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“People come to Sedona for soul experiences,” I overheard a vendor say inside the Center for the New Age spirituality shop on a sunny afternoon. She had just sold a man $300 worth of self-actualization supplies: two white-quartz sound bowls, one intricately engraved drum and several carefully selected crystals. As she rang her customer up, he began to cry. I eavesdropped with curious skepticism while he explained that he was overcome by the area’s mystical energy and felt a spiritual journey coming on. Could I have such an experience during my stay? Dubbed the metaphysical New Age capital, this majestic Arizona hot spot is known as a holistic healing destination. Surrounded by red-rock buttes, steep canyon walls and pine forests, it’s home to recovery treatment centres, yoga retreats and reiki-energy workshops—all drawing on the city as a bedrock for inner alignment.
Photography COURTESY OF MARIPOSA
Indeed, relaxation practically pulses through the atmosphere. Otherworldly crimson canyons are contrasted by the green agave plant and saguaro cacti, creating a naturally calming backdrop. Terracotta buildings are complemented by clay Spanish roofing. Tonal earthy homes are nestled between towering burnt-orange boulders. Satisfying pops of teal are peppered throughout the architectural landscape. (Even McDonald’s has eschewed its famous golden “M” in favour of turquoise arches.) The air is different, too, with an elevation so steep (1,325 metres above sea level) that you’re forced to breathe a little deeper. And if you’re in the market to really feel, certain landmarks—called “energy vortexes”—are known for providing visitors with powerful emotions. In the name of finding my higher self, I leaned into this wellness world. During my Sedona wellness retreat, I saw a tarot reader, who told me to release what doesn’t serve me and to watch for messages from the universe. At night, I entered a meditative state while staring up at the brightest stars I’d ever seen. (Head to Dry Creek Road for the ultimate celestial view far from city lights.) I even got emotional when I spotted Sedona’s most famous vortex, Cathedral Rock, on a hike through Red Rock State Park.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF L’AUBERGE DE SEDONA
Even if you’re skeptical about the New Age angle, Sedona’s trails are still worth the walk as some feature ruins and petroglyphs left by the Native American tribes who first lived in the area, like the Sinagua, Hopi, Navajo, Tonto Apaches and Yavapai-Apache peoples. At the end of my trip, I came home feeling a bit tired—energy work takes it out of you!—so I cancelled my plans for the next few days and let myself rest for the first time in a while. I’d call that a win for the soul.
Sedona Travel Guide
Where to stay
L’Auberge de Sedona
[instagram-oembed url=”https://www.instagram.com/p/DICEW_6vSA-/?hl=en&img_index=1″ /] Situated along the tranquil Oak Creek, this luxury resort—with stunning sunset views overlooking Red Rock country—promises a serene stay. On-site, guests can enjoy sound healing sessions, sunrise chakra yoga and tarot readings. Plus, it’s only a short walking distance from local shops, including the famous Center for the New Age boutique.
[cta url=”https://www.lauberge.com/#modal-popup” align=”center”]Learn More[/cta]
Where to eat
Mariposa
[instagram-oembed url=”https://www.instagram.com/p/DEDsWhHTNqQ/?hl=en” /] With a menu designed by chef Lisa Dahl, this breathtaking restaurant aims to enhance the magical energy of Sedona by submerging guests in escarpment views. Mariposa, which is “butterfly” in English, leans into metaphors of transformation by combining fine dining, architecture and nature. The Latin-inspired menu is equally bold, from tangy Chilean sea bass to fire-roasted poblano pepper. [cta url=”https://www.mariposasedona.com/” align=”center”]Learn More[/cta]
Where to shop
Tlaquepaque
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TLAQUEPAQUE
Modelled after a traditional Mexican village, this cobblestoned open-air market—which aptly translates to “best of everything”—has been hailed as a must-visit since the 1970s. Home to more than 50 boutiques and art galleries, it’s filled with amazing Sedona finds, from one-of-a-kind ceramics to handcrafted luxury jewellery. [cta url=”https://www.tlaq.com/” align=”center”]Learn More[/cta]
Where to caffeinate
Indian Gardens
[instagram-oembed url=”https://www.instagram.com/p/DH_j5zqv-7F/?hl=en” /] Nestled in Sedona’s Oak Creek Canyon, this historic general store is known for its baked goods, rich specialty coffee and local beer. The cottagey interior is embellished with rustic wood accents, while the outdoor seating area is bathed in a canopy of towering trees—making for a truly picturesque pit stop. [cta url=”https://www.indiangardens.com/” align=”center”]Learn More[/cta]
Where to unwind
Amara Spa
[instagram-oembed url=”https://www.instagram.com/p/DEYLrHJJRO-/” /] Tucked away on the serene property of the Amara resort, this soothing open-to-the-public spa is the perfect place for a day of full-body relaxation and desert detoxing. Here, you can indulge in treatments like holistic Ayurvedic-inspired massages and body scrubs formulated with Arizona prickly pear. [cta url=”https://www.amararesort.com/” align=”center”]Learn More[/cta] [content_module id=”1″] This article first appeared in FASHION’s April 2025 issue. Find out more here. Continue Reading
