La Posada Hotel

The dining at The Turquoise Room was a highlight. We had the chicken mole, Arizona wild game trio, and bread pudding, and every dish was superb. The food was excellent, and the wine list was fantastic. There are beautiful antiques and art all through this distinctive property. The public spaces, rooms, and gardens feel warm, inviting, and comfortable, with a historic charm that makes you want to linger. It's well worth going off the beaten path to explore. The place feels like a living museum, with a remarkable gallery of the owner's collection curated throughout the hotel. It's striking and memorable, and gives the hotel so much character. We also loved the gift shop and bookstore, with their range of artisanal trinkets and local finds. The Los Poblanos toiletries in the rooms were a lovely touch, especially that signature lavender scent. The history is a big part of what makes it special. A few years ago, we saw an exhibit about the Harvey Hotels at a museum in Santa Fe, but didn't connect The Castañeda Hotel in Las Vegas, NM with the Harvey Hotels until we spotted a painting at La Posada that reminded us of a print we saw in The Castañeda last summer. Really great hotel!

We had a meal and cocktails at the Turquoise Room and enjoyed them. The Affeldt Mion museum right next to La Posada is worth a look for more hotel history and additional artwork. Admission is free, with donations accepted. La Posada's architecture, gardens, and grounds are beautiful. Inside, it's furnished with period pieces, Native American art, and colorful artwork. The staff were efficient and professional, and the hotel has a fascinating history. We stayed just one night and are looking forward to coming back soon.

The hotel has a unique, historic feel, and it's clean and cozy. The restaurant bar has a big selection of spirits, and the dining menu is even better. The food was delicious, and service was great. Quiet is another matter. The walls are very thin, so be ready for noisy neighbors. I could hear the guest upstairs snoring in the middle of the night, then their phone alarm going off in the morning. Around the hotel, the area feels like it's falling apart, with gated doors, barred windows, dilapidated buildings, and parking lot signs saying “park at your own risk.” I enjoyed the stay, but hope Winslow finds a way to improve its presence.

The gardens and veranda are places to sit with a book or watch the shadows shift across the ground. I’m writing this from one of the gardens with my wife, listening to the fountains and trees rustle. The indoor common areas are spacious, comfortable, and beautifully maintained, and the rooms are lovely too. La Posada seems to reach back to a slower time, when life felt less rushed. You could arrive late, sleep, and leave early, but that'd be like chugging a fine wine. This place feels more like a destination resort than just a hotel, and is best enjoyed by slowing down and being here. Chef's Kiss!