5 Best Hotels in Southwestern New Mexico, New Mexico

A ponderosa pine forest surrounds the silvered wood-and-stone, two-story cabins, half of which have kitchens with cookware, and fireplaces. Rustic hand-hewn railings adorn the Adirondack-chair bedecked porches, which have you sitting in the treetops—eye-level with all manner of birds and other wildlife. Gold panning, hiking, and fishing are among the popular activities at this Pinos Altos mountain getaway.

On the western edge of the Gila Wilderness are five well-appointed private casitas ("little houses" in Spanish) overlooking Bear Creek, nestled on 260 gorgeous acres. The night skies are brilliant, with countless stars twinkling, and the swath of the Milky Way glowing brightly. Each casita has its own spotting telescope or high-powered binoculars. Watching the stars from the shared hot tub is not to be missed. Guests have access to the organic herb garden (in season), which is super for those wanting to use the casitas' well-equipped kitchens and barbecue grills. Custom-crafted Southwestern-style furnishings, kiva fireplaces, radiant-heated floors, and generously appointed baths make for a perfect year-round getaway. The gracious and well-informed hosts offer star parties and tips on hiking and local geology; there are 9 miles of trails right on the property. There's also a very well-curated art gallery on-site.

This elegant property led the way for the small but impressive upward trend in lodging in T or C. In a compact 1937 building in the heart of town, this inn feels like a secluded retreat because of the massive walls and boulders surrounding its mission-style exterior. The simple, tasteful rooms have hardwood floors and serene prints on the walls; some have grand jetted tubs, though their open location adjacent to the sleeping areas may not appeal to everyone. Bathrooms are well-appointed, and many have extra-large showers. Guests can soak in an outdoor or indoor kiva-style hot tub swirling with steamy water from natural, underground hot springs; massages, facials, and other holistic body therapies are available by appointment in the spa. Breakfasts are delicious and are made with mostly local ingredients. The lodge is within easy walking distance of several restaurants.

Once owned and operated by the Nature Conservancy, this serene 1928 haven was restored in 2010, and reopened to great acclaim in the hands of new owners, Linda Brewer and John Rohovec, who continue to offer luxury accommodations for bird-watchers and nature lovers. You have direct access to 178 acres of Gila National Forest land, where you can spot bird species such as the Gila woodpecker, vermilion flycatcher, and red-faced warbler. Four second-story rooms in the main lodge have views of mountains and forestland. Two downstairs lodge rooms have outdoor access to a covered porch. Four guest rooms are available in Myra's Retreat, a separate building named for the former owner, and a great space for a larger family or group. A two-bedroom guesthouse known as the Wren's Nest has an exposed wood ceiling, and a new-for-2021 Mongolian yurt offers another interesting option. Throughout the lodge, hardwood floors and locally handcrafted furniture—all made from reclaimed wood—add to the rustic elegance. The rooms and grounds now have a contemporary touch as well, with the bright addition of sculptures and wall art from the owners' Blue Dome Gallery with locations onsite and in Silver City, where you'll find the Ursa Minor Suite for overnight stays. Box lunches and dinner are available for additional charge and by arrangement. Cafe Oso Azul, featuring local foods and an irresistible menu (roasted vegetable strata, chile-laden pot roast hash, fresh apple cider, Mexican chocolate-chip cookies, and homemade ice cream), is open to the public for Sat. and Sun. brunch.