Collection by Stephanie Orma
Modern Desert Retreat in New Mexico
On the edge of the Sangre de Cristo foothills, Rancho Encantado is a modernist hideaway tucked within New Mexico’s Tesuque Valley. Once a decades-old dude ranch, newly reinvented as a Four Seasons, the retreat was designed to preserve and embrace its 57 unspoiled acres with 65 pueblo-style casitas blending into the rural desert landscape. And although new agey downtown Santa Fe is just a stone’s throw, the vibe here is a refreshing fusion of Southwest meets mid-century modern style—sans dream catchers and mystic clichés.
An on-site art gallery housed in a modern steel structure gives guests a taste of the Santa Fe arts scene. The abstract bronze sculpture is by artist Bill Barrett.
Designed by Wilson Associates, the rooms are outfitted with knotty Alder doors, square-cut wood beams, local art, and mid-century style furniture highlighted by pops of Southwest accents. French doors lead to private terraces fringed by lavender plants, aspen and juniper trees and desert brush.
Hello, hiking trails out your back door: the staff leads daily treks from the property’s Camino Encantado ridge offering postcard-worthy views of the surrounding Sangre de Cristo and Jemez Mountains and Valles Caldera.
In the hotel’s raved-about Terra restaurant, natural light pours in through glass walls, while rich chocolate woods, exposed lights suspended from tall ceilings, and a massive stone fireplace set the sleek tone.
Designed to reflect sacred Pueblo Indian kivas but with an updated spin, the light and airy round-roomed spa “warming space” features a custom walnut-striped chandelier and stacked wood Falo tables—a nod to Native American and New Mexico traditions.
Minimalist poolside loungers provide guests maximum serenity while taking in the sweeping Southwest setting.