Jenny's View
Friends,
I am so fortunate to live and work in a community surrounded by natural beauty, that honors a mosaic of cultures and fosters a collective commitment to kindness. It’s a city that welcomes — with open arms — all whom seek relaxation, romance and refuge in our mountain air. Over the past year I’ve had the opportunity to revisit why I fell in love with Santa Fe to begin with. Here’s some of my favorite places to visit during the month of love:
Santa Fe National Forest
My favorite mountain destination this time of year is easy to reach. A quick drive on Artist Road leads you past Ten Thousand Waves (book a soak on your way back to town), up and over switchbacks lined with subalpine fir, pines and blue spruce, and finally, across a broad network of aspens to arrive at Ski Santa Fe. Nestled in the Santa Fe National Forest, Ski Santa Fe has a base elevation of 10,350 feet. The Santa Fe National Forest is the perfect launching point for winter adventure, whether you’re interested in snowboarding, alpine, cross-country or snowshoe trekking, you’ll find it here. It’s important to note: this year lift tickets need to be purchased in advance, so be sure to check availability. Remember to dress for the weather and pack extra gear!
The Santa Fe Botanical Garden
One often overlooks a visit to the garden during the winter, but no matter the time of year, at the Santa Fe Botanical Garden you’ll find yourself immersed in a space that evokes equal parts tranquility and beauty. The gardens cultivate and conserve the rich botanical heritage of our region, making it the perfect place to gain insight to our unique biodiversity. Learn more about the gardens here. You’ll arrive reminded that the act of planting a garden is visionary; you’ll leave filled with hope and a sense of quiet beauty.
Canyon Road
My husband and I love to take late evening strolls up Canyon Road. After hours, the gallery windows shine bright with gorgeous displays featuring the intricate and unique works of local artisans. Whether you’re into sculpture, ceramics, mixed media, oil, watercolor or acrylic paintings, you’ll be dazzled by nearly every medium as you enjoy a romantic, starlit stroll along this famous art corridor.
The High Road
It’s always better to take the high road — especially when you’re day-tripping to Taos! Play your favorite podcast, jam out to a Spotify playlist, or simply put your favorite love song on repeat as you drive through northern New Mexico’s quiet villages and quaint landscapes offering clear views of the snow capped Jemez and Sangre de Cristo peaks. These landmark sites are ideal to explore while in Taos and while honoring social distancing.
Santa Fe Plaza & Downtown
Socially distanced shopping and gallery hopping is still permitted, so I’ve made it a point to visit my favorite local shops for gifts big and small whenever possible. Patina Gallery offers more than just modern, handmade art, they promote Mindful Meditations, a series of thoughtful video interviews that shed light on the world of the gallery’s artists and makers. Susan's Christmas Shop, our neighbor on East Palace Avenue, features ornaments and seasonally inspired gifts. Of course, The Shops at La Fonda highlight the best of Santa Fe style — showcasing everything from contemporary leather goods to classic black and white photography. Our very own Detours, is the perfect place to pick up something special for your Valentine. Explore Detours’ online, curated selection of Valentine gifts.
New Mexican Cuisine
There’s a reason chile is the designated state vegetable that defines our cuisine: it warms your heart and feeds your soul. And in Santa Fe there’s no shortage of options to choose from when you’re in need of your fix. My all-time favorite is Chef Lane Warner’s tried and true Chile Rellenos currently offered at our Terrace Rooftop Patio. The dish features roasted fresh green chiles stuffed with the perfect blend of Chihuahua and asadero cheeses that are baked, then topped with earthy red or green chile and served with pinto beans and pico de gallo. No wonder it’s our best selling menu item! Click here to explore other Santa Fe favorites.
Santa Fe Farmers’ Market
The short supply chain of local food is more important now than ever and local farmers are working hard to provide our community with the freshest food available. I’ve been so thankful for the opportunity to support our local food vendors during these challenging times. The Santa Fe Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 8am - 1pm at the Railyard. Remember, the market is operating at 25% capacity, so like all good things, you may have to wait patiently for access.
La Fonda on the Plaza
I can’t hold back my love for La Fonda! In the very heart of Santa Fe, few can argue that our landmark hotel doesn’t capture the lure and romance of the City Different. Our blazing fireplaces located throughout the property, including in various guest rooms and luxury suites, make the hotel the ideal destination to cozy up this Valentines. Book our Winter Romance Package and enjoy complimentary truffles and Gruet sparkling wine, breakfast in bed, and relax with a 2pm late check out.
I understand that these are challenging times to travel and for many of you, booking a journey to New Mexico right now simply isn’t an option. But know that there’s no shortage of love waiting here for you when you return!
Love,
Jenny
