We left the Grand Canyon after two days and motored to Monument Valley, a 3 hour boring drive away! The View Hotel is inside the Navajo State Park, and is owned and run by the native Navajo American Indians. This was not covered by my Annual Parks pass, and cost $20 for entry. The hotel blends in beautifully with the landscape and all rooms have an outlook onto the iconic rock structures.

The room had 2 King beds and was very nicely furnished, with a balcony to enjoy the setting sun – but it was too cold to sit out!. The room rate did not include breakfast or dinner, and this was available in a cafeteria type restaurant. Both were a little disappointing. Whilst it was certainly the place to stay it was, perhaps, the most expensive for what it was – but where else would you go?!

We had organised a three hour off-road jeep trip in the backlands for next morning. This was an open-topped vehicle and under no circumstances was I sitting out on top! It was bitterly cold, so I sat in the warm cab with the driver whilst Peter braved the elements wrapped up in rugs! Interesting trip to a few landmarks with tales of Indian folklore.

We left in the afternoon for our 3 hour drive up north to Moab, travelling the road everyone travels!