Arizona: The Red Rocks of Sedona

Millions drive Route 66 every year, the world-famous road of the American Dream ... most turn north in Arizona to make a detour to the Grand Canyon.

However, those who head south discover an equally spectacular landscape - and one of America's most beautiful cities: Sedona.

A few miles past Flagstaff it suddenly becomes narrow and winding. Through dense forests, the road plunges over 700 meters down to Sedona. For the driver, it's time to focus even more on the road and try not to be distracted by the 'Wows' and 'Ahs' coming from the passenger or back seat with every curve. But after 45 minutes, even the driver can enjoy the magnificent view.

We have arrived in the 'Red Rock Country', the 'Land of the Red Rocks': Nestled between majestic sandstone monoliths is Sedona, voted the most beautiful place in the USA by the US magazine 'Weekend'. But the reason is not only the breathtaking scenery that surrounds this town of 12,000 people. There's something else that draws you in as soon as you step out of the car. Something that's hard to put into words, something that delights not only the eyes but also the soul: Sedona is one of those places that seems to be filled with a strange magic of silence. Even or despite the tourists who push past the souvenir shops on the main street.

One of the first artists to be fascinated by this magical place was the German painter and sculptor Max Ernst, who settled here with his wife Dorothea in 1950 for three years. Besides the silence, he particularly appreciated the pleasant climate, the mild dry air, and the unique light that blankets this place. Back then, Sedona was still a sleepy little town.

Awakened from its slumber by followers of the 'New Age' movement who came here in the 1980s. They still believe that the rocks, cliffs, and streams of Sedona emit electromagnetic energy. Following them, more and more artists, seekers, and other spiritual people moved here, giving the town a charm rarely found in the USA. Today, more than 500 painters and artisans as well as 80 galleries are based here, and almost every street corner has a little shop offering spiritual and metaphysical products and services.

Most tourists are drawn to nature, to Oak Creek Canyon for example or with a four-wheel-drive Jeep into the bizarre rock formations as high as 1500 meters, which have melodic names like 'Bell Rock', 'Coffeepot Rock', or 'Rabbit Ears'. The best way to explore the surroundings is by hiking or biking in the surrounding Coconino National Forest. However, you'll need a 'Red Rock Pass', which costs $5/day and can be purchased at most hotels and visitor centers.

Even those who have grown tired of burgers on their journey through the States will breathe a sigh of relief in Sedona. The restaurants and pubs offer first-class Italian, French, Asian, and Mexican cuisine. One must-try is the spicy 'Cactus Fries' as an alternative to classic French fries.

Speaking of 'fries': On 2380 W State Route 89a is the only McDonald's in Sedona. Probably photographed as often as the red rocks. It was the only McDonald's in the world whose logo is not yellow on a red background. Instead, a pale green 'M' adorns the facade of the fast-food restaurant. Nothing should distract the viewer's eye as the glowing red rocks fade away in the night, revealing an extravagantly magnificent starry sky.

Travel Reporter