santa fe & taos
BIKING
SANTA FE & TAOS PREMIERE INNS
Ride the back roads of New Mexico, the land that so inspired Georgia O'Keeffe. Where high desert beauty awaits. And routes perfect for biking. Like the Enchanted Circle towering above Taos. Or the high road to Chimayó. The Jemez Mountains and Bandelier National Monument. A ride, a destination and a vastness you won't easily forget. 17BNMIR1l 9/23/2016
NEVER SUBCONTRACTED We operate our own trips around the globe. That way we control the quality—and we're fully responsible for your great experience.
TWO SUPPORT VANS Excellent trip ‐ the rides were challenging and the scenery was incredible. Our leaders were great guides/hosts and really made everyone feel welcome. The trip was challenging in the areas I wanted it to be (cycling) and easy/stress free when off the bike.
We provide two support vans on all of our trips* so you can count on us to be there when you need us, regardless of the route you take.
THREE LEADERS Our trips have three leaders*, for an average 6:1 guest-to-leader ratio. Guests consistently score our leaders 9.7 out of 10, telling us they make all the difference.
Dale Surbey ‐ Houston, TX
THOUGHTFUL TRIP DESIGN
Click HERE to read more guest reviews
We know how to create exceptional travel experiences, ensuring that you get the most from your trip as it unfolds.
MULTIPLE DAILY ROUTES Being able to choose among several expertly designed routes each day gives you the freedom to enjoy the best of a region at your own pace.
WE CELEBRATE MIXED ABILITIES To accommodate varied activity levels, you need three leaders, two vans, multiple route options, detailed directions, a rating system showing if shuttles are required, and plenty of well-matched riding/hiking companions. *Over 95% of Backroads guests on scheduled trips travel with three Backroads trip leaders or support staff, and two or more vehicles. We even add a fourth leader for meet and move days on some of our most logistically complex trips with the most guests to ensure everyone enjoys the best possible support. On less than 5% of scheduled trips, the number of guests is small enough that we can maintain our trademark high service standards with just two leaders and one van.
6 DAYS, 5 NIGHTS Click HERE for departure dates and pricing details ROUTE RATING LEVELS 2–5 See below for details TO RESERVE YOUR TRIP Sign up online HERE or call 800‐GO‐ACTIVE (462‐2848) or 510‐527‐1555 Open daily 6 a.m.–6 p.m. Pacific time
Click HERE to learn more about the Backroads Quality Index
We want to make sure you're on the right trip and that you have the best experience possible. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.
TRAFFIC & RIDING CONDITIONS While Backroads strives to find routes that are quiet and off the beaten track, that's not always possible in New Mexico and some options on this trip follow more heavily trafficked roads. Of course, you're always welcome to jump in the shuttle to avoid the busier stretches.
Experience the vastness of northern New Mexico as you're accompanied by sagebrush, piñon pine and a painted desert. If you opt for a post‐lunch ride, be sure to take time to visit the resort's hot springs, pools and the mud bath, where slathering yourself in mud and "baking" in the sun is said to remove toxins. This evening we gather for a welcome reception before heading to dinner at the hotel's restaurant. Lodging: Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa
Day 1 On the first day of the trip, meet your Backroads Trip Leaders (the folks in Backroads T‐shirts) at 9 a.m. at La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa (505‐986‐0000), located at 330 East Palace Avenue in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Please arrive dressed in your biking clothes and bring your luggage and a daypack with your rain gear, a swimsuit (if you'd like to take a dip in the hot springs upon arrival at the hotel!) and anything else you may want for today's ride. Your luggage will be transported to our first night's accommodations. Shuttle to Black Mesa Winery 1 Hour Biking Options:
El Duende Route: 16 Miles* (500' elevation gain) Ojo Caliente Route: 33 Miles (1,500') *with shuttle
Welcome to New Mexico, the Land of Enchantment! After meeting, we shuttle into northern New Mexico to Black Mesa Winery, located along the Rio Grande River. Upon arrival, your Backroads Trip Leaders fit your bike and give a brief talk on biking techniques and safety to prepare you for today's ride. After a picnic lunch at the winery, our route takes us from the quaint, local farmlands alongside the Rio Grande to the undulating hills of the surrounding volcanic tuft. If the hot springs at tonight's hotel are calling your name, hop in the shuttle to head directly to our home for the night, Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa. If you're keen to arrive on two wheels, ride the rolling route from El Duende to Ojo Caliente.
Day 2 Biking Options:
Taos Mesa Brewing Co. Route: 33 Miles (2,200' elevation gain) Ojo Caliente to Taos Route: 43 Miles (2,100') St. Francis de Asis Route: 53 Miles (2,400') Listen to the whir of your wheels and take in your magnificent surroundings as you bike the wide open expanses of the Carson Plateau. Cycle over the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge to gaze down a thousand vertical feet into the gorge. Finish the route at Taos Mesa Brewing Co. with a delicious lunch and beer tasting overlooking the Taos Mountains. After lunch, those looking for a unique cultural experience will shuttle to Taos Pueblo, a National Historic Landmark and World Heritage site, where 150 full‐time residents live according to tradition, with no running water or electricity in their homes or businesses. Explore the pueblo, perhaps stopping to enjoy some baked goods fresh from the hornos (outdoor ovens). (Please note: Once in a while, Taos Pueblo closes its doors to visitors—without any warning—to tend to Pueblo business.)
Continue on to El Monte Sagrado, a luxurious eco‐ conscious resort set on lush grounds, just a short walk from Taos Plaza. After settling in at the hotel, feel free to visit the spa or explore the quaint shops and beautiful galleries in Taos before dinner at a nearby restaurant. (Spa treatments are not included in the trip price. Advance reservations are recommended.) Lodging: El Monte Sagrado
Day 3 Biking Options:
Arroyo Seco Loop: 29 Miles (1,500' elevation gain) Red River/Veteran's Memorial Route: 42 Miles* (3,100') Enchanted Circle Route: 90 Miles (6,200')
Day 4
*with shuttle
Biking Options:
Today is your chance to tackle all or part of the famous Enchanted Circle, a scenic byway that curves around the base of 13,161‐foot Wheeler Peak. Start off by heading north to the quaint town of Arroyo Seco, then set your sights on the town of Questa and, eventually, Red River, a former gold‐mining camp surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo peaks. Enjoy lunch in Red River between towering cliffs and ponderosa pine, and perhaps dip your feet in the town river before more climbing ahead.
