So many reasons to visit Santa Fe – cultural activities, endless blue skies filled with puffy white clouds, countless fine art galleries, delicious dining, hiking, and spa visits.
I hadn’t visited in a few years, so I included a stay at newly refurbished Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado – so happy I headed to the hills! The hotel is tucked in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains just outside of downtown Santa Fe. The resort is a luxurious oasis of privacy, serenity and calm. New Mexico is known for its mystical energy and the resort and spa are designed to incorporate wellness and rejuvenation.
I’ve been to the resort many times for dinner. One awesome addition since the Four Seasons took over management is the on–site Adventure Center, offering bike rides, guided tours of Taos and Georgia O’Keeffe Country to hiking excursions.
Every morning, a local guided hike is offered by the hotel naturalist, take off from the lobby and be high above the resort in minutes, the dramatic views are amazing. Walk past the adobe home of the original Ranch owner, Betty Egan. The property was once a 57-acre dude ranch and gathering spot for western movie stars practicing their horseback riding skills. If you’re a western buff, the Four Seasons Rancho Encantado proudly displays Betty Egan’s saddle, right next to the bar. There is also a wall display of eclectic western riding gear; John Wayne was a regular and good friend of the original owner; an old tale suggests that he gave Betty his favorite horse. She apparently christened the property with the name “Enchanted Ranch”.
Floating SUP Yoga in the pool. Take your yoga practice to the next level with an invigorating one-hour open-air experience on a paddleboard. The teacher will guide you through a thoughtful and light-hearted flow, allowing you to cherish the inspiring views of the Sangre de Cristo foothills. Please wear your swim attire and bring an open mind and a playful spirit.
SPA At the Spa at Four Seasons Santa Fe, indulge in the unique experiences in the spa or on your outdoor terrace. Retreat through a guided journey of peace and enlightenment to purify and restore from the outside in. Begin with a sage smudging ceremony, clearing unsettled energy. Reduce the visible signs of aging with a Chocolate Truffle Body Wrap. The active ingredients – cocoa, macadamia nut oil, almond oil, jojoba oil, ginseng and lecithin – offer antioxidants to help refine your skin’s appearance, plus a boost in collagen production for deep hydration.
Relax and reset with a detoxifying activated charcoal body scrub that will nourish and renew your skin followed by a skin hydrating body wrap, rejuvenating scalp massage and black pearl eye mask to purify, balance and promote well-being.
Casitas and suites – Perfect for family vacations or getaways with friends, the two luxury Suites deliver rustic luxury in a secluded setting, with separate living, dining and sleeping areas that combine effortlessly with sweeping mountain views. Casitas are large and cozy yet minimalist with wood burning adobe Kiva fireplaces, soaking tubs, and terraces. It all feels very private and spacious. I enjoyed breakfasts and a massage on the terrace and fires each night. There’s nothing quite like an adobe Kiva, for me it was the cozy star of the room. One afternoon was spent in the fabulous Four Seasons bed with Kiva burning all day while I read and wrote in my journal. If you haven’t slept in a Four Seasons bed, you must – I think they are the best beds in the world, and you can purchase them on line.
Dining at Terra – Begin outside at the Terra Bar with dramatic views and sunset sipping! Experience an array of favorites, choose from an array of Santa Fe Queso, Green Chili Chicken Wings, Spanish Cheese Board and Encantado Shrimp Tacos. Sip on a selection of tequilas and do order the special, Prickly Pear Margarita Cocktail, Yummy!
The restaurant menu draws on local techniques and organic seasonal produce, utilizing the finest ingredients to create memorable regional cuisine. Arrive early for a cocktail and enjoy the sunset before heading to dinner. In my case, lightening slashed the dark sky, thunder pounded like a drum, all in the distance, as a yellow ball of sun dipped below the thunderclouds. A dramatic evening finale!
Situated in the Sangre de Cristo foothills, at over 7,000 feet, Santa Fe is known for year-round outdoor adventure, a vibrant arts scene and rich Native American history. The art and sculpture dotting the public spaces and rooms provide a strong sense of place.
On my last night after dinner, the security guard saw me waiting in the cold for a buggy back to my casita. He said if you don’t mind the truck, I’ll take you back. Ok, I’m fine with a little truck! After stopping for the full moon photo, he built a fire in my casita Kiva, and gave me a little s’more package with a stick!
He then told me about his Native tribe… and their Pueblo… I’m fascinated by local culture and always thrilled to hear personal stories! It’s what makes Travel worthwhile. He invited me to bring my friends to a Feast, every July 14, in his Pueblo, the Corn Dance. All the grandmothers prepare food, there’s singing and dancing… come with your friends!
Making friends, a new story for my Journey!
The corn dance takes place on July 14th at Cochiti Pueblo as part of the annual St. Bonaventure Feast Day.
And an indication of Four Seasons service: an unexpected buggy ride, moon photo, kiva fire, s’more’s and a personal story! Grateful. Highly Recommend!
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