Sage & Red Stone

Sedona's red rock formations frame every view at this West Sedona retreat – and nowhere more memorably than from the rooftop terrace, where the landscape feels close enough to touch. The dual-home layout gives groups the best of both worlds: a main residence and a separate guesthouse with its own lounge and kitchen, so everyone can gather or disappear as the mood takes them. As evening arrives, the covered outdoor deck comes into its own – fire pit lit, timber ceiling overhead, and the desert sky doing the rest. The Golden Goose American Grill is a four-minute drive when you need a night off cooking.

Home truths:
* The accommodation here is set across the main house, which has three bedrooms, and a separate, two-bedroom guest house. The guest house also has its own kitchen.
* Air conditioning cannot be set below 72°F and heating cannot be set above 78°F, so the range is narrower than you might be used to – worth bearing in mind if you run hot or cold.
* The living room fireplace is decorative only – no wood burning is permitted, so it won't be a source of warmth on cooler evenings.
* The starter pack of household essentials covers your first day or two, but you'll need to stock up on supplies for longer stays – the nearest shops are a short drive away.
* You'll need a car to make the most of your stay. The driveway fits three or more vehicles, so there's plenty of room if your group is arriving separately.