US Hill Route: 32 Miles* (2,200' elevation gain) Chimayó Route: 53 Miles (4,300') *with shuttle
Feeling warmed up after yesterday's action? Time to ride the High Road to Santa Fe! Put your legs to the test as you pedal up and down across the flanks of the Truchas Mountains, visiting the galleries and sanctuaries of the hidden villages of northern New Mexico along the way. Shortly after you set out, you'll climb to a spectacular viewpoint above Apache Canyon. From here, bike along a series of hills through the laid‐back communities of Las Trampas (7,380 feet) and Truchas (7,910 feet), where Robert Redford's Milagro Beanfield War was filmed. (A shuttle is available to the top of US Hill at 8,390 feet, so don't be daunted!)
Refueled, it's up and over Bobcat Pass followed by an exhilarating downhill into the Moreno Valley and Eagle Nest Lake State Park. If you still have the legs for it, wind your way up Palo Flechado before the final homeward descent through the Fernando de Taos Canyon. If you're considering taking on the complete Enchanted Circle Route, keep in mind that it's an extremely demanding option that doesn't drop below 7,000 feet and includes two steep mountain passes. (The few Backroads guests who complete it describe it as one of the most challenging and rewarding rides of their lives.)
Continue to Chimayó, a tiny village founded after the Spanish re‐conquest of New Mexico in 1680 and renowned for its talented weavers and world‐class chiles. You may enjoy a tasting of New Mexico's state cookie, the bizcocho—typically served during celebrations and Christmas—homemade weekly in the Chavez Gallery. Or consider picking up some varieties of chile molido, the powdered form of the chile, to create your own version of authentic northern New Mexican cuisine!
Back at the resort, consider treating yourself to a massage—you deserve it after today's ride! Tonight, enjoy dinner on your own at the resort or a nearby restaurant. Lodging: El Monte Sagrado
Our next stop here is the Santuario, a 19th‐century adobe church and one of the most revered places in the Southwest. Because the ground where the Santuario sits is thought to have miraculous healing powers, you'll likely see pilgrims in a dimly lit back
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room kneeling over an opening in the floor, scooping the dirt out, and rubbing it on their arms, legs and faces. Crutches and leg braces discarded by the cured line the walls. This evening we settle into Four Seasons Rancho Encantado, ensconced in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and offering amazing vistas of the Jemez Mountains. Dinner tonight is at your leisure at the hotel. Lodging: Four Seasons Rancho Encantado
Day 5 Shuttle to Tsankawi 1 Hour Biking Options:
Tsankawi to Bandalier Route: 24 Miles (1,900' elevation gain) Valles Caldera Route: 42 Miles (4,100')
Day 6
Walking & Hiking Options:
Santa Fe Loop: 14 Miles (1,100' elevation gain) Four Seasons Route: 23 Miles (1,800')
Biking Options:
Tsankawi Ruins Route: 1.6 Miles (200') Bandelier Ruins Route: 2.6 Miles (200')
If sleeping in and enjoying a leisurely morning at the hotel isn't on your agenda, hop on your bike one last time and enjoy views of the Sangre de Cristo, Jemez and Sandia Mountains on a ride through Santa Fe's outlying neighborhoods. Gaze at those distant peaks and congratulate yourself for conquering some of them earlier this week!
Shuttle to Santa Fe 1 Hour
Following breakfast we shuttle into the foothills of the Jemez Mountains to do a short hike through Tsankawi Prehistoric Ruins, part of Bandelier National Monument. Next we take a quick, hilly ride into the town of Los Alamos where we enjoy our final Backroads picnic.
Continue pedaling to Canyon Road, one of the oldest roads in the United States, once part of a 13th‐century American Indian trail leading from the lower Rio Grande Valley to Taos. Today the historic byway hosts an active community of artists and craftspeople with shops, galleries and restaurants lining the street.
After lunch, take the opportunity to visit the Bradbury Science Museum, where you can learn about the WWII Manhattan Project, or continue riding into the Jemez Mountains which are filled with ponderosa pine forests and sweeping views of the valleys below. If you would like even more miles, head up to the Valles Caldera, a massive volcanic crater now protected as a national preserve.
After soaking up the local color, return to the hotel to freshen up before we sit down to a farewell lunch. Please see "Arriving & Departing" for end‐of‐trip logistics.
Our ride ends at Bandelier National Monument, where you'll discover an incredible collection of Ancient Pueblo ruins set against the sheer walls of Frijoles Canyon. Examine the remarkable talus homes built into the volcanic tuff, and ascend to the Alcove House, perched 140 feet above the canyon floor and accessible only by ladders.
KEEPING YOU UP TO DATE We are always seeking opportunities to enhance this itinerary. We’ll be certain to notify you of any important changes prior to departure; other changes may be communicated on trip by your leaders.
Tonight we toast our week together over a memorable meal at the Four Seasons' Terra Restaurant. Lodging: Four Seasons Rancho Encantado
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Trip Accommodations PREMIERE INNS*
At Backroads we understand that you have your own idea of the "perfect" trip—the right mix of being active, discovering new cultures and natural wonders, and having time to relax. Our trips are designed to be flexible, giving you the freedom to experience the best of the region the way YOU want. Feel like you're ready to go, go, go? We can show you the way! Want some downtime or prefer to head out on your own? No problem! Your Trip Leaders will make sure to tell you the best days to take time for yourself (if you want it) without feeling like you're missing out. So feel free to shift gears and make it your day!
1 Night (above ‐ Casual Inn) Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa Blending seamlessly into the cliffs, this remote desert oasis features ancient mineral springs believed to be sacred by American Indians. (pool, spa) | Ojo Caliente | ojospa.com | 800‐222‐9162 or 505‐583‐2233
2 Nights El Monte Sagrado With a warm inviting style inspired by American Indian and global cultures, this elegant haven is nestled in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, just outside of Taos. (spa) | Taos | www.elmontesagrado.com | 888‐213‐4419 or 575‐758‐ 3502
2 Nights Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Surrounded by the serene high‐desert landscape overlooking the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, this elegant resort combines luxurious amenities with distinct Southwestern style. (pool, spa) | Santa Fe | www.fourseasons.com/santafe | 505‐946‐5888 *With 1 Casual Inn night at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa
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downtown Albuquerque and Santa Fe Monday through Friday, with limited departures on weekends. The fare is approximately $10 and the trip takes 1–1½ hours. A free shuttle operates on weekdays between the Albuquerque airport and the downtown train depot; on Saturdays, public bus service is available.
