For me, both Prescott and Sedona offer natural beauty and authentic experiences that are a “must-see” when in Arizona. The difference between the two is generally the price point and the theme. One is more focused on authentic, historical experiences that reflect the Wild West days of Prescott as opposed to the more spiritual and soul-based immersions that permeate Sedona. What is amazing is that each town is only about 90 minutes driving distance from the other. If you can, definitely visit both locations. If you are looking for affordable luxury, Prescott is decidedly the best choice.
The Location
The location is ideal for those with transportation. However, this is generally true of almost any place located in the Southwest due to the wide and vast distances. The Forest Villas Hotel is located on a hill and is easily accessed from Highway 69 between Prescott and Prescott Valley. Just across the highway from the hotel is the convenient Gateway Mall. Plus, the historic Courthouse Plaza and Whiskey Row are only a 10-minute drive, about 4.5 miles away. Fishing, mountain hiking, biking, and water-based sports are all close by.
The Phoenix airport is about 1 3/4 hours away, while spiritual Sedona is about a 90-minute drive through an amazingly scenic landscape.
The Hotel
The Forest Villas Hotel is a family-owned boutique hotel that prides itself on offering value-based luxury and superb service in a Mediterranean-inspired decor. In fact, their slogan is: “Mediterranean Comfort, Hometown Hospitality.” With 62 guestrooms that are surprisingly affordable given the amenities and comforts they offer, you will enjoy a picturesque yet peaceful stay here by the mountains.
You walk past a manicured courtyard into the entrance of the hotel. Here you are greeted by an elegant lobby with a chandelier, a grand piano, a fireplace, and European tapestry, while the walls are decorated with original artworks.
Both English and Spanish language employees check you in for your stay – a stay that will leave you impressed, refreshed, and renewed. Therefore, don’t be surprised that you will want to come back again, and again, and again. My husband and I were also greeted after check-in with two freshly-baked cookies from their kitchen.
Relaxation is everywhere. Outdoor lounge areas boast a seasonal 20,000 gallon outdoor pool, hot tub, and fire pit in a garden-like setting with views of the mountains. Plus, there is plenty of free self-parking, both covered and uncovered.
The property offers complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, a Business center, a Rose Garden Boardroom, fitness club access, and a guest washer/dryer. What a difference this makes for longer stays.
A complimentary hot breakfast greets you the following morning.
The Room
Rooms are spacious in an elegant, yet inviting and comfortable way. Our particular room sported a balcony with two chairs to sit outside and enjoy the breeze. Unfortunately, our stay coincided with hot weather typical of Arizona, so we chose to enjoy the comfort of our room as an alternative.
Traveling Soon? These useful links will help you prepare for your trip.- Buy Travel Insurance
- Get a Car Rental
- Buy Travel Insurance
- Get a Car Rental
The Rates
For the best rates online as well as special packages, book directly with Forest Villas Hotel.
Depending on the day of the week, season, and room type, rates generally start around $120.00 USD per night for a standard King room. Be sure to check the website for special promotions. This is a particularly popular venue for small meetings, weddings, and anniversary celebrations.
Check rates online at Expedia, Booking.com, Agoda.com, or Hotels.com.
The Bottom Line
This is one of my all-time favorite hotel stays, with a friendly atmosphere, a gracious and spacious lounge area, a sparkling pool, and a check-in staff that is extremely professional yet with a friendly hospitality that makes you feel welcome from the start.
The hotel is family-owned with a boutique ambiance that is unique yet upscale, comfortable, and with a Mediterranean vibe.
This is affordable luxury close to many of the downtown attractions in historic Prescott.
Staff is very well-trained and understand the meaning of hospitality. That means they definitely pay attention to details. They can provide personalized suggestions for local restaurants and attractions, depending on your interests and budget.
Non-smoking, the hotel is also pet-friendly with select rooms available for a surcharge.
For additional places to stay in the Phoenix area, consider the following:
The Hermosa Inn is rich with Arizona history
Karin Leperi Pezo is a writer and photographer living part-time in Peru and part-time in Nevada. She and her husband paid full fare for two nights. All photos are by Karin Pezo, unless otherwise noted. As always, all opinions are those of the author and are based on an actual overnight stay at the property. This authentically contrasts against AI-generated text that is strictly based on second-hand research.
