Revealing the Best Hotels in Santa Fe, New Mexico: Where Southwestern Charm Meets Luxury
In New Mexico, there is one place everyone most wants to call “The City Different.” It’s a site that spells class with its historical and artistic traditions, wrapped in breathtaking beauty. Located at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the city of Santa Fe is distinguished by its adobe architecture, world-class galleries, and the combination of Native American, Spanish, and Mexican Cultures. If you are visiting for the amazing art, history, or outdoor adventures, you will need to make sure to find the best accommodations in order to explore this charming city. In the article, we will highlight some of the best hotels in Santa Fe, New Mexico, from 5-star resorts to the most charming boutique inns that showcase a taste of southwestern hospitality.
La Fonda on the Plaza is legendary among Santa Fe’s hotels and right in the very heart of historic downtown. Since 1922, this iconic property has stood on the Santa Fe Plaza with its own Pueblo Revival–style architecture, colorful decor, and true Southwestern charm. Every one of the rooms and suites at La Fonda features hand-painted furniture, original artwork, and traditional textiles that adorn the interior of this warm, inviting hotel.
Those staying at La Fonda are welcome to relax at their rooftop bar while enjoying great views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, or at its La Plazuela restaurant, known for its fine New Mexican and Spanish fusion cuisine. Its location makes it just the base from which to explore the best of Santa Fe, not least the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, the Palace of the Governors and the myriad art galleries throughout the city.
2. Inn and Spa at Five Graces
The Inn of the Five Graces is Santa Fe’s most unique boutique hotel for the really intimate and luxurious. Situated in the historic Barrio de Analco, the hotel combines Southwestern and Middle Eastern influences in a style that borders on the exotic. Each room in this hotel is an absolute luxury, done up in bright colors, intricate weavings, and hand-crafted furniture. The name of the lodge follows the five graces, derived from Tibetan philosophy that deal with sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste, reflected in the sensory-rich environment of the hotel.
The Inn of the Five Graces offers guests quiet courtyards, trickling fountains, and lush gardens to step away from it all. There is also a world-class spa for which treatments have been inspired by ancient healing traditions. All of the ingredients are there to make a stay unforgettable in Santa Fe: service that is quite attentive, very luxurious amenities, and stunning decor.
3. Hotel Santa Fe
This is a very special place— Santa Fe’s only Native American-owned hotel, where visitors experience unique and enriching local culture. This Santa Fe hotel is owned by the Picuris Pueblo and features Native American art and decor throughout each room and public space. Various rooms, suites, and casitas constitute the accommodations, all tastefully appointed with a regard for the rich heritage that encapsulates this area.
Hotel Santa Fe is nestled in the heart of the dynamic Railyard District and just a short walk to art galleries, restaurants, and the Santa Fe Farmers Market. Their Amaya Restaurant offers contemporary Southwestern cuisine with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. Guests can relax either by the outdoor pool or whirlpool or visit their spa for one of their Native-inspired therapies.
4. Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi
The Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi is a luxury boutique hotel that personifies the essence of Santa Fe and is only steps from the Plaza. It fuses contemporary and traditional Southwestern design elements, with rooms and suites tastefully done in hand-hewn wood furnishings and kiva fireplaces, accented by original Native American artistry. The atmosphere created by this marriage of styles is at once refined and cozy.
The-contemporary Anasazi Restaurant remains one of the great places to eat in Santa Fe. Regionally inspiring cuisine is offered in this restaurant, which adds its own contemporary flair. Craft cocktails are available in the Anasazi Bar and Lounge, an intimate setting, or a massage in the privacy of your room. With its deluxe amenities in the heart of Santa Fe, the Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi provides the ultimate travel experience to any sophisticated traveler.
5. Inn and Spa at Loretto
A stay at this Inn and Spa at Loretto is a typically Santa Fe kind of holiday. This architectural masterpiece is done in the adobe style of the Taos Pueblo and hence makes for one of the most photographed buildings in the city. The 136 rooms range from cozy to expansive suites, all decorated with a Southwestern flair and modern comforts.
Known for its full-service spa, The Inn and Spa at Loretto leaves no stone unturned in providing a collection of treatments inspired by local ingredients and healing practices. Dine well at Luminaria Restaurant & Patio, where the emphasis is on local flavors and fresh, regional ingredients. Add to this its setting, within easy distance to the Loretto Chapel and a relaxed stroll to the Plaza, and the epitome of Santa Fe is at hand.
6. Drury Plaza Hotel in Santa Fe
If you’re searching for a nice blend of contemporary amenities and historic aura, the Drury Plaza Hotel in Santa Fe is the right one. Administered in a restored, grand old building, the hotel blends Spanish-Colonial architecture with a contemporary touch. Quite spacious, its rooms are comfortably furnished with up-to-date pieces while still throwing in niceties such as microwaves and mini-fridges.
Beyond breakfast hot off the griddle, evening receptions with drinks and snacks, and Wi-Fi, Drury Plaza Hotel offers a host of complimentary amenities. Guests could lounge by the rooftop pool, with its panoramic views of the city and mountains, or be out exploring nearby attractions such as the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi and the New Mexico Museum of Art.
7. El Rey Court
For visitors seeking to feel a retro vibe with modern amenities in play, the alternative presented at El Rey Court is a rather unique and hip one. Originally built in 1936 as a classic motor court, El Rey Court underwent a transformation into a hip boutique hotel that maintains its vintage feel but with upgraded amenities. Mid-century modern design with Southwestern touches informed the fun, eclectic atmosphere of the rooms.
It features beautiful gardens, a year-round heated pool, hot tubs, outdoor fire pits, and an on-site bar called La Reina, which serves craft cocktails and local beers—very attractive to both guests and locals. On the main stretch of old Route 66, El Rey Court embodies the true unique styled experience, old-school Santa Fe.
8. Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encanto Santa Fe
Experience the ultimate secluded ultra-luxury stay at Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe. It’s located minutes away from the city and spread across 57 acres of undisturbed high desert landscape with stunning vistas and peace. Very nicely spacious casita-style accommodations are well-appointed with private terraces, wood-burning fireplaces, and deep soaking tubs.
Their Tierra Santa Spa specializes in treatments centered on the health traditions of the Native Americans, with yoga and meditation classes. Guests can also dine in their on-site restaurant, Terra, featuring gourmet cuisine using local ingredients. Other outdoor activities offered in this resort include hiking, horseback riding, and guided cultural tours. This makes it an ideal location for those wanting to surround themselves with beautiful outdoors and culture in Santa Fe.
Conclusion
Santa Fe, New Mexico, is undoubtedly a place like no other, with history, culture, and natural beauty woven together in one of the most unique cities in the world. Its hotels reflect the uniqueness, each in its own manner, balancing Southwestern charm with modern-day luxury. Whether you’re looking for a historic hotel in the heart of downtown, a boutique inn with a cultural twist, or a pampering resort in a serene setting, the best hotels in Santa Fe help ensure that every kind of traveler can find an ideal place to rest their heads. Consider these top accommodations as you plan your visit to this enchanted city, to ensure that your stay is as memorable as the destination itself. The best hotels in Santa Fe promise much more than just comfort and luxury; they truly connect one to this remarkable city.
