Sedona’s breathtaking red-rock scenery and perpetually
blue skies regularly secure the central Arizona city a top
spot on lists of
the most beautiful places in America.
Fittingly, Sedona has also earned a reputation as one of the best places in the United States to get beautified. No matter where you are in Sedona, chances are that a top-rated spa is little more than a stone’s throw away. For spa-goers looking to renew their bodies, minds and spirits, the hottest spa in Sedona at which to schedule a stay is Mii amo, a Native American-themed sanctuary tucked inside the family-friendly Enchantment Resort. Voted the No. 2 Destination Spa in the World by the readers of Travel + Leisure magazine in 2005, Mii amo keeps guests coming back for more with its winning combination of stunning scenery, unique activities and focus on one’s inner journey. (Mii amo is a Native American word meaning “journey.”)
AWARD-WINNING ARCHITECTURE Mii amo’s spectacular setting amid the rocks and trees of Boynton Canyon and Coconino National Forest has been the home of Native Americans for some 11,000 years. The culture and heritage of these native peoples is a central theme at the spa, from the architecture to the activities.
The award-winning design, created by renowned architecture firm Gluckman Maynor with the help of two feng shui experts, has been described as “Native American meets the Southwest with a touch of Asian zen.” The design team’s goal was to build a spa that seamlessly harmonized with the Sedona environment, a feat they accomplished by incorporating natural elements, including adobe, wood, stone, light and water.
The 24,000-square-foot, two-story main building is nestled into the natural shape of a red-rock canyon wall. At the heart of the design is the Crystal Grotto, a room used for meditation and small classes modeled after a kiva, or Native American place of ritual.
With views of spectacular Boynton Canyon, Mii amo’s Southwest-style guest quarters include 14 casitas, each with a fireplace and private courtyard or balcony, as well as two ultra-deluxe suites. An exhibition-style café serves up creative and figure-friendly fare, such as a mixed berry and yogurt “martini.” Two swimming pools, one indoor, one outdoor, are popular spots for those looking to either soak up the sun or retreat from its rays.
ACTIVITIES FOR EVERYONE Guests at Mii amo have a variety of activities with which to fill their days and evenings—from mainstream fitness classes to meditation sessions and guest lectures. Those looking to get fit have all the usual fitness endeavors to choose from, such as aqua aerobics, Pilates and tennis, as well as more adventurous excursions, such as mountain biking and hiking in the red rocks. Sedona is known as a new-age center, so more unconventional fitness activities also have a place on the schedule, including a “vortex walk” in a canyon described as a giant magnet of energy. Easy-on-the-body activities include a sunrise stretch and Gentle Energy Yoga.
However, what makes Mii amo stand out among spas is the wide range of activities for the mind and spirit. Many of these are Native American-inspired, including basketweaving, storytelling and flute meditation. Guests can also participate in a talking circle, explore creative photography, attend cooking demonstrations or gather to gaze at the stars. Special focus retreats are offered throughout the year, such as a five-day couple’s retreat in late October. Moms, take note: Mii amo’s location inside the family-oriented Enchantment Resort (www.enchantmentresort.com) means you can plan a family vacation but still schedule some me-time at the spa during the day.
HEALING SPA SERVICES
With more than 30 services on the menu—many of which are healing rituals passed down from the Navajo, Yavapai-Apache and Havasupai people—the spa is one
of the cornerstones of the Mii amo experience.
Signature services include the Crystal Bath, which incorporates essential oils, crystals, massage and Reiki work, and the Watsu Massage, which takes place in a private outdoor pool and combines stretching techniques and shiatsu. A hot cinnamon facial and blue corn body polish are a buffet for the senses, while the herbal detoxification wrap rejuvenates the body and may even leave you a few inches slimmer. While at the spa, guests can schedule a one-on-one appointment with one of Mii amo’s experienced personal trainers or wellness practitioners. Topics of discussion include Nutrition for Optimum Health, Weight in Balance and A Woman’s Journey (health advice for women). In keeping with Sedona’s new-age sensibilities, spa patrons have an opportunity to round out their service with a “spirit reading.” These include palm readings, astrology readings and tarot card
readings, all designed to provide insight into one’s present being and future opportunities. To learn more or to book a fall getaway, visit www.miiamo.com.
