I Took a Luxurious Retreat to Amara Resort and Spa in the Heart of Sedona

Located in the heart of Uptown Sedona on Oak Creek lies a resort where luxury and relaxation are paramount. The tranquil place is Amara Resort and Spa, and staying here has far exceeded my expectations. While I have stayed in a few places around Sedona since moving to Arizona in 2009, I never had quite as memorable an experience as I did here. If you're planning on a weekend getaway anytime soon, I highly recommend Amara Resort and Spa in Sedona. I'm not sure I can stay anywhere else now that I've spent time here.

Per journalistic integrity, we disclose that the writer of this piece was invited on this trip by Amara Resort and Spa, and expenses were covered. However, all opinions and thoughts expressed in this piece are their own.

Arriving at Amara

Driving through Uptown Sedona along 89A, my GPS had me turn into a narrow driveway just past a crystal shop, a common scene in town. I followed the road down a hill and had to bear right as I followed the sign to Amara Resort and Spa. While self-parking is an option, valet is included in the stay, so I had a friendly valet take my car after he greeted me warmly and asked if I needed help with my bags. I declined the help and entered as another valet held the door open for me. "Wow!" I said to myself as I stepped into the gorgeous lobby with modern furnishings and a restaurant. I turned to my left to find the check-in desks. So far, so good. I knew I was going to love (not just like) it here!

My Luxurious Accommodations

Upon entering my room on the second floor, I first noticed how spacious it was. I think I could do a couple of cartwheels in here! Everything is so classic and clean, there are plenty of lights, a balcony, a workspace, and a bar area with snacks and the cutest mini fridge filled with wine, beer, spirits, water, and soft drinks. I was impressed!

The bathroom was my favorite part of the room with lots of space, high-end toiletries, nice soft towels, and a glass-enclosed shower. And when I went to sleep that first night, I couldn't believe how comfortable the bed was. It was also helpful there were blackout curtains in the room.

Resort Amenities

In a separate building across the parking lot is where you'll find Amara Resort's spa as well as its 24-hour fitness center. I only got one workout in at the gym during my stay but it had everything I needed. There's a rack with free weights, a Bosu, a basket of yoga mats, a step, and cardio equipment including treadmills, an elliptical, and stationary bikes. That was all I needed.

I was lucky enough to enjoy a spa treatment at the award-winning Amara Spa while I was here. I arrived well in advance of my appointment time to fill out the intake form and enjoy the amenities. A staff member escorted me to the women's locker room where I was given a bathrobe and slippers to use. After I changed into the bathrobe, I went to the lounge area to wait for my treatment. I made an appointment for the Journey of the Senses massage, a tranquil experience with light-to-medium pressure, a choice of essential oils, and aromatherapy. I can't begin to tell you how relaxed I felt after the experience.

Exploring the Tranquil Grounds

Just outside Amara's back door is an outdoor patio for the resort's on-site restaurant as well as a lounge area with a firepit, a heated infinity pool, a hot tub, lounge chairs, and cabanas with views of the trees and red rocks.

Walk past the pool area and you can head down to Oak Creek where you'll find a few seats including a swing suspended from a tree branch. I spent some time relaxing here one afternoon and found great peace in doing so.

There's also a short trail that follows Oak Creek, and I hiked it as far as another hotel that's right next door to Amara.

Culinary Delights

I was lucky to dine at the renowned SaltRock Kitchen located right at Amara Resort. With its contemporary dining room and bar and a bright and airy feel just off the hotel's main lobby, it's a convenient place to have dinner for guests. However, it's also one of the best places to dine in Sedona. In fact, it's not just Amara guests who dine here but locals who are looking for a special night out on the town.

SaltRock's menu of expertly-crafted dishes of modern, Southwest fare made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, has made the restaurant a local favorite. Executive Chef Cord Chatham has certainly created something special here at Amara. In addition to the food, the hand-crafted cocktails and zero-proof mocktails are a must-try.

When dining at SaltRock, I urge you to order a couple of appetizers. I think my table tried just about every appetizer on the menu! My favorite was the guacamole—I don't think I had ever had such fresh and flavorful guac before in my life. The Papas, smashed and fried fingerling potatoes, was another favorite.

For a main course, I opted for the crispy cauliflower street tacos. Not only do I have a weakness for tacos, but they are gluten-free, perfect for someone like me who is supposed to follow a restricted diet. Others at my table ordered the Caldo de Mariscos, a medley of seafood in a shellfish broth with a side of Noble bread and items like the Scottish salmon, Branzino al Pastor, and the Achiote Smoked Half-Chicken. Each of us enjoyed our respective dishes.

When dining at SaltRock, you must try something (or everything) from the dessert menu. We tried every dessert on the menu, including the churros and ice cream, a cinnamon bueñelo, and a warm fig and brie empanada, all of which were amazing! And, honestly, everything looked like a work of art on a plate as well.

Breakfast at SaltRock Kitchen is also a must. On the menu are coffees (I recommend the cappuccino, which was the best I had since one of my last trips to Europe), fresh-pressed juices, smoothies, and a variety of savory fare like smothered breakfast burritos, Chilaquiles Rojo, and avocado toast. But if you want to go all out, I recommend the Tres Leches French Toast (pictured below). With thick slices of brioche, cinnamon bueñelos, cinnamon whipped cream, caramel, and fresh berries, it's the very definition of decadent.

Final Thoughts

After spending three nights at Amara Resort and Spa in Sedona, would I stay here again? Absolutely! The setting, the staff, the accommodations, the restaurant, and the amenities made my Arizona staycation a memorable one. And if you're planning your own trip to Sedona, you'll love staying at Amara as much as I did. This resort is also dog-friendly so feel free to bring your pup!