The Inn and Spa at Loretto, one of Santa Fe’s iconic boutique luxury hotels, could easily be mistaken for the ancient Taos Pueblo. The hotel’s angular architecture, soothing desert hues, and romantic lighting draw heavily on the original pueblo. Rooms are outfitted with both traditional touches (handcrafted furniture, Anasazi pottery and artwork, kiva fireplaces, colorful textiles) and modern luxuries (slate-floored bathrooms, iPod docks, flat-screen TVs, private balconies). The restaurant and spa are among the best in the state, and the atmospheric lounge one of the coolest spots in town to sip cocktails and catch live music. And, as if it needed another dose of history, the landmark Loretto Chapel sits on the grounds, guaranteeing both excellent views and easy sightseeing access. Now, if only more pueblos were like this.
More Recommendations
Sleep Well in Santa Fe
The Inn and Spa at Loretto next to the Loretto Chapel is within walking distance of everything around the Santa Fe Plaza but off the plaza by a mere two blocks. Notice I emphasize walking, as driving narrow one-way streets built for mules and horses is never recommended. Very good dining here too. Thankfully the Inn does allow dogs. Staff are terrific, but everybody in this town is super friendly.
Stay in Santa Fe
Put Santa Fe, New Mexico on your list right now. Let me tell you why. This was my second visit to Santa Fe. The first time, my mom, my friend Shannon, and I set up camp in the Santa Fe National Forest before strolling around the town square for a few hours. We all agreed Santa Fe was a special place, beautifully thriving in culture and art, perfectly set in southwestern grandeur. We loved every minute of it, but alas, returned to our tent in the forest with adobe dreams in our heads. Maybe it was a blessing in disguise that the Santa Fe National Forest was closed when Paul and I rolled into town. Due to dry conditions and the deadly forest fires surrounding the area, our camping options were limited and, in this case, nonexistent. Perfect excuse to book a room at a luxurious inn and spa, right? With the help of the awesome Hotel Tonight app, we booked a room at the beautiful Inn and Spa at Loretto. It was gorgeous, inside and out. We made sure to take advantage of the pool and bar area, as well as enjoy a few tranquil sips of coffee on our balcony overlooking a peaceful and quiet early morning in Santa Fe. When not basking in the luxury of Loretto, we spent our days walking around town, leisurely ducking in and out of art galleries, and dining on sopapillas at the Guadalupe Cafe.