GARLAND'S OAK CREEK LODGE, Sedona, AZ. - Review - hotel review

Sunset, Feb, 2001 by Nora Burba Trulsson

* Despite the allure of the town, many guests at Garland's Oak Creek Lodge never set foot off the property during their entire stay. It's not that Garland's offers a compelling list of activities. Rather, guests come simply to soak up magnificent views, enjoy great food, and do ... nothing.

The lodge, an old homestead that the Garland family has been running as an inn since 1972, sits along the banks of Oak Creek. Towering rust-hued canyon walls provide a backdrop for the property's wood-and-stone cabins, which dot a manicured lawn. Oaks and sycamores, interspersed with fruit trees, provide shade and color.

The cabins are simple, decorated with handmade furniture, quilts, and braided rugs. Balconies and patios invite lingering; chaises scattered strategically on the grass suggest naps.

An outdoor cocktail hour allows guests to catch the last rays of light in the canyon, then it's into the main building to sample an ever-changing menu--herb-crusted salmon, perhaps, or rack of lamb, followed by a rich dessert--much of it made with ingredients from the lodge's orchard and organic garden. Though there's no lunch served, breakfast--such as local trout and corn fritters--can get you through to teatime.

The lodge does have a clay tennis court and a croquet lawn, plus access to nearby hiking trails and a swimming hole, but, admits owner Mary Garland, "the big sports here are reading, eating, and going to bed early." And therein lies Garland's appeal.

ESSENTIALS: Closed Dec-Mar; closed Sunday nights. Sixteen cabins, 12 with fireplaces. From $168, also including tea and dinner. 8067 N. State 89A; (520) 282-3343 or www.garlandslodge.com. Dining room: dinner.