Seeing "Red" at the Sedona Rouge

Luxury Hotels & Spas: The Sedona Rouge Hotel & Spa welcomes guests year round to come and enjoy the area's wonderful warm climate, breathtaking scenery, and eclectic artisan community. Sedona, Ariz., is a wonderful city to visit and explore, as its hospitable surroundings make it an ideal respite to escape the everyday routine. The weather and the unique red-rock formations create a soothing environment that many visitors find both relaxing and replenishing. This 19-square-mile haven is a therapeutic soul patch that is as charming as it is inspiring.

The Sedona Rouge Hotel & Spa is located in West Sedona, which is viewed as the "real town" by the locals. The hotel has 77 luxurious guestrooms with eight different layouts. The Premier Red Rock rooms have a fireplace, vaulted ceilings, and a balcony that faces the Red Rocks. There also are six Spa Guest Rooms and a Spa Guest Suite that feature in-room soaking tubs and king-size beds. Complimentary wireless Internet access is available to all guests.

The Spa at Sedona rocks with various massage-therapy techniques and a staff of very knowledgeable therapists. Helping guests achieve a sense of oneness with their mind and body is the "soul" goal of the spa's crew. The staff extrapolates from the methodology of Ayurvedic techniques. Prior to starting a session, a staffer interviews a guest to determine specific desires and expectations before recommending a treatment plan. Most sessions are for 60 to 90 minutes. Therapists are state certified and estheticians have an average of 10 years of experience. Private massage sessions for couples also are available. There are several spa vacation package plans.

While many travelers come in search of spiritual enlightenment or a cathartic experience, there are tours of Sedona that tap into the mystical aura of the land's local lore and history. Other local activities include a nearby wildlife park, Red Rock jeep tours, and high-flying balloon rides. There are numerous art galleries with works of many emerging artists. The 18-hole golf course at the nearby Sedona Golf Resort is both scenic and challenging. Golf Digest rated it as one of the Best Places to Play in 2007.

The hotel's restaurant, aptly named Reds, is a favorite of Sedona locals with a cuisine that is definitely Americana with flavorful international influences. Reds also boasts of a most impressive wine list. Live music is performed by acclaimed local and national entertainers at Reds Bar.

Sedona is approximately 120 miles from Phoenix and 230 miles from Tucson. Depending upon traffic, the Grand Canyon is just a two-hour drive from the hotel. The Sedona Rouge Hotel & Spa is a great place to have a grand time year round.

Written by the staff writers of JustLuxé.com