Arriving & Departing After reviewing the following information, please inform us of your arrival and departure plans on your Personal Information Form.
MEETING TIME & LOCATION
Sandia Shuttle Express (www.sandiashuttle.com; 888‐ 775‐5696 or 505‐474‐5696) offers shuttles from the Albuquerque airport to Santa Fe for $30 per person one‐way or $55 round‐trip. Shuttles leave the airport every hour from 8:45 a.m. until 8:45 p.m. daily, with additional departures at 10:45 p.m. and 11:45 p.m. Reservations are required. Meet the shuttle at the check‐in counter located inside the airport on the baggage claim level across from Southwest Airline's baggage carousel No. 3. Travel time to Santa Fe is about 1¼ hours. Shuttles returning to the Albuquerque airport from Santa Fe depart every hour from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. The trip takes 1½–2 hours, depending on the number of pickups. Please call Sandia to schedule your pick‐up location and time.
On the first day of the trip, meet your Backroads Trip Leaders (the folks in Backroads T‐shirts) at 9 a.m. at La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa (505‐986‐0000), located at 330 East Palace Avenue in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Please arrive dressed in your biking clothes and bring your luggage and a daypack with your rain gear, a swimsuit (if you'd like to take a dip in the hot springs upon arrival at the hotel!) and anything else you may want for today's ride. Your luggage will be transported to our first night's accommodations.
CONCLUSION OF THE TRIP The trip ends around 2 p.m. at La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa. Sandia Shuttle Express provides transportation to the Albuquerque airport and can meet you at the Posada de Santa Fe upon request (not included in the trip price). See below for more information.
Capital City Cab (www.capitalcitycab.com; 505‐438‐ 0000) offers taxi service between Albuquerque and Santa Fe for approximately $165.
FLIGHT ARRANGEMENTS
TRANSPORTATION FROM SANTA FE’S AIRPORT TO DOWNTOWN SANTA FE
This trip starts and ends in Santa Fe. We recommend flying into Albuquerque International Sunport (airport code: ABQ; www.abqsunport.com) and using one of the transportation options below to get to Santa Fe. Alternatively you may be able to fly directly to Santa Fe Municipal Airport (SAF; www.santafenm.gov/airport); United Airlines and American Airlines offer limited service to Santa Fe from Denver, Dallas/Fort Worth and Los Angeles.
Roadrunner Shuttle (roadrunnershuttleandcharter.com; 505‐424‐3367) meets private and charter flights at Santa Fe Municipal Airport and can provide service to La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa for about $20 per person. Call to inquire about their regular shuttle service schedule; please make your reservations in advance. Capital City Cab also offers taxi service between the Santa Fe airport and downtown Santa Fe for approximately $50.
For help arranging air transport to and from your Backroads trip, please work with your own travel agent or you may choose to work with the Backroads Travel Desk at Dimensions in Travel. Their expert travel advisors are ready to share their insiders' knowledge of Backroads and our worldwide destinations. These professional agents are available to assist you with any of your travel needs. Call 800‐ GO‐ACTIVE (462‐2848) to be connected with an advisor. Please note that consulting or ticketing fees may apply, depending on the services requested. The Backroads Travel Desk at Dimensions in Travel is open Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Pacific time.
DRIVING TO LA POSADA DE SANTA FE RESORT & SPA FROM THE ALBUQUERQUE AIRPORT Santa Fe is located about 60 miles (1–1½ hours) north of Albuquerque off Interstate 25. • Travel on I‐25 north approximately 50 minutes to exit 282 A, US‐84 N/St. Francis Drive. • Follow St. Francis Drive to Cerrillos Road, and turn right.
Rail Runner Express (www.nmrailrunner.com; 866‐ 795‐7245) offers regular rail service between
• Stay in the right‐hand lane, and turn right on Paseo de Peralta.
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• Follow Paseo de Peralta, and turn right on East Palace Avenue. La Posada de Santa Fe will be immediately on your right.
Destination Details CLIMATE
Registration parking is next to the stone house on your left. You may be able to leave your car at La Posada de Santa Fe for the duration of the trip for a fee; please call ahead to see if they have space. Because space is limited in the hotel's parking lot, it's possible that the staff will need to move your car to another secure, nearby lot while you're on your Backroads trip. If the hotel cannot accommodate you, your leaders can make arrangements at one of several public parking lots in the area; typical rates are around $10 per day.
In late spring through early fall, daytime highs in Santa Fe and Taos are usually pleasantly warm; however, evenings and early mornings can be cold, with temperatures sometimes dropping by 30 degrees or more. Expect cooler temperatures at higher elevations, with the possibility of frost in the early morning. Remember that weather conditions in the mountains are very unpredictable, and it could rain—or even hail —at any time, bringing cooler temperatures. It’s essential that you come prepared with quality rain gear and plenty of warm bicycling clothes for early‐ morning rides.
Please note that a car isn't necessary if you are staying at La Posada or any of the hotels in downtown Santa Fe, as many of Santa Fe's main attractions are within walking distance of our recommended hotels.
Taos Average:
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
High °F
39
44
51
61
70
81
Low °F
7
14
21
28
37
45
Precip. in
0.7
0.6
0.8
0.8
1.2
0.9
Average:
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
High °F
85
82
75
65
51
41
Low °F
51
49
42
31
20
10
Precip. in.
1.6
1.8
1.3
1.1
0.7
0.7
Average:
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
High °F
43
48
54
64
74
84
Low °F
19
22
26
34
44
53
Precip. in
0.6
0.8
0.7
0.8
1.2
1.1
Average:
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
High °F
87
84
81
68
52
45
Low °F
58
56
50
39
24
19
Precip. in.
2.4
2.4
1.5
1.1
0.7
0.7
Santa Fe
PRICES & SCHEDULES All prices and schedules were current at the time of printing, but are subject to change at any time.
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Getting Active for Your Trip
CONDITIONING TIPS Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. We know your pace may vary from one day to the next—and your traveling companions' may differ somewhat from yours. So we present a range of mileage options, and each day you decide exactly what and how much you want to do. Before your trip, we suggest biking regularly and hitting a few hills whenever you can. Review the route options in the daily itinerary for the range of mileages offered on this trip. But mostly, just show up and have fun!
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Where to Stay Before & After Your Trip
The routes on this trip are rated Levels 2–5.
