Heaven on Earth: The Residences at Seven Canyons, Sedona ~ My hotel life

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Heaven on Earth: The Residences at Seven Canyons, Sedona

Somewhere between heaven and earth, at 4,500 feet elevation is Sedona, Arizona. A few miles northwest of Sedona's strip mall city center on highway 89A, lies the residential and golf oasis called Seven Canyons. I have to admit that Sedona itself was a disappointment from the standpoint of urban planning. Take away the breathtaking backdrop of the magnificent Red Rocks perched above the city, you have a typical suburban main street of commercial driveways and parking lots. I'm sure there are some charming retail stores tucked away beyond the rows of parked cars, but it is just so difficult to get past through the asphalt jungle which defines this city.

So to say that Seven Canyons is an oasis is not exactly an exaggeration. This small residential community of about 31 homes is simply magnificent. The developers did not spare any detail; from the stone masonry, to the wood craftsmanship, to the exterior dining and grill area, to the expansive bathrooms and outdoor showers, down to the Acca Kappa bathroom amenities and illy Francis Francis espresso maker. Need I say more. And yes, the thread count on the sheets that's too ridiculous to even mention.

Very good friends of ours invited us, along with three other guests, for a long weekend retreat to help celebrate their milestone birthdays. It was real treat even for this globetrotting hotelier. I've stayed in too many villas where opulence overshadows comfort. Not here. We felt so at home even though our abode in Michigan pales in comparison. Perhaps, it isn't exactly just the design of the place that makes it cozy, but the company you're with. And on this weekend, the company of close friends and wonderful new acquaintances made all the difference. To those who were with us in Seven Canyons, thank you.