Checking Into Nature
I just returned from Four Seasons Santa Fe, and my shoulders are still somewhere between “fully melted” and “never leaving New Mexico again.” This resort has always intrigued me. High desert landscapes, pueblo-inspired architecture, endless outdoor activities. After experiencing the newly renovated casitas and the evolved spa firsthand, I can confidently say this property deserves the hype.
Although, I will admit, I expected the resort layout to be a bit larger. The central amenities sit relatively close together, while the casitas are tucked into the hills for privacy. Once I understood that design choice, it clicked. Peace and quiet aren’t a bonus here. They are the point.
My Casita: Private Patio Fireplaces and Maximum Cozy
I stayed in a Patio Casita, which happens to be their entry-level category. Calling it “entry-level” feels misleading. These casitas are huge.
Patio Casita Highlights:
• 630 sq ft (59 m²)
• King bed (rollaway or crib available)
• Up to 3 guests
• Spacious bathroom with deep soaking tub
• Ground floor location
• Indoor and outdoor wood-burning fireplaces
• Heated floors
• Peaceful landscape views
My favorite ritual quickly became firing up the outdoor patio fireplace for early morning coffee. Simply text through the Four Seasons app and someone arrives within minutes to set the fire. I want patio fireplace service everywhere now, please.
I also received a bottle of champagne, a handwritten card, and chocolate-covered strawberries as a welcome amenity. A lovely touch.
A Resort for Food Lovers
I have eaten at many Four Seasons resorts. This one surprised me the most.
I have long claimed Four Seasons Vail created the best hot chocolate on Earth. I stand corrected. The Santa Fe version comes covered in fresh vanilla bean whipped cream that tastes like it descended from a pastry-chef-trained cloud.
Other favorites:
• Blue corn pancakes
• Green chile mac and cheese
• Pretzel burger
• Eggs Benedict… with a twist I will not spoil, but trust me
My one critique: there is only one formal restaurant. A second dining option would elevate the experience, especially for longer stays.
Spa Time: The Earth and Sky Massage
The resort’s spa recently expanded its wellness programming in line with the high desert’s grounding energy. Everything feels intentional, nature-forward, and restorative.
I enjoyed the Earth and Sky Massage (80 minutes) and floated out like someone who briefly forgot what stress is. The spa amenities deserve mention too: private hot tubs in each dressing room, eucalyptus outdoor showers, steam, and thoughtful skincare products.
Here is a full list of new spa treatments added to the menu:
- Spiritual Journey (110 minutes | USD 425) – A full-body ritual beginning with a sage smudging ceremony and nutrient-rich clay wrap, followed by a warm oil scalp massage and chakra-balancing touch. Crystal singing bowls guide guests into a profound state of relaxation.
- Mountain Spirit Purification (110 minutes | USD 425) – Inspired by Native American reverence for the Earth, this ritual includes smudging, clay body wrap, warm oil scalp treatment, and a grounding hot stone massage.
- Encantado Bespoke Massage (50–80 minutes | USD 225–USD 295) – A personalized experience infused with local aromatherapy, designed to meet each guest’s unique needs and preferences.
- Desert Quench Body Renewal (80 minutes | USD 375) – A deeply hydrating ritual incorporating CBD-infused body polish, wrap, massage, and a nourishing scalp treatment.
- Southwest Couples Retreat (190 minutes per person | USD 1,090 per couple) – A luxurious shared experience that includes a cacao body wrap, warm oil scalp massage, Earth To Sky Massage and foot polish, followed by private relaxation in a spa courtyard with rosé and chocolate-covered strawberries.
- Altitude Adjustment Massage (80 minutes | USD 325) – Specially designed to support acclimation to Santa Fe’s high elevation with focused massage (with the option to add oxygen inhalation therapy for USD 75), and a ChlorOxygen restorative beverage.
Adventure Awaits (Even If You’re Not Typically “Outdoorsy”)
I love that the Adventure Center is run in-house. It shows in the guiding: knowledgeable, passionate people who tailor everything to your pace and comfort level.
I tried:
• Guided Mountain Biking (3 hours)
Rails Trails or single-track in Galisteo Basin
• Guided Hiking (3 hours)
Aspen grove trails, mountain peaks, or wildflower-lined creek paths
Complimentary daily hikes are also offered. Not into sweating? You can spend the day by the heated outdoor pool staring at mountain ridgelines. Zero judgment.
Additional adventures available:
Hot air ballooning, horseback riding, fly fishing, snowshoeing, river rafting, skiing, culture tours, and more.