For help making hotel reservations for before and after your Backroads trip: • Work with your own professional travel agent. • Contact the Backroads Travel Desk at Dimensions in Travel by calling 800‐GO‐ACTIVE (462‐2848), Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Pacific time. Please note that consulting or ticketing fees may apply, depending on the services requested. • Book directly with the hotel or through a discount website. If you plan on extending your stay at our first night's hotel before the trip starts or our last night's hotel when the trip ends, let the hotel reservations agent know that you're traveling with Backroads; that way you may be able to avoid changing rooms.
Review the "Route Rating" section on the web for more details on daily route options.
La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa in Santa Fe is our meeting location on Day 1 and drop‐off location on Day 6. See the following for more information on this hotel The following is a selection of recommended properties that span a range of prices, amenities and locations, and are listed by price in descending order. Refer to the Hotel Room Rate Guide for the starting double‐occupancy rates, which were accurate at time of printing. Note that rates are subject to change and some hotels may require a minimum stay. Book early, especially during peak travel season!
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Hotel map: bit.ly/SantaFeHotels
www.innatloretto.com | 866‐582‐1646 or 800‐727‐5531 | 134 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦ ✦
Inn of the Five Graces
Hotel Santa Fe
SANTA FE
Located on the edge of downtown Santa Fe—a 15‐ minute walk from the plaza—the only Native American‐owned hotel in the city radiates Southwest style in its furnishings, fabrics and cuisine. (pool, spa) | 1501 Paseo de Peralta | www.hotelsantafe.com | 855‐825‐9876 or 505‐982‐1200 | 128 rooms & suites (plus 35 at The Hacienda) | Rates: ✦ ✦
The Orient meets the Old West in the individually decorated guest rooms and suites of this romantic inn. Rates include breakfast and other extras. A Relais & Châteaux member. (spa) | 150 DeVargas Street | www.fivegraces.com | 866‐992‐0957 or 505‐ 992‐0957 | 24 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
La Fonda on the Plaza Located directly on the plaza and across from the Palace of the Governors, La Fonda is the only New Mexico hotel on the National Trust’s Historic Hotels of America list. | 100 East San Francisco Street | www.lafondasantafe.com | 800‐523‐5002 or 505‐982‐ 5511 | 174 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
Inn on the Alameda
La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa
ABIQUIU
One of the plushest hotels in Santa Fe, La Posada showcases an elegant Spanish Colonial décor complete with handcrafted stone mantels, viga and latilla ceilings, tiled floors and opulent fabrics. | 330 East Palace Avenue | www.laposadadesantafe.com | 855‐278‐5276 or 505‐986‐0000 | 158 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
The rustic town of Abiquiu was Georgia O'Keeffe's home for several decades and the area that inspired many of her best‐known paintings. If you would like the opportunity to visit O'Keeffe's home or the Ghost Ranch Education and Retreat Center, you might consider a stay at the Abiquiu Inn before or after your Backroads trip. Tours of O'Keeffe's home and studio start from the inn Tuesday–Saturday (reservations are required). Abiquiu is about a one‐hour drive from Santa Fe.
If you’re craving the true flavor of Santa Fe in a warm intimate environment, you’ll love this charming adobe inn. | 303 East Alameda | www.innonthealameda.com | 888‐984‐2121 or 505‐ 984‐2121 | 71 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦
Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi Winning high praise from industry experts including Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure, this four‐star luxury boutique hotel is a testament to Southwestern elegance and style. Travel + Leisure World's Best. | 13 Washington Avenue | www.innoftheanasazi.com | 888‐767‐3966 or 505‐988‐3030 | 58 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
Hotel map: bit.ly/AbiquiuHotels
Abiquiu Inn A gem in the midst of New Mexico's splendor, this rustic inn features beautiful casitas inspired by the Southwest landscape. Don't miss the displays of local artisanship at the inn's gallery or the sumptuous Nuevo Southwestern cuisine at Café Abiquiu. | 21120 Highway 84 | www.abiquiuinn.com | 888‐735‐2902 or 505‐685‐4378 | 25 rooms & casitas | Rates: ✦ ✦
Eldorado Hotel & Spa One of the largest hotels in Santa Fe, the Eldorado has earned a solid reputation for its personalized service, superb location (just one block from the plaza) and award‐winning Old House Restaurant. (pool, spa) | 309 West San Francisco Street | www.eldoradohotel.com | 800‐955‐4455 or 505‐988‐ 4455 | 219 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦ ✦
ALBUQUERQUE Hotel map: bit.ly/AlbuquerqueHotels
Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort & Spa 20 minutes north of the city, the Hyatt Regency Tamaya unfolds across 500 acres with a cultural museum, a nationally ranked 18‐hole golf course (watch for hidden arroyos), three swimming pools, equestrian stables and a hot‐air balloon launch. (pool, spa) | 1300 Tuyuna Trail, Santa Ana Pueblo | www.tamaya.hyatt.com | 505‐867‐1234 | 350 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦ ✦
Inn & Spa at Loretto You can find this inn at the end of the Old Santa Fe Trail, where it shares its grounds with the famed Loretto Chapel, just a couple blocks from the plaza. If you’re a wine connoisseur, you’ll appreciate that Wine Spectator Magazine has granted the inn’s Luminaria Restaurant an “Award of Excellence” every year since 2009. (pool, spa) | 211 Old Santa Fe Trail |
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Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm The setting belies the inn's locale (barely 5 miles northwest of downtown); serenity reigns in guest rooms with details such as English flower prints, corner fireplaces and Oaxacan wool rugs. | 4803 Rio Grande Boulevard NW | www.lospoblanos.com | 866‐ 344‐9297 or 505‐344‐9297 | 20 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦ ✦
Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town Ideally situated near Old Town, you can explore the historic district at your leisure and then retreat to the hotel's colorful Mexican cantina for a refreshing beverage or to the Q Bar for live music. (pool) | 800 Rio Grande Boulevard | www.hotelabq.com | 866‐505‐ 7829 or 505‐843‐6300 | 188 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦
Hotel Andaluz This luxurious boutique hotel in the heart of Albuquerque is LEED Gold‐certified for its solar‐ heated hot water system and recycled building materials, plus its high‐desert landscaping, which minimizes irrigation needs. | 125 Second Street NW | www.hotelandaluz.com | 877‐987‐9090 or 505‐242‐ 9090 | 107 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦
Hotel Parq Central Contemporary comfort and historic elegance converge at the Parq Central. Unwind in the hot tub or with a massage in the on‐site therapy room. | 806 Central Avenue SE | www.hotelparqcentral.com | 888‐796‐ 7277 | 74 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦
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SANTA FE & TAOS PREMIERE INNS
Ride the back roads of New Mexico, the land that so inspired Georgia O'Keeffe. Where high desert beauty awaits. And routes perfect for biking. Like the Enchanted Circle towering above Taos. Or the high road to Chimayó. The Jemez Mountains and Bandelier National Monument. A ride, a destination and a vastness you won't easily forget. 17BNMIR1l 9/23/2016
NEVER SUBCONTRACTED We operate our own trips around the globe. That way we control the quality—and we're fully responsible for your great experience.
