Traveling into Northern New Mexico from Southern New Mexico always draws a similar response, “It’s so different.” The changes in geography, cuisine and culture are often so striking it feels as if I’ve entered another country. After driving through bustling Albuquerque and Santa Fe (take the new bypass for a quicker route) I meandered through low, flat valleys leading to a winding, river-carved canyon that eventually opened up to a vista of Taos settled against the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. Outlined by cottonwoods and oaks whose leaves in the fall are aflame against the blue sky and the golden fields surrounding them, the town has maintained a small-time feel, as if you could never be “lost” within its boundaries.
Resting my head at The Historic Taos Inn in the heart of the city, the atmosphere at this establishment emanates comfort and a sense of welcome. Located across the street from the central plaza, the Inn is within walking distance of shops, galleries, museums and fine dining. Established in 1936, the Inn is a mecca for artists. Every three months it hosts an art exhibit of famous local artists and the on-site Adobe Bar, quite literally known as “the living room of Taos”, is usually crowded during the evenings with local artists enjoying first class margaritas and mix of eclectic live entertainment. The oldest part of the Inn dates back to the 1660s and the lobby fountain sits in place of one of Taos’ original main wells. The guest rooms radiate Taos style with exposed wooden beams, and most have working kiva fireplaces. With the hotel’s newest extensive renovations, marking the Inn’s 70th Anniversary, the bedrooms and bathrooms are both spacious and luxurious and some rooms now include flat screen TVs and free high speed Internet.
Joined with the Inn is Doc Martin’s Restaurant. Originally the home and office of Doc T.P. Martin, Taos County’s first and lone doctor for over forty years, the former living room (now a cozy dining area) hosted the founding of the original Taos Society of Artists. Today this restaurant creates elegant American cuisine as well as dishes highlighting the best of Southwestern flavors. Winner of numerous wine and food awards over the years, Doc Martin’s menu changes seasonally but always serves Doc’s famous chile rellenos and offers over four hundred wine selections. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner Doc Martin’s is a perfect beginning to a day trip or an enchanting evening experience.
A leisurely stroll around the plaza and the streets of Taos is a pleasure. With art and jewelry galleries in abundance I wanted to whip out my wallet more often than not, but within minutes of the Inn are sites that shouldn’t be missed while in the area. One of those places is The Taos Pueblo World Heritage Site. Set in the foreground of snow-dusted peaks, this multi-storied structure remains one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the nation. A short drive out of town is the Taos Ski Basin. Boasting world class skiing and accommodations, the valley is guarded by Wheeler Peak, as it rises into the clouds at over 13,000 feet. Thrill seekers will also enjoy the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge; the nation’s second highest suspension bridge, I held on tight to the railings as cars and trucks drove across, whipping winds around me as I peered at the river 650 feet below. San Francisco de Así mission at Ranchos de Taos remains one of the most photographed and painted structures and is worth a visit, and for a rare, in-depth glimpse into New Mexico’s past visit La Hacienda de los Martinez built in 1804. It was built during the late Spanish Colonial period and is one of the few remaining New Mexico style "Great Houses."
For centuries the magic of Taos has inspired the spiritual, the artistic, the everyday man. I do believe it will continue to do so forever.
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