A Touch of Provence in Sedona

Travelers need not traverse the Atlantic for a dose of French country inn flavor—the intimate cottages of L'Auberge de Sedona, nestled along the banks of the rushing Oak Creek amid lush grass and leafy trees, bring a romantic French touch to Arizona's red rock country.

L'Auberge was developed by a Frenchman to evoke the French inns and restaurants he had known as a boy in his native Provence. Janot "Jean" Rocci bought a strip of land along the banks of the Oak Creek in the late 1970s and in 1982 began to develop the hotel, which, despite its backdrop of towering magenta cliffs, transports visitors to a rustic Gallic country setting. It's the botanical gardens, the scent of lilacs blooming in the spring, the summer trees brimming with fruits and the gold and crimson colors that announce autumn. It's also chef Mark May's award-winning fine French cuisine and the auberge's extensive wine list. The juxtaposition of French rusticity and the majestic beauty of Sedona's famed, sun drenched rocks make for a magical experience.

The 11-acre resort recently received a new look and redesign of its 33 creek or gardenside cottages. The new ambience blends classic and traditional design influences of the American and French southwest in hues of soft browns and blues. The cottages have been fitted with new lighting, wood plank floors, new furniture and imported Pierre Deux fabrics, new exposed beam ceilings, new bathrooms and fireplaces. The European-style Lodge's 19 guest rooms and two junior suites will also be refurbished.

Visitors enjoy the natural beauty and mild climate via golf, tennis, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, swimming, or lounging by the pool and Jacuzzi, sipping an afternoon cocktail and absorbing the view. Worth a visit are also the Indian ruins built by the Sinagua Indians during the 13th century. Montezuma's Castle and Montezuma's Well and Tuzigoot are a short driving distance from L'Auberge. Guests not in the mood for the great outdoors enjoy a therapeutic massage or learn the basics of French cooking taught in a hands-on class with chef May and pastry chef Trevor Tucker.

Cottages with one bedroom are $355-$425 per night; cottage with two bedrooms are $395-$475 per night. Rates do not include taxes and gratuities.