Romantic weekend getaways in Arizona conjure up images of hot air ballooning over the Grand Canyon, indulging in spa treatments with views of the Sonoran Desert, and riding horses into the sunset. Whether looking for scenic vistas, luxury desert ranches, challenging bike paths or hip art galleries and cafes, couples can find it in Arizona.
Known as \"Red Rock Country,\" Sedona is one of Arizona's most romantic getaways. The stunning geological features are the main attraction, although Sedona offers myriad shopping, entertainment and dining options as well. Couples can see the sights from above by taking a private plane ride, chartering a helicopter or going for a ride in a hot air balloon. Other options include horseback riding through canyons, relaxing at a spa, or using Sedona as a base for day trips to Lake Powell and the Grand Canyon.
There are dozens of romantic bed and breakfasts in Sedona, many of which couples can learn more about by visiting the website of Premier Bed and Breakfasts of Sedona (bbsedona.net). One bed and breakfast that has stood out from the crowd, winning a Traveler's Choice Award from Trip Advisor in both 2009 and 2010, is Boots and Saddles. Each of the six unique rooms has a jetted tub, red rock views, two-person walk-in shower and a fireplace.
Boots and Saddles Bed and Breakfast
2900 Hopi Drive
Sedona, AZ 86336
928-282-1944
oldwestbb.com?
For a romantic weekend getaway in southern Arizona, Tucson offers urban chic surrounding by the great outdoors. One day couples can explore colonial churches, check out modern museums and dine at world-class restaurants, and the next day they can head out to one of the five mountain ranges surrounding the city. Outdoor enthusiasts can find plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking and rock climbing around Tucson. They can also explore caves, walk the historic Anza Trail or spend an afternoon on a scenic golf course.
La Zarzuela, a private villa in the Tucson Mountains, is one particularly romantic place to stay. Accommodation is a private casita and includes gourmet southwestern-style breakfast. The pool and hot tub are literally in the desert; guests could probably reach out and touch a cactus. La Zarzuela's two-night Desert Experience package includes massages at the on-site spa.
La Zarzuela
455 North Camino De Oeste
Tucson, AZ 85745
520-884-4824
zarzuela-az.com?
Set in the middle of the Sonoran Desert, Cave Creek is a place for outdoor loving couples as well as those seeking art and culture on their weekend getaway. Visitors can enjoy a candlelight dinner with desert views at one of more than 30 local restaurants, peruse boutique shops or spend an afternoon meandering through art galleries. If visiting in mid-July, couples may be able to catch Cave Creek's annual film festival. Visitors can also tour old mines, go country line dancing together or take a horseback ride through the surrounding the desert. Opportunities for hiking and biking abound.
If looking for a romantic place to stay, sweethearts should try Full Circle Ranch. Located outside the town in a quiet, scenic area of desert, this bed and breakfast has southwestern-style guest rooms and private casitas. Casitas include fireplace, wet bar and fridge so guests can chill their favorite wine. There's a spa on-site, as well as a pool with waterfalls. The ranch has stable facilities so visitors can even bring their own horse.
Full Circle Ranch
40205 North 26th Street
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
623-465-7570
fullcircleranch.com?
