www.oldtown.org.