In the wide open spaces of Arizona, the American myth takes on its full dimension. Seven days might not even be enough to explore these amazing mineral landscapes, where the vintage signs of Route 66 stand side-by-side with the ancient heritage of Native peoples. Arizona might just be the best state for road trips, as if America had shaped it to be driven across, engine roaring and hair blowing in the wind. And with Air France flying direct from Paris to Phoenix, this adventure has never been so accessible.

The idea of a road trip really took off on American highways during the 1950s, and it reaches its pinnacle here. Arizona perfectly embodies this quintessential American adventure: offering outdoor experiences galore. spectacular national parks The ancient traditions of the Navajo and Hopi tribes, along with the spirits of the Wild West and the iconic Route 66, add to the rich tapestry. Blend this with a food scene that merges classic dishes with modern innovation. Over seven days, journey from the rims of the Grand Canyon to the plateaus of Monument Valley, exploring what Arizona has to offer.

Day 1: Phoenix to Sedona

In Phoenix Today, we can truly appreciate the artwork created by Native communities. For nearly a hundred years, the Heard Museum has showcased some of their most exceptional pieces. Meanwhile, the Fry Bread House honors their perseverance through a simple yet beloved dish. As you venture further, take Route 87 heading north into another part of Arizona where the landscape transforms dramatically; as you move along, the iconic saguaros yield to the grandeur of Rim Country’s sprawling woodlands.

In Payson, stop by the Beeline Café, a classic roadside diner where the coffee seems endless and conversations flow just as freely. From there, make your way to Sedona, famous for its striking red rock formations—a landscape that serves as fertile ground for countless legends. Since the 1980s, certain sites called "vortexes" such as Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock—have captured the interest of the New Age movement. These places embody an intriguing blend where mysticism always coexists with the natural beauty of the mineral-rich environment.

• Travel time: about 2h30

• Heard Museum

  2301 North Central Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona 85004

  +1 602-252-8840

• Fry Bread House

  4545 North 7th Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona 85013

  +1 602-351-2345

• Beeline Café

  815 S Beeline Highway, Payson, AZ 85541

  +1 928-474-996

Day 2: Sedona - Grand Canyon

There are two methods to uncover the amazing Grand Canyon If you're a hurried traveler or a devoted spectator, prepare yourself for sunrise at the South Rim – the sole section open throughout the year. This location undoubtedly offers the most breathtaking view within the Grand Canyon as the morning’s initial beams illuminate the ancient layered rock formations.

For those seeking an adrenaline-pumping outdoor experience, the Bright Angel Trail provides the perfect opportunity to delve deep into the heart of the canyon with a thrilling multi-day trek. Alternatively, if you prefer to keep your feet dry, the Rim Trail presents a more relaxed 8-kilometer walk from Mather Point to Yavapai Point. This brief yet geologically rich route spans approximately two billion years of Earth’s history.

• Travel time: about 2h

• Grand Canyon National Park Welcome Center

  20 South Entrance Road, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023

  +1 928-638-7888

Day 3: Grand Canyon - Monument Valley

The hallowed grounds of the Navajo nation span across Arizona and Utah. The plateaus of Monument Valley stand as though they are the final remnants of an ancient time; for the Navajos, these formations became holy sites, and subsequently, John Ford utilized this natural backdrop to film his Western movies.

The Valley Drive follows a 27-kilometer loop among these cinematic rock formations, yet the lesser-known treasures of the region—Mystery Valley and Antelope Canyon slightly to the north—are accessible exclusively with a Navajo guide, who are the modern guardians of this historic culture.

• Travel time : about 3h

• Navajo Tribal Park at Monument Valley

  U.S. Route 191, Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536

  +1 435-727-5874

Day 4: Visiting Monument Valley near Holbrook

Leaving Monument Valley on the legendary Route 66, the landscape changes to a wild colour palette. The Painted Desert opens into a surreal array of ochre, purple and grey-blue strata all over its dry rocky landforms. And this breathtaking sight is a mere prelude to the Petrified Forest: fossilised tree trunks, 225 million years old, strewn across the landscape with their age-old mineral brilliance.

In the evening, make your way to the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, which consists of peculiar tent-shaped accommodations as sturdy as the surrounding woods. This iconic motel along Route 66 continues to embody the spirit of 1950s America, offering respite to tired travelers even today.

• Travel time: 2h30

• Petrified Forest National Park

  1 Park Road, Petrified Forest, AZ 86028

  +1 928-524-6228

• Wigwam Motel 811 West Hopi Drive, Holbrook, Arizona 86025

  +1 928-524-3048

Day 5: Holbrook to Flagstaff

Ranging between heaven and earth, Arizona serves as an unyielding statewide testament to humanity’s modest place in existence. Petroglyphs at the Rock Art Ranch near Winslow preserve the tales of early inhabitants striving to etch their presence into history.

Moving further, the Meteor Crater stands as a 50,000-year-old scar on Arizona’s terrain, etched into existence by an extraterrestrial collision. This profound reminder indicates that both earthly forces and cosmic happenstance have shaped this land. Later in the day, the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff offers yet another chance to gaze upon the vastness of space from a remarkable observatory perched here on Earth, thereby putting our size and place within the grand scheme of things into perspective.

• Travel time: 1h30

• Lowell Observatory

  1400 West Mars Hill Road, Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

  +1 928-774-3358

• Rock Art Ranch

  Winslow, AZ 86047

  +1 928-288-3260

• Meteor Crater

  Interstate 40, Exit 233, Winslow, Arizona 86047

  +1 800-289-5898

Day 6: Flagstaff - Wickenburg

The first destination for the morning was Delgadillos Snow Cap Drive-In in Seligman. This iconic spot along Route 66 captures the essence of the fifties so vividly that it served as inspiration for the filmmakers. Cars Next comes the stunning Joshua Tree Parkway. Along this picturesque route, you'll encounter colossal yucca trees with their contorted limbs, reminiscent of the outstretched arms of Prophet Joshua as per Mormon belief, standing tall like numerous natural monuments.

To the south of Wickenburn, lies the 'ghost town' of Vulture City, encapsulating within its walls and structures the legacy of nineteenth-century gold prospectors who built an entire settlement from scratch amidst Arizona’s arid landscape. Exotic yet eternal, this place embodies all the romance and ruggedness associated with the Old American West.

• Travel time: 2h30

• Delgadillo's Snow Cap Drive-In

  301 AZ-66, Seligman, AZ 86337

  +1 928-422-3291

• Vulture City Ghost Town

  36610 North 355th Avenue, Wickenburg, Arizona 85390

  +1 877-425-9229

Day 7: Wickenburg to Phoenix

The final outdoor escapade of this road trip takes place at Lake Pleasant, a sprawling oasis with shimmering turquoise waters set against the desert backdrop. Spanning over 4,000 hectares, this artificial lake has transformed into a surprising retreat for both kayaking enthusiasts and osprey birds. Meanwhile, campers can revel in witnessing some of Arizona’s most stunning sunset views here.

Upon returning to Phoenix, following a side trip to the captivating Botanical Desert Garden, it’s time to conclude today’s expedition at The Arrogant Butcher, an upscale eatery. Featuring rustic exposed brick interiors and dishes like steamy barbecue short ribs along with buffalo chicken wings, this spot offers a blend of urban sophistication and cozy appeal.

• Travel time: 1h30

• Desert Botanical Garden

  1201 North Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, Arizona 85008

  +1 480-941-1225

• The Arrogant Butcher

  2 East Jefferson Street, Suite 150, Phoenix, Arizona 85004

  +1 602-324-8502