Santa Fe has a distinctive blend of Native American, Spanish, and Anglo cultures woven into its architecture, art, history, and food. My first long weekend in this historic city wasn’t nearly enough time to see it all, but it was long enough for me to fall in love with the city.
I booked a room at the Inn and Spa at Loretto, a luxury hotel just steps from the historic Santa Fe Plaza and next door to the famed Loretto Chapel.
Pueblo-Style Luxury in Downtown Santa Fe
Opened in 1975 on the former site of Loretto Academy, the hotel was designed in Pueblo Revival style to resemble the more than 1,000-year-old Taos Pueblo. Some original academy buildings remain on the property. Today, the AAA Four Diamond resort has 138 guest rooms, an award-winning spa, restaurants, boutiques, and a heated garden pool.
My room was filled with the warm colors and textures of New Mexico. Plush furnishings made it feel luxurious yet cozy, while a balcony offered a wonderful spot to enjoy Santa Fe’s brilliant blue sky, colorful sunsets, and star-filled nights.
I arrived around lunchtime and after checking in asked the concierge for recommendations on food, sights to see, and where to shop. Less than fifteen minutes later, my first 48 hour trip to Santa Fe was mapped out. From lunch at The Shed to breakfast at Cafe Pasqual’s, Pam was right on the money of the places to eat and sights to see.
Thoughtful touches made the stay even sweeter. Local cookies, fruit, water, truffles scattered over rose petals, and champagne were delightful surprises waiting in my room.
Dining at Luminaria Restaurant and Patio
Luminaria Restaurant and Patio has one of the prettiest outdoor dining spaces in Santa Fe. Tucked beside Loretto Chapel, its garden patio is a lovely place to linger over a meal during warmer months.
I enjoyed dinner inside by candlelight and a blazing fireplace. The menu changes, but I enjoyed a Sage Brush cocktail and Foraged Mushroom Pappardelle were standouts during my visit. Luminaria serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch.
After dinner, I settled into a cozy chair in The Living Room for live music before ending the evening with a nightcap on my balcony.
Why Stay at the Inn and Spa at Loretto?
The location is hard to beat. Santa Fe Plaza, the Palace of the Governors, restaurants, shops, museums, and galleries are all within walking distance. The adjacent Loretto Chapel is home to its famous spiral staircase, which makes the hotel an especially convenient base for exploring Santa Fe’s historic center.
The Spa at Loretto offers massages, facials, body treatments, and salon services. Hotel guests can also enjoy complimentary weekend yoga classes, a fitness center, and the renovated pool area.
With its Pueblo-inspired architecture, welcoming rooms, standout dining, and prime downtown location, Inn and Spa at Loretto captures the art and soul of Santa Fe.
When I return to Santa Fe staying at the Inn and Spa at Loretto, or at least a visit to the spa earns a spot on my itinerary. For other sights to see, check out my post on A Day in Santa Fe.
