Inn on the Alameda, Santa Fe, New Mexico

The Inn on the Alameda, Santa Fe, is a central hotel with the ambience of a country B&B.

The scent of spring lilacs drifts in from the patio. The puff of breeze ruffles the maps and brochures beside me on the bed. Warm evening sun slants into our room at Inn on the Alameda, Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Two hours earlier, Pat and I had driven the speed limit to get to Santa Fe in time for Friday night gallery hopping on Canyon Road. Just a block from this world-famous commercial art gallery district and three blocks from Santa Fe’s historic Plaza, I knew the Inn on the Alameda would be a quick stroll from our primary touring objectives. The plan was to check in, dump the bags and hit the pavement immediately. And when I’m on an art-related mission, I usually execute it as though I’m storming Juno Beach. Santa Fe has much magic, though, and our strict schedule evaporated  the minute we stepped out of the car at Inn on the Alameda.

Immediately we were enchanted by the Inn’s leafy garden setting beside the Santa Fe River and its charming Pueblo-style architecture. Inside, warm woods, a kiva fireplace and authentic decorative elements in the lobby library spoke of simplicity and Southwest aesthetic. The Inn’s intimate scale, only 72 rooms, made check-in a matter of moments. Staff invited us to join other guests sharing the day’s experiences and making evening plans over complimentary wines and cheeses at the Inn’s daily reception. We lingered long in the easeful, welcoming atmosphere.

Much later, in our spacious pine-ceiling’d suite, a bird peeps outside the open balcony door and again I’m struck at how this urban hotel at the heart of a UNESCO Creative City feels so much like a country retreat.

The sun lowers, shadows grow longer, patterns shift. Leaves rustle, Pat turns a page of his book on the patio. I shove my guidebooks off the bed and sink into crisp pillows. Canyon Road will still be there in an hour. For now I’ll sleep, bathed in serenity and the scent of lilacs.

Inn on the Alameda

303 East Alameda

Santa Fe, New Mexico 87501

1 (505) 984-2121

1 (800) 289-2122

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Inn on the Alameda is one of Conde Nast Traveler’s Top U.S. 200 hotels 2011.

The Inn has 72 rooms and suites in several low-rise buildings spread across 3 acres.

The Inn on the Alameda’s grounds and courtyards are beautifully planted.

The Inn’s cozy lobby library is a favorite gathering spot for guests.

The Inn’s complimentary – and generous – afternoon wine and cheese receptions are a special time of day for guests.

The skylit Agoyo Room hosts breakfast, afternoon wine and cheese, and offers full bar service.

The Inn’s lavish breakfast buffet includes delicious hot dishes like frittata or quiche, a wide variety of breads and baked treats, gluten-free and vegan options.

Each of the Inn’s low-rise buildings has an elevator and free guest parking close to rooms.

Some of the Inn’s suites are casita-style with private entrance.

Inn rooms are accented with warm woods, handmade armoires, Spanish tile and other elements of Southwestern style.

Room options can include kiva fireplace, private balcony and/or patio.

Across the street from the Inn, a tree-shaded walk runs alongside the Santa Fe River.

Every season in Santa Fe has its special charm, making it a true year-round destination.

Inn on the Alameda is a centrally-located hotel in Santa Fe with the intimate atmosphere of a country B&B.

More useful  links:

Santa Fe Convention & Visitors Bureau

New Mexico Tourism