Families Welcome: Cozy Casitas and Kid-Approved Adventures
This resort shines for families who love a blend of outdoor adventure and relaxed luxury. Casitas offer plenty of breathing room, along with wood-burning fireplaces and private patios that make evenings feel special. Children ages 5 and under enjoy complimentary meals at Terra, and the team can provide high chairs, cribs, kids’ toiletries, childproofing, and even miniature bathrobes and slippers so little travelers feel like VIPs too. Seasonal programming includes guided hikes designed for all ages, s’mores at the fire pit, poolside fun, games, and even ski or snowboard lessons in winter.
Off-property, families can dive into the imaginative world of Meow Wolf, explore hands-on exhibits at the Santa Fe Children’s Museum, say hello to creepy-crawly friends at the Harrell House Bug Museum, or learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage at the Palace of the Governors. Kid-friendly hikes, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, Bandelier National Monument, and artisan hot chocolate from Kakawa Chocolate House round out an itinerary that keeps young explorers fully entertained.
Santa Fe: The Soul of the Southwest
Recently named the #1 Top Travel Destination City in the United States by Travel + Leisure, Santa Fe continues to captivate travelers with its magnetic blend of outdoor adventure, art, and culture. From its centuries-old adobe architecture and thriving creative scene to its celebrated culinary traditions and high-desert beauty, the city exudes a sense of place unlike anywhere else. Whether exploring the galleries along Canyon Road, tasting authentic green chile, or setting out on a sunrise hike through the Sangre de Cristo foothills, Santa Fe invites discovery at every turn.
With new direct flights now available into Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF), getting here has never been easier. American Airlines has even begun daily routes from Los Angeles year-round, plus a seasonal flight from Chicago.
Seasons in Santa Fe
Summer and winter are the busiest times. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and fewer people. The light in Santa Fe changes throughout the year in a way that photographers dream about.
A Newly Reimagined Resort
The resort completed a multimillion-dollar renovation in 2024, transforming all 65 casitas. The Pueblo-inspired design now incorporates warm, desert-driven colors, custom furnishings, new lighting and technology, and Indigenous artistry including horsehair pottery in every room. The refreshed spaces feel modern without losing Santa Fe’s soul.
Getting to Four Seasons Santa Fe
We flew nonstop from Austin to Albuquerque, then drove about an hour to the resort. You can also fly directly into Santa Fe Municipal Airport, which is only about 20 minutes away but has fewer nonstop options. You can arrange for transportation directly through the resort or through our Hotel Plus service.
Final Thoughts
I would stay here again in a heartbeat. Glorious food, private fireplaces, access to Santa Fe’s culture and nature, and a fresh new design that celebrates its setting. The resort feels intimate and personal, which pairs perfectly with wellness-focused travel or a quiet romantic getaway.
A second restaurant and maybe a slightly larger central footprint would be nice improvements over time, although the seclusion of the casitas is part of the charm.
Four Seasons Offers & Packages with Preferred Partner
- Guaranteed Upgrade: Valid for selected dates between Jul 13, 2025 –Dec 18, 2025.
- Enjoy a guaranteed upgrade at time of booking for new reservations.
- Offers are subject to availability at the time of booking. Blackout dates and other restrictions may apply.
- Pay 3, Stay 4: Valid for selected dates between Oct 28, 2025 –Dec 31, 2026.
- Enjoy a complimentary 4th night.
- Offers are subject to availability at the time of booking. Blackout dates and other restrictions may apply.
- Advance Purchase – Up To 25% Off: Valid for selected dates between Oct 28, 2025 –Dec 31, 2026
- The reservation must be made at least 14 days in advance.
Through our Hotel-Only service, we can book your stay for the exact same rate you find online, with the added benefit of booking your stay with us. We charge zero fees through this service; it is completely complimentary!
When you book with Ourisman Travel, you will be a VIP guest and receive exclusive amenities:
- Room upgrades, complimentary breakfast, and property credits.
- With VIP status, hotel management and staff eagerly await your arrival.
- First priority of the best rooms and suites available.
- Guaranteed lowest rates.
- Ourisman Travel, a top-rated travel advisor, offers enhanced service and attention to detail, free of booking fees.
Four Seasons Preferred Partner can generally be combined with any rates you’ll find directly with Four Seasons. The upgrades through Preferred Partner are also prioritized over upgrades through other programs, so you’ll want to use Preferred Partner over a program like Virtuoso or Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts.
Ourisman Travel’s status as one of Four Seasons’ leading Preferred Partners globally, coupled with their daily interactions with property management teams, ensures your preferences are met and your stay is personalized with daily breakfast, varying resort credits, priority upgrades, and a welcoming acknowledgment of your status.
For more information on current rates or to start planning your next adventure, email us at [email protected] or complete a Travel Request Form. If you’re still exploring your options, we have several resources to help you, including our complimentary booking tool, a Preferred Hotels Map, and detailed blog posts.
Curious about dates and pricing? Email [email protected] or complete our quick Travel Request Form. We also offer tools to help you browse and explore more options across the luxury hotel world.
Your fireplace-coffee mornings await.