TWO SUPPORT VANS Excellent trip ‐ the rides were challenging and the scenery was incredible. Our leaders were great guides/hosts and really made everyone feel welcome. The trip was challenging in the areas I wanted it to be (cycling) and easy/stress free when off the bike.
We provide two support vans on all of our trips* so you can count on us to be there when you need us, regardless of the route you take.
THREE LEADERS Our trips have three leaders*, for an average 6:1 guest-to-leader ratio. Guests consistently score our leaders 9.7 out of 10, telling us they make all the difference.
Dale Surbey ‐ Houston, TX
THOUGHTFUL TRIP DESIGN
Click HERE to read more guest reviews
We know how to create exceptional travel experiences, ensuring that you get the most from your trip as it unfolds.
MULTIPLE DAILY ROUTES Being able to choose among several expertly designed routes each day gives you the freedom to enjoy the best of a region at your own pace.
WE CELEBRATE MIXED ABILITIES To accommodate varied activity levels, you need three leaders, two vans, multiple route options, detailed directions, a rating system showing if shuttles are required, and plenty of well-matched riding/hiking companions. *Over 95% of Backroads guests on scheduled trips travel with three Backroads trip leaders or support staff, and two or more vehicles. We even add a fourth leader for meet and move days on some of our most logistically complex trips with the most guests to ensure everyone enjoys the best possible support. On less than 5% of scheduled trips, the number of guests is small enough that we can maintain our trademark high service standards with just two leaders and one van.
6 DAYS, 5 NIGHTS Click HERE for departure dates and pricing details ROUTE RATING LEVELS 2–5 See below for details TO RESERVE YOUR TRIP Sign up online HERE or call 800‐GO‐ACTIVE (462‐2848) or 510‐527‐1555 Open daily 6 a.m.–6 p.m. Pacific time
Click HERE to learn more about the Backroads Quality Index
We want to make sure you're on the right trip and that you have the best experience possible. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.
TRAFFIC & RIDING CONDITIONS While Backroads strives to find routes that are quiet and off the beaten track, that's not always possible in New Mexico and some options on this trip follow more heavily trafficked roads. Of course, you're always welcome to jump in the shuttle to avoid the busier stretches.
Experience the vastness of northern New Mexico as you're accompanied by sagebrush, piñon pine and a painted desert. If you opt for a post‐lunch ride, be sure to take time to visit the resort's hot springs, pools and the mud bath, where slathering yourself in mud and "baking" in the sun is said to remove toxins. This evening we gather for a welcome reception before heading to dinner at the hotel's restaurant. Lodging: Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa
Day 1 On the first day of the trip, meet your Backroads Trip Leaders (the folks in Backroads T‐shirts) at 9 a.m. at La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa (505‐986‐0000), located at 330 East Palace Avenue in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Please arrive dressed in your biking clothes and bring your luggage and a daypack with your rain gear, a swimsuit (if you'd like to take a dip in the hot springs upon arrival at the hotel!) and anything else you may want for today's ride. Your luggage will be transported to our first night's accommodations. Shuttle to Black Mesa Winery 1 Hour Biking Options:
El Duende Route: 16 Miles* (500' elevation gain) Ojo Caliente Route: 33 Miles (1,500') *with shuttle
Welcome to New Mexico, the Land of Enchantment! After meeting, we shuttle into northern New Mexico to Black Mesa Winery, located along the Rio Grande River. Upon arrival, your Backroads Trip Leaders fit your bike and give a brief talk on biking techniques and safety to prepare you for today's ride. After a picnic lunch at the winery, our route takes us from the quaint, local farmlands alongside the Rio Grande to the undulating hills of the surrounding volcanic tuft. If the hot springs at tonight's hotel are calling your name, hop in the shuttle to head directly to our home for the night, Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa. If you're keen to arrive on two wheels, ride the rolling route from El Duende to Ojo Caliente.
Day 2 Biking Options:
Taos Mesa Brewing Co. Route: 33 Miles (2,200' elevation gain) Ojo Caliente to Taos Route: 43 Miles (2,100') St. Francis de Asis Route: 53 Miles (2,400') Listen to the whir of your wheels and take in your magnificent surroundings as you bike the wide open expanses of the Carson Plateau. Cycle over the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge to gaze down a thousand vertical feet into the gorge. Finish the route at Taos Mesa Brewing Co. with a delicious lunch and beer tasting overlooking the Taos Mountains. After lunch, those looking for a unique cultural experience will shuttle to Taos Pueblo, a National Historic Landmark and World Heritage site, where 150 full‐time residents live according to tradition, with no running water or electricity in their homes or businesses. Explore the pueblo, perhaps stopping to enjoy some baked goods fresh from the hornos (outdoor ovens). (Please note: Once in a while, Taos Pueblo closes its doors to visitors—without any warning—to tend to Pueblo business.)
Continue on to El Monte Sagrado, a luxurious eco‐ conscious resort set on lush grounds, just a short walk from Taos Plaza. After settling in at the hotel, feel free to visit the spa or explore the quaint shops and beautiful galleries in Taos before dinner at a nearby restaurant. (Spa treatments are not included in the trip price. Advance reservations are recommended.) Lodging: El Monte Sagrado
Day 3 Biking Options:
Arroyo Seco Loop: 29 Miles (1,500' elevation gain) Red River/Veteran's Memorial Route: 42 Miles* (3,100') Enchanted Circle Route: 90 Miles (6,200')
Day 4
*with shuttle
Biking Options:
Today is your chance to tackle all or part of the famous Enchanted Circle, a scenic byway that curves around the base of 13,161‐foot Wheeler Peak. Start off by heading north to the quaint town of Arroyo Seco, then set your sights on the town of Questa and, eventually, Red River, a former gold‐mining camp surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo peaks. Enjoy lunch in Red River between towering cliffs and ponderosa pine, and perhaps dip your feet in the town river before more climbing ahead.
