New Mexico is known for gorgeous lighting with epic sunsets of red, orange and purple blazing through the sky. Vast open spaces dotted with cedar trees, juniper, and sage brush in varying shades of green framed by mountains make you feel as though you’re in a painting. Adobe architecture against bright blue sky, and the smell of burning piñon set the mood to be swept away. It’s no wonder so many artists have chosen the state as a geographical muse.
Taos is a quirky remote northern town with a population of about 6000 people 7000 ft above sea level. You have to either drive Route 68, take the scenic High Road, or fly into their tiny airport via a small plane. The town is situated at the foot of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the Rio Grande River cuts through offering beautiful views and a fun ride for those who like to play outside. Sustainable homes known as Earthships, historical sites like the Taos Pueblo where people have lived for hundreds of years, a plaza for shopping, cute neighborhoods to explore, a wealth of outdoor activities, and food worth the drive north from Santa Fe are part of what Taos has to offer.
Here are five things to do while you’re there.
El Monte Sagrado Hotel
El Monte Sagrado Hotel is the place to stay. A sparkling ceiling with a spiral motif captivates you as you walk in the lobby and from there it just gets more interesting. The unique and eclectic atmosphere of El Monte Sagrado makes other hotels seem completely boring by contrast. The magic is in the little details that went into design and a tranquil natural setting. Even basic rooms are gorgeous with comfortable cowhide furnishings, turquoise studded skulls above the fireplaces, patios, and sunken bathtubs surrounded by smooth white stones. The whole place radiates a soothing and artful energy. Lush, green grounds with waterfalls and meandering pathways create an almost meditative ambiance and a grotto-like pool offers a great place to unwind after an active day in the mountains.
Copyright © 2014 by A Luxury Travel Blog. This article was written by Leah DeAngelis and originally published on aluxurytravelblog.com
*Image of Taos, New Mexico via Shutterstock
