Last Updated on August 27, 2024
Sedona, AZ can be so strikingly beautiful in the pale light of morning or the vibrant hues of the afternoon sun that you may find yourself suddenly holding your breath, as if its beauty may disappear should you dare breathe.
The dramatic rock formations with their brilliant red and orange hues create spectacular landscapes that form mile after mile of picturesque panoramas. Sculpted over the millennia into dramatic cliffs with soaring rock chimneys and precipices molded of robust boulders, its charismatic allure draws visitors, artists, nature enthusiasts, photographers and hikers from around the world.
When your destination is this awe-inspiring, the only thing that can possibly make it any better is finding the perfectly curated boutique inn reflecting the stunning artistic soul of its southwest location.
A Sunset Chateau in Sedona
A Sunset Chateau, situated on a tranquil hilltop with incomparable views of some of the most stunning red rock panoramas in Sedona, is a 25-unit all-suite inn.
Its elevated location offers views of iconic red rock formations including prominent landmarks like Coffee Pot Rock, Thunder Mountain and Bear Mountain. Be forewarned, your first view of this panorama, warmed by the golden glow of the afternoon sun, may momentarily wobble your knees.
How do you hide a 25-room inn in plain sight?
You create an oasis!
I actually drove past it the first time.
The grounds have been thoughtfully designed behind a walled courtyard landscaped with tall pines, mesquites, and Italian Cypress. Vibrant, flowering bougainvillea, oleander, and a lush assortment of vines, shrubs, and native plants provide not only natural beauty, but peaceful privacy.
As my husband and I approached the entrance, I could see inside the courtyard where I caught my first glimpse of an old-world hacienda painted in traditional terracotta tones. It was further adorned with doors and raised-panel shutters boldly enhanced in hues of cobalt and French Ultramarine blue. A hand-painted mural of lavender hydrangeas climbed in two-dimensional relief up the side of the office, weaving its way over a blue shutter.
Stepping inside the courtyard I found it replete with a Kiva fireplace enhanced with geometric southwest designs and a large adjoining patio where I could immediately visualize sitting with wine to catch the sunset. Now I know how the Inn got its name!
Next, I walked into a small lobby and stopped in my tracks to admire a wall mural repeating the terracotta, blues, and pale-yellow colors. The light from the windows diffused the room in a glow as it showcased the red rock formations against a brilliant azure sky … a striking artistic palette of primary hues!
After checking in, I made my way to my suite through a winding garden and over a small wooden bridge partially covered in vines. I quickly realized I was in a secluded, artist’s paradise complete with original murals, paintings, sculptures, and gardens. The enchanting ambiance deftly captures the spirit of Sedona.
The chateau is owned and managed by two talented artists, Philippe and Janet Buillet, who crafted a vision over two decades ago and have poured their hearts and souls into creating their delightful boutique inn.
They have been joined by their son, Jean Christophe, in managing the property, while their daughter Allegra can frequently be found at the front desk.
Exploring the Property
The property features gardens artfully interwoven with patios where guests can relax or stroll at leisure alongside a stream that cascades into a lovely pond with a gently murmuring waterfall. They can also enjoy a peaceful swim in the saltwater pool, or relax in an outdoor spa, both offering red rock views.
On cool evenings, a beverage can be enjoyed while relaxing next to a warm fire pit in the shadow of Bear Mountain, Thunder Mountain, and Coffee Pot Rock.
One of Sunset Chateau’s most beloved spaces, the dining room, is aglow with saffron yellow decorated with murals, paintings, and works of art by the owners. It’s a joyous room to entertain an artistic soul.
A complimentary gourmet breakfast is served daily from 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM., with a different main entrée cooked to order for individual guests each day. If a guest has any allergies or desires something not on the menu, just let the front desk know in advance or ask your server and the kitchen will kindly accommodate if possible.
The main entrée my first morning was an eggs Florentine, served on an English muffin with grilled ham, sauteed spinach, poached eggs, and the Inn’s homemade hollandaise sauce. It was accompanied by freshly made pico de gallo salsa and finished with a sprinkle of paprika and parsley.
