Serenity Now: Ojo Santa Fe
Short breaks that provide a peaceful refuge, encourage introspection, and leave you feeling revitalized
In my next life, I would like to be a travel planner. In the meantime, I search obsessively for serene and uncomplicated travel destinations to recharge and find inner peace. Occasionally, I’ll share my finds here — handpicked hotels and rentals, offering peaceful 2-3 day retreats.
Ojo Santa Fe
242 Los Pinos Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87507
Ojo Santa Fe is an oasis of tranquility in the high desert of New Mexico. Over the years, I have returned to this property because of its lush grounds, thermal pools, and unfussy atmosphere. Happily, they keep making improvements every year. Whisper zones, hammocks, rocking chairs, water features, and firepits are strategically placed to ensure you take the time to wander and relax. The rooms and casitas are decorated in relaxing earth tones and feature Northern New Mexican art and Pendleton blankets. They are well stocked with local tea and coffee.
The high desert’s cool mornings and evenings are perfect for trying the numerous thermal pools of different temperatures throughout the 77 acres. The large saltwater swimming pool is a big draw in the summer. The attendants there will provide fresh towels and natural artesian drinking water. There are numerous complimentary activities at Ojo Santa Fe, if you choose to do something other than swim and soak. There is a contemplative medicine wheel to walk and a hiking trail with beautiful views right from the property through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains (the southernmost subrange of the Rocky Mountains). Ojo Santa Fe also offers daily yoga, an archery range, a garden, a puppy patch, and even some silkie chickens to visit with. Top-notch massages and private soaking pools are available through the spa, though I have never found the communal thermal pools to be crowded. There is an excellent restaurant and a cafe on site, so you really do not have to leave, making for a simple and easy getaway.
What makes it special to me
Dip in and out of the property’s numerous pools to your heart’s content from 7:30 am to 10 pm and watch the stars come out.
To keep in mind
The number of day guests increased this summer, each claiming a seat around the saltwater pool by mid-day. For a prime shaded spot by the pool, get there by late morning.
Meals
Between the Blue Heron restaurant and the Sages cafe, you do not have to leave the property if you don’t want to. Order anything with the local chile from the restaurant. You also can’t beat the daily “Ojo” salad based on what is fresh from their garden. The menu features some good New Mexico wines, and the desserts are a step above. You can also order takeout from the restaurant all day and eat in a private nook anywhere on the property.
Room types
There are garden rooms and more private casitas. Both are beautiful. I prefer the garden rooms on the second floor for the combination of privacy and views over the property. The terraces of the more expensive casitas feel a little too enclosed to me — with no surrounding greenery due to their high walls.
Location
A 10-minute drive or cab ride from Santa Fe airport and 20 minutes from the city of Santa Fe.
Nearby
If you decide to venture out for food, I can recommend two local spots: Harry’s Road House and El Parasol for tacos. El Rancho de Los Golondrinas is within walking distance, a living history museum on the old El Camino Real. There is trail riding at Broken Saddle Riding Company. The city of Santa Fe is 20 minutes away.