US Hill Route: 32 Miles* (2,200' elevation gain) Chimayó Route: 53 Miles (4,300') *with shuttle
Feeling warmed up after yesterday's action? Time to ride the High Road to Santa Fe! Put your legs to the test as you pedal up and down across the flanks of the Truchas Mountains, visiting the galleries and sanctuaries of the hidden villages of northern New Mexico along the way. Shortly after you set out, you'll climb to a spectacular viewpoint above Apache Canyon. From here, bike along a series of hills through the laid‐back communities of Las Trampas (7,380 feet) and Truchas (7,910 feet), where Robert Redford's Milagro Beanfield War was filmed. (A shuttle is available to the top of US Hill at 8,390 feet, so don't be daunted!)
Refueled, it's up and over Bobcat Pass followed by an exhilarating downhill into the Moreno Valley and Eagle Nest Lake State Park. If you still have the legs for it, wind your way up Palo Flechado before the final homeward descent through the Fernando de Taos Canyon. If you're considering taking on the complete Enchanted Circle Route, keep in mind that it's an extremely demanding option that doesn't drop below 7,000 feet and includes two steep mountain passes. (The few Backroads guests who complete it describe it as one of the most challenging and rewarding rides of their lives.)
Continue to Chimayó, a tiny village founded after the Spanish re‐conquest of New Mexico in 1680 and renowned for its talented weavers and world‐class chiles. You may enjoy a tasting of New Mexico's state cookie, the bizcocho—typically served during celebrations and Christmas—homemade weekly in the Chavez Gallery. Or consider picking up some varieties of chile molido, the powdered form of the chile, to create your own version of authentic northern New Mexican cuisine!
Back at the resort, consider treating yourself to a massage—you deserve it after today's ride! Tonight, enjoy dinner on your own at the resort or a nearby restaurant. Lodging: El Monte Sagrado
Our next stop here is the Santuario, a 19th‐century adobe church and one of the most revered places in the Southwest. Because the ground where the Santuario sits is thought to have miraculous healing powers, you'll likely see pilgrims in a dimly lit back
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room kneeling over an opening in the floor, scooping the dirt out, and rubbing it on their arms, legs and faces. Crutches and leg braces discarded by the cured line the walls. This evening we settle into Four Seasons Rancho Encantado, ensconced in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and offering amazing vistas of the Jemez Mountains. Dinner tonight is at your leisure at the hotel. Lodging: Four Seasons Rancho Encantado
Day 5 Shuttle to Tsankawi 1 Hour Biking Options:
Tsankawi to Bandalier Route: 24 Miles (1,900' elevation gain) Valles Caldera Route: 42 Miles (4,100')
Day 6
Walking & Hiking Options:
Santa Fe Loop: 14 Miles (1,100' elevation gain) Four Seasons Route: 23 Miles (1,800')
Biking Options:
Tsankawi Ruins Route: 1.6 Miles (200') Bandelier Ruins Route: 2.6 Miles (200')
If sleeping in and enjoying a leisurely morning at the hotel isn't on your agenda, hop on your bike one last time and enjoy views of the Sangre de Cristo, Jemez and Sandia Mountains on a ride through Santa Fe's outlying neighborhoods. Gaze at those distant peaks and congratulate yourself for conquering some of them earlier this week!
Shuttle to Santa Fe 1 Hour
Following breakfast we shuttle into the foothills of the Jemez Mountains to do a short hike through Tsankawi Prehistoric Ruins, part of Bandelier National Monument. Next we take a quick, hilly ride into the town of Los Alamos where we enjoy our final Backroads picnic.
Continue pedaling to Canyon Road, one of the oldest roads in the United States, once part of a 13th‐century American Indian trail leading from the lower Rio Grande Valley to Taos. Today the historic byway hosts an active community of artists and craftspeople with shops, galleries and restaurants lining the street.
After lunch, take the opportunity to visit the Bradbury Science Museum, where you can learn about the WWII Manhattan Project, or continue riding into the Jemez Mountains which are filled with ponderosa pine forests and sweeping views of the valleys below. If you would like even more miles, head up to the Valles Caldera, a massive volcanic crater now protected as a national preserve.
After soaking up the local color, return to the hotel to freshen up before we sit down to a farewell lunch. Please see "Arriving & Departing" for end‐of‐trip logistics.
Our ride ends at Bandelier National Monument, where you'll discover an incredible collection of Ancient Pueblo ruins set against the sheer walls of Frijoles Canyon. Examine the remarkable talus homes built into the volcanic tuff, and ascend to the Alcove House, perched 140 feet above the canyon floor and accessible only by ladders.
KEEPING YOU UP TO DATE We are always seeking opportunities to enhance this itinerary. We’ll be certain to notify you of any important changes prior to departure; other changes may be communicated on trip by your leaders.
Tonight we toast our week together over a memorable meal at the Four Seasons' Terra Restaurant. Lodging: Four Seasons Rancho Encantado
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Trip Accommodations PREMIERE INNS*
At Backroads we understand that you have your own idea of the "perfect" trip—the right mix of being active, discovering new cultures and natural wonders, and having time to relax. Our trips are designed to be flexible, giving you the freedom to experience the best of the region the way YOU want. Feel like you're ready to go, go, go? We can show you the way! Want some downtime or prefer to head out on your own? No problem! Your Trip Leaders will make sure to tell you the best days to take time for yourself (if you want it) without feeling like you're missing out. So feel free to shift gears and make it your day!
1 Night (above ‐ Casual Inn) Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa Blending seamlessly into the cliffs, this remote desert oasis features ancient mineral springs believed to be sacred by American Indians. (pool, spa) | Ojo Caliente | ojospa.com | 800‐222‐9162 or 505‐583‐2233
2 Nights El Monte Sagrado With a warm inviting style inspired by American Indian and global cultures, this elegant haven is nestled in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, just outside of Taos. (spa) | Taos | www.elmontesagrado.com | 888‐213‐4419 or 575‐758‐ 3502
2 Nights Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Surrounded by the serene high‐desert landscape overlooking the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, this elegant resort combines luxurious amenities with distinct Southwestern style. (pool, spa) | Santa Fe | www.fourseasons.com/santafe | 505‐946‐5888 *With 1 Casual Inn night at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa
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downtown Albuquerque and Santa Fe Monday through Friday, with limited departures on weekends. The fare is approximately $10 and the trip takes 1–1½ hours. A free shuttle operates on weekdays between the Albuquerque airport and the downtown train depot; on Saturdays, public bus service is available.
