Santa Fe Smart Splurges

The region's most lavish accommodation actually lies between Santa Fe and Taos, near the small city of Espanola, and thus makes a good base for exploring the region as a whole. New Mexico's only Relaix & Chateaux property spreads over 225 secluded acres at the base of a sandstone mesa and consists of just 15 rooms and suites. The units closest to the main building open to a charming courtyard, but several others are a short walk away and have private entrances, offering complete seclusion. These spacious units are done with museum-quality Mexican and Southwestern furnishings; most have wood-burning fireplaces in the traditional kiva-style. A small restaurant turns out superb, innovative Southwestern cuisine open by reservation to guests and the public. When you're looking to get away from it all, this is your best option.

Award-winning Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa, 50 miles north of Santa Fe, includes 6 natural hot springs deemed sacred by New Mexican tribes. Not surprisingly, the resort is known for its sustainable practices and restorative powers, with pools to fight fatigue, arthritis symptoms, and more. Accommodations include a wide array of places to rest your weary head including cottages, suites and even your very own private home. Enjoy tantalizing Southwestern dishes like Yucatan barbecued salmon with roasted corn and black bean salsa at the resort’s Artesian restaurant.

Designed to resemble the famous Taos Pueblo, this 134-room property features a pool, spa, fine dining at its Baleen Santa Fe restaurant, and art galleries on its lower level.

There's truly nothing in Santa Fe – or even the Southwest – quite like this Far East-meets-Wild West boutique property of 22 whimsically decorated, opulent rooms and suites. The spacious units here are filled with colorful mosaic-tile murals, traditional kiva-style fireplaces, decadent Asian and Middle Eastern fabrics, ornate beds with hand-stitched headboards, and fully outfitted kitchens with marble counters that combine function with form. Rates are a bit steep, but include all kinds of extras like walking tours, lavish breakfasts, afternoon wine-and-cheese spreads, gourmet snacks in your room, and even staff gratuities. The inn is set along Santa Fe's oldest street, a narrow lane right behind the state capitol building and just a five-minute walk from the many galleries and shops of the Plaza. The inn's restaurant serves delicious sandwiches and small plates while a warm and efficient staff completes the experience.

Consider this New American restaurant a must. White linen décor and award-winning plates...more

Head to this neighborhood tavern and rock out to live music, great food, and some of the best flamenco dancing in the nation (Wednesdays) courtesy of internationally renowned Maria Martinez and her protégés.

Mingle with serious, deep-pocketed art collectors at the greatest concentration of galleries in the world. Less expensive deals can also be found, and it's certainly free to stroll and window-shop on this quiet, colorful stretch.