If the bountiful breakfast dishes are not enough to start your day in a state of happiness, the glorious views from the dining room and adjacent outdoor patio overlooking a vista of red rocks are stunning.
Meticulous Details and Thoughtful Extras
A Sunset Chateau offers 600-square-foot suites with private entrances. All suites are individually designed and furnished with thoughtful attention to personal comforts such as fireplaces and premium bedding; each includes a well-appointed kitchenette. Every suite has a large LED TV in the sitting room as well as the bedroom with access to Netflix, Hulu, and cable channels.
The kitchenette was spotlessly clean and thoroughly equipped with everything we needed including a coffee maker, a selection of premium coffees, creamers and sweeteners, cookware, dishware and utensils. There was an electric kettle, toaster, stovetop, microwave, paper towels and even complimentary restaurant dining guides.
For me, it’s the small details that impress, like not needing to rush out to the closest grocery store before I can enjoy a steaming cup of coffee in my own room or on the patio. Big bonus points for that!
Wine is available for purchase by the bottle and cocktails can be ordered from the front desk.
In addition, guests are offered free complimentary concierge services for setting up dinner reservations, local tours, in-room massages, and assistance with planning a fun daily itinerary based on individual interests.
Activities at A Sunset Chateau
Saltwater pool sound appealing? Perhaps a soak in a Jacuzzi spa? All while enjoying magnificent views of the red rocks.
Tennis anyone? There are public tennis courts located just across the street.
A garden walk? The property features beautifully landscaped gardens with meandering pathways, offering various spots to relax, including cabanas, and umbrella-covered tables.
Art? The chateau is located near many art galleries and cultural sites.
Hiking? Several trails near the property offer breathtaking views. You don’t want to miss the Airport Mesa Loop Trail. The 3.2-mile trail offers 360-degree vistas of some of Sedona’s most iconic red rock formations such as Cathedral Rock, Courthouse Butte and Bell Rock. These views are especially spectacular during sunrise and sunset.
Eco-friendly and Sustainability
The owners are committed to sustainability and have been long before it became trendy. The property is now proudly powered entirely by solar panels.
The hotel has upgraded all HVAC units, ensured newer refrigerators and wine coolers have climate-friendly refrigerants, and the inn’s electric truck is charged by on-site solar panels.
Converting to a saltwater pool and Jacuzzi spa reduced the need for chlorine chemicals. No chemicals are used in landscaping, and weeds are pulled by hand.
All mattresses are from Brooklyn Bedding and made with CertiPUR-US certified foam that doesn’t have “Tris” flame retardants or formaldehyde.
Food waste is also minimized.
“We almost never throw away food. Each meal is made to order, and guests eat most of the food on their plates,” property manager and chef Jean Christophe Buillet proudly explains. “The entire team eats breakfast together which creates a feeling of family, plus it has the added benefit of making use of any premade leftovers.”
Know Before You Go
For an authentic Southwest experience in Sedona while experiencing the friendliness of a bed and breakfast with upscale amenities and ambiance, look no further than A Sunset Chateau.
- This property does not have elevators.
- Reservations are required for massage services; reservations can be made by contacting the property prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation.
- The seasonal outdoor pool may close temporarily in January and February depending on the weather, but hearty souls willing to brave the chilly water are welcome. The poolside Kiva fireplace is lit each evening for guests’ enjoyment.
Getting to A Sunset Chateau Inn
Address: 665 South Sunset Dr, Sedona, AZ 86336, phone: 928-282-2644
The chateau is only a couple of hours’ drive from major cities like Phoenix and Scottsdale, although there is a small airport in Sedona if you prefer to fly:
- Phoenix Sky Harbort (PHX), just over two hours’ drive (about 119 miles).
- Flagstaff Pullium Airport (FLG), 25.3 miles; 40-minute drive to Sedona.
- Sedona Airport (KSEZ), No commercial flights. Fly private or charter aircraft only.
- Grand Canyon Airport (GCN),105 miles; two-hour drive from GCN to Sedona. Fly private or charter aircraft only into GCN Airport near the entrance to the South Rim.
