FLAGSTAFF, AZ

Entering Flagstaff is like driving into an alpine retreat after miles and miles of burnt desert and wavering mirages on the steamy asphalt.

I know a place deep in the ponderosa pines where the air is cool and fresh, and you can fall asleep in a cozy room to the soft sound of a ceiling fan wafting in the chilly, night mountain air.

A quick jaunt south of Flagstaff will get you to the quiet town of Mountainaire, AZ,

nestled in the green hills just outside of Flagstaff. 

True to its name, the heavy scent of pine and damp wood fills the air in this serene little place where August temperatures average 80’ during the day and 50’ at night. Abineau Lodge is the local B&B, and if what you’re looking for is a cool retreat from the city, this is the place for you!

Roosters crow at a reasonable hour, reminding you to get up and eat by the 9:30 a.m. deadline.

You won’t want to miss one of Wendy’s famous concoctions of Stuffed French Toast or Hopi Blue Corn Pancakes. 

Whether you’re planning a full day of hiking or strenuous shopping, you’ll be energized and ready for whatever the day’s activities offer.

www.abineaulodge.com

Rates from $95

#888-715-6386

While there’s plenty to do in and around Flagstaff, I highly recommend taking the time to enjoy a hike in the woods behind the lodge. The property adjoins Coconino National Forest,

and the seclusion and natural sanctuary offer abundant opportunities to view elk grazing and a variety of birds. Soft pine needle paths will lead you deeper into the woods over ancient rock ridges. 

There, you can enjoy whispering pines and bird songs that will soothe your raw, road-weary nerves. Let nature rejuvenate your soul and senses at Abineau Lodge.

Across the meadow from the lodge, retired sled dogs yawn and stretch in the twilight, content to curl up and nap or visit with friendly travelers stopping for the night. Lodge owner Wendy—innkeeper extraordinaire—and husband Jaime share a love for rock-climbing and dog-sledding. 

The lodge even hosted outdoor adventures for guests (including dog-sledding) in the early years. 

Looking for a local bite to eat? Mountainaire Tavern—just across the meadow from Abineau Lodge—serves up local flavor and home-cooked meals in a charmingly rustic family-owned establishment. “Fine Food, Drinks, Music.” Strands of white lights cast a warm glow on the dark wood ceiling and walls. Live music can be enjoyed on Sundays, but lively, booze-infused political banter and local gossip can be heard at the bar any night of the week. If a game’s on the TV, expect some animated sports commentary and a little friendly trash talk among local patrons. Kick back, relax and enjoy the tavern’s specialties:  beer-battered veggies, award-winning Tavern Chili, pizzas, steaks, hamburgers, subs or a high-stacked plate of Tavern Nacho Grande. If local flavor’s what you’re in the mood for, you won’t be disappointed! (#928-525-1137)

While downtown Flagstaff sports an eclectic, colorful kind of vibe, it’s hard to resist the gravitational pull of the Grand Canyon, less than a hundred miles away now! Resist the force for a moment, and find a few adventures in Flagstaff:

www.flagstaffarizona.org

For Fun:
·         Heritage Square:  friendly gathering spot in the heart of downtown offering an array of free entertainment. Memorial through Labor Day, enjoy “Thursdays on the Square” (live music events); Sundays, shop the Artisan Market (10-4).  www.heritagesquaretrust.org
·         Lowell Observatory:  founded in 1894, this active observatory provides tours and telescope viewing. (Pluto was discovered in 1930 from this very site!)  www.lowell.edu
·         Museum of Northern Arizona:  a fascinating regional museum capturing the spirit of the Colorado Plateau with its richly diverse Native cultures and tribal traditions.  www.musnaz.org
·        Northern Arizona Trail Rides:  rides for everyone from the most experienced to first-timers.  (928) 225-1538 

For Food:
·         Brandy's Restaurant & Bakery:  award-winning breakfasts featuring fresh goods from the bakery and espresso. www.brandysrestaurant.com
·         Charly’s Pub & Grille:  in the downtown restored historic Hotel Weatherford, est. 1897 which serves an exceptional plate of Navajo Tacos. www.weatherfordhotel.com
·         The Cottage Place: highly awarded and recommended for fine dining in Flagstaff. www.cottageplace.com

·         Galaxy Diner:   fifties fun on Route 66. A highly nostalgic experience complete with over-the-top  neon and classic diner-style décor.  
#928-774-2466