Everything at Hacienda del Sol (109 Mabel Dodge La., 575/758-0287, www.taoshaciendadelsol.com [1], $155 d) is built in relation to Taos Mountain, which looms in the backyard with no other buildings cluttering the view. Even the smallest rooms feel expansive in the summer, as doors open onto a vast courtyard and, of course, the view (which you can also enjoy from the hot tub). The 11 rooms, spread over several adobe outbuildings, are cozy without being too oppressively Southwestern in their design, and perks such as robes, bathtubs, and minifridges approximate hotel service, while a collection of Taos-related books waits by the bedside.
Although the location of Casa de las Chimeneas (405 Cordoba Rd., 575/758-4777, www.visittaos.com [2], $185 d) a few blocks south of the plaza is very convenient for sightseeing, the place is also a skier’s delight, with snow reports via email in the winter, plus a hot tub and wet and dry saunas to soothe aching muscles. Though it calls itself a bed-and-breakfast, the layout and the generously appointed rooms feel more like a small luxury lodge than someone’s adapted home. The largest suite has its own private steam sauna as well as a whirlpool tub, and skylights, fireplaces, reading nooks, and gigantic tubs are some of the perks in the other rooms, furnished in tasteful if slightly bland style.
For a larger group or a family, an excellent option in this price range is Inger Jirby’s Casitas (207 Ledoux St., 575/758-7333, www.jirby.com [3], $195 suite). The two full guesthouses, side by side on historic Ledoux Street just off the plaza, are furnished very tastefully by the Swedish artist owner with colorful Indian rugs. Four people can sleep comfortably in the multilevel apartments that let in lots of light through clerestory windows. Both have a full kitchen, gas fireplace, stereo system, cable TV, wireless Internet, and even Wii.
Links:
[1] http://www.taoshaciendadelsol.com
[2] http://www.visittaos.com
[3] http://www.jirby.com