While getting to Sedona might require more planning than most U.S. destinations, at least the journey here is an unforgettable one. Like most Americans, you’ll probably fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, then hop into a car and cruise down Arizona State Route 89A for two hours.
On this iconic highway, you’ll notice your surroundings morph from an arid desert of craggy hills and spiky saguaro cactus to an expansive landscape marked by majestic red rock formations. These towering, rust-colored buttes, along with the region’s vortexes, are purported to encourage healing and spiritual awakening. Above all else, Sedona is undeniably beautiful— a rare place that manages to energize and quiet the soul at once.
Though accommodations abound, from rustic inns to sprawling resorts, one family-owned hotel situated right on Arizona 89A—yup, the address is 900 W State Rte 89A—offers discerning travelers an experience unlike anything else in town that combines intimacy, luxury, and of course, stirring scenery.
Opened last year, Ambiente Sedona—the first hotel by Sedona-based developer Two Sister Bosses led by Jennifer May and Colleen TeBrake—distinguishes itself as one of the world’s few landscape hotels. A growing trend in the world of hospitality, landscape hotels—other examples include Piaule Catskill here in the States and New Zealand’s The Lindis—are design-driven and sustainability-focused hideaways that allow guests to immerse themselves in nature.
At Ambiente, the magic happens by way of 40 576-square-foot Atriums that seamlessly blend into their natural environment. These cubical, freestanding, and elevated metal structures spread out across three acres swap out standard guest rooms with studio-like spaces outfitted with platform beds, cozy sitting nooks, striking black tubs, and kitchenettes stocked with complementary sips and snacks. Every Atrium also sports a dramatic floor-to-ceiling glass wall so you can marvel at the sweeping views from the comfort of bed, and private rooftop decks, which are ideal for an evening stargazing session. (Fun fact: Sedona is one of only eight desginated International Dark Sky Communities in the world.)
Despite its location on a busy highway, Ambiente is whisper-quiet—so much so that the only sounds you’ll likely hear will come from birds. (Sedona also happens to be a top birdwatching destination.) Adding to the tranquil atmosphere is Ambiente’s adults-only policy and the fact that it tops out at 80 guests.
While hiking is the most popular ways to pass time in Sedona, Ambiente makes it easy if you prefer to stay put. Like the rest of the hotel, the property’s spa Velvet feels like a secluded hideway with three treatment rooms cloaked in deep earth tones, soft lighting, and a hushed mood. Despite its smaller size, Velvet’s treatment menu is extensive, from AcuGlow™ Facials coupling traditional gua sha with the latest LED-light therapy to gentle Babymoon Massages for the expecting mother. Be sure to add on a session at Velvet’s Dark Sky Lounge that cocoons you with soothing vibrations and an ambient soundtrack.
When chef David Duncan took over the reins at Ambiente’s signature restaurant Forty1 in February, the timing also coincided with it opening to the public for the first time. Now, everyone can tuck into Duncan’s thoughtfgul menu showcasing Verde Valley’s diverse bounty. Want to try something unique and hyper-local? Then order the Elk Backstrap. This lesser-known cut of meat isn’t just incredibly tender and flavorful thanks to a sweet-savory Korean Bulgogi marinade, it’s also considered a far more sustainable choice compared to beef—aligning perfectly with Ambiente’s mission to respect the environment as much as possible.