Verde Valley Wine Trail and spa recs

Question

We are going to Sedona in March for 5 days sans kids for our 20 yr anniversary. WE are avid hikers so we plan to do a lot of that. I was trying to plan a few afternoon activities. We like wine so thought about doing the Verde Valley Trail. How good is it? I have never actually heard of any wines from AZ before so I am a little leary.

Also we thought it would be nice to spend another afternoon at a spa and get some services. Any recommendations. We are staying in Oak Creek part of the time and either Uptown vs West sedona the other part of the trip.

TIA!

Answer

The Verde Valley Wine Trail is a delightful way to spend an afternoon in the Sedona area, especially if you’re interested in tasting something different. Arizona has been developing a small but growing wine industry, and the Verde Valley region is the heart of it, benefiting from high desert climate and a mix of soils that can produce interesting varietals. While the wines may not be internationally famous, many visitors find them surprisingly good, particularly the reds and some fruit-infused wines.

Highlights of the Verde Valley Wine Trail include:

Page Springs Cellars: One of the most popular wineries in the area, with a lovely tasting room, outdoor patio overlooking the vineyards, and excellent reds and whites.
Javelina Leap Vineyard: Offers a more intimate tasting experience and a mix of creative blends and classic varietals.
Vino di Sedona: A fun spot that often combines wine tasting with small plates or events, making it social and casual.
Other boutique wineries: There are a handful of smaller tasting rooms along the trail, each offering unique Arizona wines, often with scenic views and friendly staff willing to explain their process.

Visiting several wineries in one afternoon is doable, though three stops is generally comfortable. Most tasting rooms are open in the afternoon, and the drive through the Verde Valley is very scenic, with red rock vistas as a backdrop.

For a spa afternoon, Sedona has some excellent options, particularly for a relaxing anniversary treat. Recommendations include:

L’Auberge de Sedona Spa: Nestled along Oak Creek, this spa offers luxurious massages, facials, and treatments in a tranquil natural setting, perfect if you’re staying in Oak Creek.
Mii amo Spa: Located at Enchantment Resort in Boynton Canyon, it’s renowned for its holistic and Native American-inspired treatments, with a stunning environment for relaxation.
Sedona Rouge Spa: Convenient if staying Uptown or West Sedona, offers a variety of treatments including couples massages and body treatments, with a boutique hotel ambiance.
Amara Resort Spa: Smaller but excellent spa, located near Uptown Sedona, with attentive service and modern facilities.

Tips for planning:

Book your winery tastings and spa appointments in advance, as March can be busy with spring visitors.
Consider combining a wine trail visit with a scenic drive or short hike nearby for a full afternoon.
For accommodations, Oak Creek is closer to Mii amo and L’Auberge, while Uptown or West Sedona gives better access to dining, shops, and smaller spas.

Overall, combining hiking in the mornings with a wine or spa afternoon creates a relaxing and celebratory itinerary for your anniversary trip. The wines may surprise you, and the spa experiences are luxurious and memorable.

Verde Valley Wine Trail and spa recs

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