Spring break trip w kids (two 12 yo's); from the NE.
Outstanding resort with unique natural setting (wooded, shallow valley with creek running through) right off main street in uptown Sedona, steps to main restaurants and shops, yet quiet, secluded feeling. Getting from the creek side to uptown is approx 4-5 min walk, also a house car available.
Staff: very friendly, knowledgeable; young concierge from Boston was a standout - thoughtful, analytical, a pleasure to speak with.
Many room types:
-hotel rooms at the top of the valley, off main street, best views of red rocks, most convenient to uptown shopping/dining;
5 min down the steps:
-the lodge (where we stayed): in the valley, larger rooms w french doors, small balconies, views of woods, gym in building; small walk in closets
-cabins - dotted around the wooded valley, some creek side; 1-2 bedrooms w sitting rooms, 1-2 baths, kitchenettes
-5 bedroom house, creek side
Spa: in the valley with private pool
1/2 way down the valley is the main pool w bar, sun bathing deck, views of red rocks
Cress: creek side fine dining
89 Agave: owned by the hotel; excellent Mexican restaurant on main street, next to the hotel style rooms; can charge to your room
House car has free rides to within a few miles of the hotel; covers most restaurants, 6+ hikes.
parking: $35+ tax per night; prompt, friendly valet
PRO TIP: use Am Ex Fine Hotels & Resorts for $100 credit (food, spa, merch) and $45 per adult per day breakfast credit at Cress (many excellent options). Early noon check in, 4 pm late checkout
Hotel is part of Hilton Honors, but the included Hilton buffet is limited, Cress/AmEx much, much better
PROS: location, location, location; natural, wooded setting/creek, beautiful grounds; quick walk to uptown shopping/dining; fantastic staff - friendly, knowledgeable.
CONS: none, really; Cress fine dining dinner was limited for our tastes, but place was packed and waiters were top notch!
vs THE ENCHANTMENT RESORT: had lunch here while hiking one day; we far preferred L'Auberge - Enchantment seemed pricier, stuffy, more formal and was 30 minutes out of town - nothing close by (isolated to resort for food) and would have to plan going into town w driver/car/parking, unlike L'Auberge. The vibe at L'Auberge was more our speed - laid back luxury, unbeatable and unique location/decor/grounds.