Arriving & Departing After reviewing the following information, please inform us of your arrival and departure plans on your Personal Information Form.
MEETING TIME & LOCATION
Sandia Shuttle Express (www.sandiashuttle.com; 888‐ 775‐5696 or 505‐474‐5696) offers shuttles from the Albuquerque airport to Santa Fe for $30 per person one‐way or $55 round‐trip. Shuttles leave the airport every hour from 8:45 a.m. until 8:45 p.m. daily, with additional departures at 10:45 p.m. and 11:45 p.m. Reservations are required. Meet the shuttle at the check‐in counter located inside the airport on the baggage claim level across from Southwest Airline's baggage carousel No. 3. Travel time to Santa Fe is about 1¼ hours. Shuttles returning to the Albuquerque airport from Santa Fe depart every hour from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. The trip takes 1½–2 hours, depending on the number of pickups. Please call Sandia to schedule your pick‐up location and time.
On the first day of the trip, meet your Backroads Trip Leaders (the folks in Backroads T‐shirts) at 9 a.m. at La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa (505‐986‐0000), located at 330 East Palace Avenue in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Please arrive dressed in your biking clothes and bring your luggage and a daypack with your rain gear, a swimsuit (if you'd like to take a dip in the hot springs upon arrival at the hotel!) and anything else you may want for today's ride. Your luggage will be transported to our first night's accommodations.
CONCLUSION OF THE TRIP The trip ends around 2 p.m. at La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa. Sandia Shuttle Express provides transportation to the Albuquerque airport and can meet you at the Posada de Santa Fe upon request (not included in the trip price). See below for more information.
Capital City Cab (www.capitalcitycab.com; 505‐438‐ 0000) offers taxi service between Albuquerque and Santa Fe for approximately $165.
FLIGHT ARRANGEMENTS
TRANSPORTATION FROM SANTA FE’S AIRPORT TO DOWNTOWN SANTA FE
This trip starts and ends in Santa Fe. We recommend flying into Albuquerque International Sunport (airport code: ABQ; www.abqsunport.com) and using one of the transportation options below to get to Santa Fe. Alternatively you may be able to fly directly to Santa Fe Municipal Airport (SAF; www.santafenm.gov/airport); United Airlines and American Airlines offer limited service to Santa Fe from Denver, Dallas/Fort Worth and Los Angeles.
Roadrunner Shuttle (roadrunnershuttleandcharter.com; 505‐424‐3367) meets private and charter flights at Santa Fe Municipal Airport and can provide service to La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa for about $20 per person. Call to inquire about their regular shuttle service schedule; please make your reservations in advance. Capital City Cab also offers taxi service between the Santa Fe airport and downtown Santa Fe for approximately $50.
For help arranging air transport to and from your Backroads trip, please work with your own travel agent or you may choose to work with the Backroads Travel Desk at Dimensions in Travel. Their expert travel advisors are ready to share their insiders' knowledge of Backroads and our worldwide destinations. These professional agents are available to assist you with any of your travel needs. Call 800‐ GO‐ACTIVE (462‐2848) to be connected with an advisor. Please note that consulting or ticketing fees may apply, depending on the services requested. The Backroads Travel Desk at Dimensions in Travel is open Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Pacific time.
DRIVING TO LA POSADA DE SANTA FE RESORT & SPA FROM THE ALBUQUERQUE AIRPORT Santa Fe is located about 60 miles (1–1½ hours) north of Albuquerque off Interstate 25. • Travel on I‐25 north approximately 50 minutes to exit 282 A, US‐84 N/St. Francis Drive. • Follow St. Francis Drive to Cerrillos Road, and turn right.
Rail Runner Express (www.nmrailrunner.com; 866‐ 795‐7245) offers regular rail service between
• Stay in the right‐hand lane, and turn right on Paseo de Peralta.
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• Follow Paseo de Peralta, and turn right on East Palace Avenue. La Posada de Santa Fe will be immediately on your right.
Destination Details CLIMATE
Registration parking is next to the stone house on your left. You may be able to leave your car at La Posada de Santa Fe for the duration of the trip for a fee; please call ahead to see if they have space. Because space is limited in the hotel's parking lot, it's possible that the staff will need to move your car to another secure, nearby lot while you're on your Backroads trip. If the hotel cannot accommodate you, your leaders can make arrangements at one of several public parking lots in the area; typical rates are around $10 per day.
In late spring through early fall, daytime highs in Santa Fe and Taos are usually pleasantly warm; however, evenings and early mornings can be cold, with temperatures sometimes dropping by 30 degrees or more. Expect cooler temperatures at higher elevations, with the possibility of frost in the early morning. Remember that weather conditions in the mountains are very unpredictable, and it could rain—or even hail —at any time, bringing cooler temperatures. It’s essential that you come prepared with quality rain gear and plenty of warm bicycling clothes for early‐ morning rides.
Please note that a car isn't necessary if you are staying at La Posada or any of the hotels in downtown Santa Fe, as many of Santa Fe's main attractions are within walking distance of our recommended hotels.
Taos Average:
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
High °F
39
44
51
61
70
81
Low °F
7
14
21
28
37
45
Precip. in
0.7
0.6
0.8
0.8
1.2
0.9
Average:
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
High °F
85
82
75
65
51
41
Low °F
51
49
42
31
20
10
Precip. in.
1.6
1.8
1.3
1.1
0.7
0.7
Average:
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
High °F
43
48
54
64
74
84
Low °F
19
22
26
34
44
53
Precip. in
0.6
0.8
0.7
0.8
1.2
1.1
Average:
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
High °F
87
84
81
68
52
45
Low °F
58
56
50
39
24
19
Precip. in.
2.4
2.4
1.5
1.1
0.7
0.7
Santa Fe
PRICES & SCHEDULES All prices and schedules were current at the time of printing, but are subject to change at any time.
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Getting Active for Your Trip
CONDITIONING TIPS Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. We know your pace may vary from one day to the next—and your traveling companions' may differ somewhat from yours. So we present a range of mileage options, and each day you decide exactly what and how much you want to do. Before your trip, we suggest biking regularly and hitting a few hills whenever you can. Review the route options in the daily itinerary for the range of mileages offered on this trip. But mostly, just show up and have fun!
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Where to Stay Before & After Your Trip
The routes on this trip are rated Levels 2–5.
