Southwestern Suites Overlooking Snowy Sangre de Cristo Mountains

Archaeologists use the word Anasazi to refer to the ancient Pueblo peoples of the American southwest, whose presence in the area dates back to the 12th century BCE. The Lodge at Santa Fe pays homage to the region's early inhabitants in its Anasazi suites, which feature floor coverings and wall hangings sporting intricate diamond patterns and a clay-colored palette calling to mind traditional Navajo blankets.

Southwestern style pervades the lodge. Walls bear original artwork and photography reflecting the cultural DNA of Santa Fe, a blend of traditions derived from indigenous peoples and the influence of colonial Spain. Each Anasazi suite is outfitted with a king-size bed, and the Anasazi Kiva suites boast a natural-wood four-poster bed, a jacuzzi tub, and a separate dining area. Some rooms also offer private balconies and wood-burning fireplaces.

Los Cuates New Mexican Restaurant serves up signature salsas and chilis as part of authentic regional dishes, including red or green chili rellenos served with sopapillas and honey. In the dining room, traditional pottery is displayed on a distinctive wall made of slabs of layered rock. The Lodge at Santa Fe Bar pours cocktails, beer, and wine, which can be enjoyed on the outdoor balcony in front of harmonious sunset views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains or discordant views of cowboys engaging cacti in fisticuffs.

Santa Fe: Award-Winning Dining & Mountain Splendor

For an average of 325 days a year, New Mexico’s state capital sparkles beneath sunshine and clear blue skies. It's perfect weather for touring the city’s numerous museums, art galleries, and restaurants. The latter earned Santa Fe a place on TripAdvisor's Top 10 U.S. Food & Wine Destinations of 2011. The Santa Fe Plaza has served as the city center for nearly 400 years, and the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum highlights the work of the iconic American artist, who adopted New Mexico as her home state.

From late fall to early spring, up to 300 inches of snow fall on the nearby slopes, which offer miles of downhill skiing and snowboarding trails. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains are dotted with piñon, juniper, and ponderosa forests, many of which are traced with excellent hiking trails winding past picturesque meadows filled with Indian paintbrush, purple lupine, and undomesticated landscape artists.