Weekend in Taos, N.M., one of three ways: on a budget, spending a bit more, or when the getaway calls for a splurge.
Trip tips: This high-desert town set within the Sangre de Cristo Mountains is noted for its rich history and culture. The town's red rock canyons, clear blue skies and snow-capped mountains have drawn and inspired writers, sculptors and painters since 1899.
Take the High Road from Santa Fe to Taos. It takes much longer than the highway route (90 vs. 70 miles), but the scenery is worth the detour as the backcountry road winds along stunning scenery and through Kit Carson National Forest. Stop on the way to or from Taos (some say the north-to-south route is even more stunning) at art galleries, ancient villages, the historic Nambe Trading Post, and the Estrella Del Norte Vineyard. Download driving tours at http://taos.org/trip-ideas/day-trips?/item/14/The-High-Road-Between-Santa-Fe-and-Taos.
Getting there: One-way rates to Santa Fe from $182 and from $150 to Albuquerque (21- and 14-day advance notice, respectively) on United Airlines connecting service. Nonstop service on Delta to Albuquerque from $425 (21-day advance notice); lower during nationwide sale periods.
BUDGET
Stay: Located in one of Taos' oldest neighborhoods, Burch Street Casitas is a private compound located within a 10-minute walk of historic Taos Plaza. Each private casita features a king bed, cross-beamed pine ceilings, well-appointed kitchen, living and dining area, wood burning fireplace and a private patio. Rates of $110-$130 require a four-night minimum. Call for availability on shorter stays. 310 Burch St., 575-737-9038, www.casitasintaos.com.
Eat: Family-owned Orlando's New Mexican Cafe is a hot spot on weekends as soon as the doors open for dinner. But waiting for the meal can be fun warming up around an outdoor fire pit. Mains to $11.25. 1114 Don Juan Valdez Lane, 575-751-1450, www.facebook.com/OrlandosNewMexicanCafe.
Experience: The Rio Grande del Norte National Monument is over 300,000 acres of public land and comprised of rugged, open plains and cut by steep canyons. The monument provides a wildlife corridor between the two mountain ranges, and the area draws visitors for hiking, fishing and whitewater rafting. The Wild Rivers Backcountry Byway is a lovely 13-mile closed-loop road within the monument with numerous places to stop for hikes (all abilities) or a picnic. $3 per vehicle. Questa, 575-758-8851, http://taos.org/outdoors/rio-grande-del-norte.
MODERATE
Stay: Three adobe buildings make up Hacienda del Sol, a bed-and-breakfast located a mile north of town and adjoining 95,000 acres of Pueblo land. Beautifully landscaped gardens and two romantic courtyards offer the best views of sacred Taos Mountain. Guest rooms feature original art, antique handcrafted furniture, handcrafted quilts, down comforters, robes and firewood for wood-burning kivas (select rooms). Rates average $170-$190, including breakfast, afternoon sweets and beverages and health club for tennis, indoor/outdoor swimming and yoga classes. 109 Mabel Dodge Lane, 575-758-0287, www.taoshaciendadelsol.com.
Eat: Push past the dodgy exterior of La Cueva Cafe to a tasteful dining room serving authentic Mexican dishes. Beyond the nachos, rellenos and burritos selections are salmon, shrimp and red trout entrees; to $14. 135 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur, 575-758-7001, www.lacuevacafe.com.
Experience: The multi-storied adobe buildings at Taos Pueblo have been continuously inhabited for over 1,000 years. Following a 30-minute guided tour highlighting the history and cultures of the pueblo, you're free to explore and interact with the residents and artisans, $16. San Juan Feast Day, held June 24, honors and celebrates this patron saint with traditional dance, food, and arts and crafts vendors. 120 Veterans Highway, 575-758-1028, http://taospueblo.com.
SPLURGE
Stay: Just two blocks from Taos Plaza, the 215 year-old Inn on La Loma Plaza is a hacienda tucked behind high adobe walls and situated in a quiet park setting with mountain views and gardens. The restored property is appointed with fountains, antiques, local art, a seasonal outdoor pool and hot tub, and an exercise room. Guest rooms feature high ceilings, kiva fireplaces and handcrafted furniture. Rates from $220 include a gourmet breakfast and afternoon snacks, beverages, coffee and cookies. 315 Ranchitos Road, 575-758-1717, www.vacationtaos.com.
Eat: Enjoy regionally inspired rustic comfort food blended with Spanish and Moorish influences at El Meze Restaurant. Dine in cozy art-filled rooms or with mountain views outdoors. Tapas, $8-$15; mains, $17-$46. 1017 Paseo Del Pueblo Norte, 575-751-3337, www.elmeze.com.
Experience: Hike and explore the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains or the Rio Grande Gorge (where desert and mountain meet at the bottom of a volcanic rift 800 feet deep) with an experienced naturalist guide and a woolly companion — a llama. Gentle and sure-footed llamas carry the fresh ingredients on the "Take a Llama to Lunch" day hike. Lunch is prepared in a pristine wilderness setting. All ages and fitness levels accommodated. $125. 1-800-758-5262, www.llamaadventures.com.
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