Fodor's Expert Review Elk Mountain Lodge

Set amid towering evergreen trees in a majestic part the Jemez Mountains, this rustic but beautifully appointed log cabin–style hideaway contains five spacious rooms and expansive decks with sweeping views of the surrounding peaks, meadows, and rivers. It's easy to feel completely relaxed in this stunning setting, and although it's a 75-minute drive from Santa Fe, the lodge is a perfect jumping-off point for visiting the many notable attractions along the way, including Bandelier National Monument and Valles Caldera National Preserve.

YOU SHOULD KNOW The remote mountain setting is wonderful for getting away from it all, but keep in mind that the lodge is a good distance from the shopping, dining, and museums of Santa Fe.

room

Accommodations in this handsome, remote hideaway capture the rusticity of a mountain lodge, but they exude warmth and elegance. Radiant-heated flagstone or tile floors, cathedral ceilings, exposed-log walls, premium linens, and well-curated Western artwork create an inviting ambience, and the views out the tall windows remind you constantly of the gorgeous setting. All rooms have small kitchenette areas with microwaves, refrigerators, barbecue grills, and coffee makers. One room is a detached cabin with a romantic second-story loft sleeping area and its own outdoor hot tub.

bathroom

The bathrooms in this contemporary lodge are airy and well-designed with ample counter space. Rooms have deep two-person soaking tubs, and the heated floors feel especially nice on a chilly winter morning in the mountains.

lobby

A warm and inviting space to curl up with a book, watch movies on a large satellite TV, or simply warm up by the wood-burning stove, the great room has comfortable seating and lots of room to spread out and relax. Off the room, there's a large deck with panoramic views of the mountains and meadows.

dining

There's no restaurant, but rates include delicious (and filling) full breakfasts in the attractive great room.

drinking

The lodge has no bar, but you can grab wine, beer, or liquor down the road at the small grocery in Jemez Springs.