Winter is my favorite time to visit Santa Fe. The air is crisp, the traditional kiva-style fireplaces are cozy, and the city never looks lovelier than when its adobe walls are adorned with snow. All of Santa Fe’s legendary sophistication is ready to be enjoyed—music, art, a wealth of restaurants, and premier shopping. Add in the excitement of winter sports, plus great prices at some of the best hotels, and there’s no reason not to visit.
This is shaping up to be a great season at Ski Santa Fe, just 30 minutes from the downtown plaza and there is cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, and tubing on nearby mountain trails. Most hotels offer special deals at this time of year and restaurants advertise specials in the local newspaper. There is no more affordable time to explore Santa Fe.
Eldorado Hotel and Spa. The Winter Wonderland Package includes one free treatment at the elegant Nidah Spa for every room night booked. There is no limit—5 nights earn 5 pampering spa treatments. Treatments are valued at $130, which can be used as a credit toward other spa services. New winter choices include a 50-minute cranberry pumpkin facial and a 50-minute peppermint oil massage. Nightly rates begin at $199 and the offer extends through March 31, 2010. For reservations, visit www.eldoradohotel.com and reference PKGWW booking code, or call 800-955-4455 and mention Winter Wonderland.
Inn on the Alameda. The inn celebrates its 24th anniversary with an exceptional three-night package. Book the first two nights and the third is only $24! The inn’s romantic rooms are the perfect getaway and a tasty breakfast is included. The offer does not apply to groups and there are blackout dates. See details at www.innonthealameda.com Reservations are by phone only, 800-289-2122.
Hotel Santa Fe, The Hacienda and Spa. Stay at Santa Fe’s Native American owned hotel for 2 nights at $299 per person and the third night is free. This luxurious package includes breakfast, a dinner for two at Amaya with a complimentary bottle of wine, and two one-hour spa treatments. For $100 more stay in the exclusive Hacienda, with a welcoming fireplace in each room and exemplary butler service. Offer is extended through March 31. Call 800-210-6440 and mention the promotion code, WSPA.
Santa Fe Sage Inn. Three great winter packages are available— for skiers, foodies, and sightseers. The Ski Getaway package includes a double room for two nights and one full day of lift tickets for two at Ski Santa Fe for only $199! For non-skiers, the Dine for Free package includes a $40 dollar dining card and double room for two nights for $139. Or, visitors can spend extra time in Santa Fe with the Third Night Free package, starting at $139. Healthy Start continental breakfast is included. Packages expire on February 28 and are available by phone, 866-433-0335.
Bishop’s Lodge Ranch Resort & Spa. Bishop’s Lodge welcomes skiers with a special package—a deluxe room with a fireplace, plus breakfast, and transportation to the ski area for $149 per night, double occupancy. The Lodge is located in the countryside just north of Santa Fe and many more outdoor activities are available. For reservations, call 800-732-2240 or visit www.bishopslodge.com.
Guadalupe Inn. Rooms are reduced by 25 percent this winter at the Guadalupe Inn bed and breakfast. Standard rooms are just $109 per night, whirlpool tub rooms are $127.50, and a suite is $146. This offer is good until April 15, so you can enjoy extra ski days. Full breakfast is included. Make reservations at 505-989-7422 or www.guadalupeinn.com.
All offers have restrictions. Check details, find more special offers, and for everything Santa Fe, www.santafe.org
Source: LOCAS Communications/Ballantines PR
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".