15/12/2023
Briar Patch Inn Celebrates its 40th Anniversary and welcomes a new Events Director
In the late 1970s, as Phoenix, Arizona experienced a surge in population, JoAnn and Ike Olson sought a quieter life and relocated to Cottonwood, near Sedona. In 1983, they came upon what was then The Briar Patch Resort, a property with a rich history and an abundance of blackberry vines. 1987, they acquired the property, formerly known as Terracotta Cottages and, by combining the two, The Briar Patch Inn came into being. The Inn has been a family-run business, managed by their son Rob Olson for the past 28 years, fostering a sense of family not only within the Olson clan but also among staff members who have dedicated decades to the establishment.
The cottages and the main Lodge are decorated in Native American southwestern décor, reflecting the family’s appreciation of the Arts and Culture.
Briar Patch Inn holds a special place in the Sedona community, offering a sanctuary for healing, relaxation, digital detox, and communion with nature.
The Olsons have diligently preserved the historic cabins and embraced sustainability initiatives, deliberately eliminating digital distractions such as telephones, Wi-Fi and televisions in the cabins to facilitate a disconnection from the outside world. The Inn’s commitment to providing a space for transformative experiences is evident in numerous stories of magical encounters shared by guests over the years. Grateful for the support from both the local Sedona community and global visitors, the Briar Patch Inn looks forward to expanding its role as a destination for intentional healing and nature connection through wellness retreats and events.
2023 marks the 13th year in a row that Ranking Arizona has named Briar Patch Inn the #1 Bed & Breakfast in Arizona.
Briar Patch Inn is delighted to welcome Elizabeth Brito as the new Events Director. Elizabeth has extensive hospitality experience with her customer service training starting at the Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia, then moving on to some of the best catering companies and restaurants in Philadelphia. She moved to Sedona, Arizona in 2019 to practice her Healing Arts, and has been a massage therapist here at The Patch for 4 years. She is very excited to guide others towards “Nurturing Their Relationship with Nature”. When she is not in a healing session or at the front desk, she may be often be found exploring the Red Rocks of Sedona, connecting with Mother Earth.
