Arizona, cactus country
Known as the Grand Canyon state, there is a lot more captivating scenery that awaits beyond that iconic chasm. Arizona equals rugged red rocks and endless stretches of cactus beneath a blazing sun. From the awe-inspiring majesty of national parks to the eclectic charm of artsy, new-age resort towns, every road offers a new discovery. The warm, dry wind carries the whistling tunes of the Wild West while cicadas vibrate at sunset. Adventure, untamed landscapes and tranquility under vast, open skies.
On a typical Arizona trip, the Grand Canyon is usually the first go-to. But we set out to explore a more hidden gem: Saguaro National Park. It lacks the dramatic features of some of the more popular parks, yet shines in all its Sonoran desert glory thanks to its namesake, the saguaro cactus. Forests, valleys and rolling hills are filled with these striking giants.
Do: hike the Hugh Norris Trail and Cactus Forest Trail at sunrise or sunset
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Eat: the quesadilla at Seis Kitchen
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Listen: JTH House New Moon Playlist
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Stock up at: Time Market gourmet store
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Do: hike the Hugh Norris Trail and Cactus Forest Trail at sunrise or sunset __ Eat: the quesadilla at Seis Kitchen __ Listen: JTH House New Moon Playlist __ Stock up at: Time Market gourmet store __
Stay: The JTH Posada
A few years ago, I bought the book ‘At Home in Joshua Tree, a field guide to desert living’, written by a creative couple who renovated three vacation rentals in Joshua Tree. The book details their passion for design and décor, entertaining and gardening, all the things that make my heart beat faster. When we took a trip to .Joshua Tree, I obviously wanted to stay there but unfortunately the property was fully booked. They stayed on my radar, and meanwhile, they also opened a small inn close to Saguaro National Park. This year, when traveling to Arizona, we stayed there. And it did not disappoint.