For help making hotel reservations for before and after your Backroads trip: • Work with your own professional travel agent. • Contact the Backroads Travel Desk at Dimensions in Travel by calling 800‐GO‐ACTIVE (462‐2848), Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Pacific time. Please note that consulting or ticketing fees may apply, depending on the services requested. • Book directly with the hotel or through a discount website. If you plan on extending your stay at our first night's hotel before the trip starts or our last night's hotel when the trip ends, let the hotel reservations agent know that you're traveling with Backroads; that way you may be able to avoid changing rooms.
Review the "Route Rating" section on the web for more details on daily route options.
La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa in Santa Fe is our meeting location on Day 1 and drop‐off location on Day 6. See the following for more information on this hotel The following is a selection of recommended properties that span a range of prices, amenities and locations, and are listed by price in descending order. Refer to the Hotel Room Rate Guide for the starting double‐occupancy rates, which were accurate at time of printing. Note that rates are subject to change and some hotels may require a minimum stay. Book early, especially during peak travel season!
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Hotel map: bit.ly/SantaFeHotels
www.innatloretto.com | 866‐582‐1646 or 800‐727‐5531 | 134 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦ ✦
Inn of the Five Graces
Hotel Santa Fe
SANTA FE
Located on the edge of downtown Santa Fe—a 15‐ minute walk from the plaza—the only Native American‐owned hotel in the city radiates Southwest style in its furnishings, fabrics and cuisine. (pool, spa) | 1501 Paseo de Peralta | www.hotelsantafe.com | 855‐825‐9876 or 505‐982‐1200 | 128 rooms & suites (plus 35 at The Hacienda) | Rates: ✦ ✦
The Orient meets the Old West in the individually decorated guest rooms and suites of this romantic inn. Rates include breakfast and other extras. A Relais & Châteaux member. (spa) | 150 DeVargas Street | www.fivegraces.com | 866‐992‐0957 or 505‐ 992‐0957 | 24 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
La Fonda on the Plaza Located directly on the plaza and across from the Palace of the Governors, La Fonda is the only New Mexico hotel on the National Trust’s Historic Hotels of America list. | 100 East San Francisco Street | www.lafondasantafe.com | 800‐523‐5002 or 505‐982‐ 5511 | 174 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
Inn on the Alameda
La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa
ABIQUIU
One of the plushest hotels in Santa Fe, La Posada showcases an elegant Spanish Colonial décor complete with handcrafted stone mantels, viga and latilla ceilings, tiled floors and opulent fabrics. | 330 East Palace Avenue | www.laposadadesantafe.com | 855‐278‐5276 or 505‐986‐0000 | 158 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
The rustic town of Abiquiu was Georgia O'Keeffe's home for several decades and the area that inspired many of her best‐known paintings. If you would like the opportunity to visit O'Keeffe's home or the Ghost Ranch Education and Retreat Center, you might consider a stay at the Abiquiu Inn before or after your Backroads trip. Tours of O'Keeffe's home and studio start from the inn Tuesday–Saturday (reservations are required). Abiquiu is about a one‐hour drive from Santa Fe.
If you’re craving the true flavor of Santa Fe in a warm intimate environment, you’ll love this charming adobe inn. | 303 East Alameda | www.innonthealameda.com | 888‐984‐2121 or 505‐ 984‐2121 | 71 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦
Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi Winning high praise from industry experts including Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure, this four‐star luxury boutique hotel is a testament to Southwestern elegance and style. Travel + Leisure World's Best. | 13 Washington Avenue | www.innoftheanasazi.com | 888‐767‐3966 or 505‐988‐3030 | 58 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
Hotel map: bit.ly/AbiquiuHotels
Abiquiu Inn A gem in the midst of New Mexico's splendor, this rustic inn features beautiful casitas inspired by the Southwest landscape. Don't miss the displays of local artisanship at the inn's gallery or the sumptuous Nuevo Southwestern cuisine at Café Abiquiu. | 21120 Highway 84 | www.abiquiuinn.com | 888‐735‐2902 or 505‐685‐4378 | 25 rooms & casitas | Rates: ✦ ✦
Eldorado Hotel & Spa One of the largest hotels in Santa Fe, the Eldorado has earned a solid reputation for its personalized service, superb location (just one block from the plaza) and award‐winning Old House Restaurant. (pool, spa) | 309 West San Francisco Street | www.eldoradohotel.com | 800‐955‐4455 or 505‐988‐ 4455 | 219 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦ ✦
ALBUQUERQUE Hotel map: bit.ly/AlbuquerqueHotels
Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort & Spa 20 minutes north of the city, the Hyatt Regency Tamaya unfolds across 500 acres with a cultural museum, a nationally ranked 18‐hole golf course (watch for hidden arroyos), three swimming pools, equestrian stables and a hot‐air balloon launch. (pool, spa) | 1300 Tuyuna Trail, Santa Ana Pueblo | www.tamaya.hyatt.com | 505‐867‐1234 | 350 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦ ✦
Inn & Spa at Loretto You can find this inn at the end of the Old Santa Fe Trail, where it shares its grounds with the famed Loretto Chapel, just a couple blocks from the plaza. If you’re a wine connoisseur, you’ll appreciate that Wine Spectator Magazine has granted the inn’s Luminaria Restaurant an “Award of Excellence” every year since 2009. (pool, spa) | 211 Old Santa Fe Trail |
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Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm The setting belies the inn's locale (barely 5 miles northwest of downtown); serenity reigns in guest rooms with details such as English flower prints, corner fireplaces and Oaxacan wool rugs. | 4803 Rio Grande Boulevard NW | www.lospoblanos.com | 866‐ 344‐9297 or 505‐344‐9297 | 20 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦ ✦
Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town Ideally situated near Old Town, you can explore the historic district at your leisure and then retreat to the hotel's colorful Mexican cantina for a refreshing beverage or to the Q Bar for live music. (pool) | 800 Rio Grande Boulevard | www.hotelabq.com | 866‐505‐ 7829 or 505‐843‐6300 | 188 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦
Hotel Andaluz This luxurious boutique hotel in the heart of Albuquerque is LEED Gold‐certified for its solar‐ heated hot water system and recycled building materials, plus its high‐desert landscaping, which minimizes irrigation needs. | 125 Second Street NW | www.hotelandaluz.com | 877‐987‐9090 or 505‐242‐ 9090 | 107 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦
Hotel Parq Central Contemporary comfort and historic elegance converge at the Parq Central. Unwind in the hot tub or with a massage in the on‐site therapy room. | 806 Central Avenue SE | www.hotelparqcentral.com | 888‐796‐ 7277 | 74 rooms & suites | Rates: ✦ ✦
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