Charmed in the Land of Enchantment.

“If you ever go to New Mexico,” O’Keeffe told a friend, ‘it will itch you for the rest of your life.”

Nestled in the Southwest is a hidden gem of a state, one that does not get nearly enough recognition for its beauty, diversity, and splendor. I spent two weeks in New Mexico this fall and found myself delighting in the sweetest spectrum of vistas and experiences – From charming, rustic mountain towns to fine, snow-white sand deserts. From vibrant, rosy sunsets to peaceful, heart- and body-warming hot springs. From eclectic, creative communities to sun-drenched, flower-lined hiking trails. From rich foods livened with green chili to charming pueblo-style coffee shops. And from storied, ancient relics and monuments to scarlet, flat-topped mesas. If this national treasure is not high up on your bucket list of places to visit, I’d humbly but whole-heartedly recommend rearranging your list. 🙂

A list of excursions to consider:

White Sands National Park: With gorgeous acreage in the Tularosa Basin, this expanse of sand dunes is composed of a fine powder from gypsum crystals.

Sandia Mountains: A stunning, standalone stretch of mountainland on the outskirts of Albuquerque, known for its rosy hue at sunset. Take the tram toward the peak, or hike one of a plethora of trails for an awe-inspiring experience.

Santa Fe: The capital of New Mexico, situated about one hour’s drive north of Albuquerque. Meander the galleries, tour the sacred chapels (e.g. Loretta Chapel, home of the legendary ‘Miraculous Stair’), enjoy live music along the streets, and cozy up in one of many fine restaurants (check out Sazon and Tia Sophia’s) in the town. The artistic, historic atmosphere is palpable, and an air of whimsy and relaxed vibrance will go with you as you walk about.

Taos: At the foot of the Sangre de Cristo mountains, this charming town in northern New Mexico feels like an international escape. It is both peaceful and vibrant, quaint and eclectic, and offers easy access to the nearby Taos Ski Valley where year-round recreation is a rule. Hike Wheeler Peak to reach the highest natural point in the state at 13,167 feet (but bring good water and sustenance, and add micro spikes if hiking in the snowy season!).

El Santuario de Chimayo: This blessed and beautiful adobe chapel is a National Historic Landmark, known to be a site of pilgrimage especially around Holy Week, and thought to house a healing, holy dirt within. The grounds are serene and draw you into peaceful contemplation as you walk along the complex. Another chapel, Santo Nino de Atocha, is a minute’s walk away, and is home to a small prayer room lined with the shoes of infants and children, resembling prayer requests and answered prayers.

Jemez Mountains: The Jemez region is so named in honor of the native Puebloan population to whom the land belongs. Replete with beautiful views of both red rock and mountain, deep gorges, quiet winding roads, countless hiking trails, and hidden hot springs, this area is a cannot-miss for the hiking and nature enthusiast.

Old Albuquerque Historic District: Spend a morning or afternoon walking the museums, galleries, boutiques, and San Felipe de Neri church in this beautifully preserved plaza. You’ll have your pick of multiple restaurants and cuisines here along the square, or you can hop over to the nearby Sawmill Market with a great variety of eats, beats, and beverages.