Fodor's Expert Review Inn and Spa at Loretto

This plush, oft-photographed, pueblo-inspired property attracts a loyal clientele, many of whom swear by the friendly staff and admire the elegant and artful decorating. The six-story hotel, which indeed bears a resemblance to some of New Mexico's ancient pueblos, sits at a prominent corner along historic Old Santa Fe Trail, just a quick stroll from the historic Plaza as well as Canyon Road's art galleries and the trendy Railyard Arts District. The Loretto contains a slew of amenities, including an excellent restaurant, a fine spa, an outdoor pool, and a small arcade of galleries and interesting shops.

Photo: These sophisticated Terraza Balcony guest rooms provide luxurious amenities and private or shared balconies.

room

Rooms are among the largest of any Downtown property and contain vibrantly upholstered, handcrafted furnishings, and sumptuous slate-floor bathrooms—many have large balconies, accessed through French doors, overlooking Downtown. Other nice touches include an iPod dock, spa robes and slippers, and a complimentary newspaper each day.

Photo: These sophisticated Terraza Balcony guest rooms provide luxurious amenities and private or shared balconies.

bathroom

Bathrooms are done in traditional Southwestern style, with tile floors and bath/shower combos, and some have double sinks.

YOU SHOULD KNOW For an upscale hotel, bathrooms feel a bit ordinary, small, and dated, and they also lack counter space.

lobby

The spacious lobby contains leather couches and a popular cocktail bar, and high-end architectural details—including beam ceilings, a grand fireplace, and Southwestern artwork from several prominent local galleries—make these public spaces a pleasure to relax in. From the lobby, large doors lead to the pool area and gardens.

The hotel's artist-in-residence program provides guests with the chance to interact with a local artist in the lobby's Loretto studio.

pool

There's a large rectangular outdoor pool—a rarity in the historic center of Santa Fe—just off the lobby. Comfortable, modern patio furniture lines the pool area, which also adjoins a green lawn and fragrant gardens.

Photo: The award-winning Spa at Loretto takes a holistic approach to the art of massage therapy and is the only spa in Santa Fe to use its very own custom-crafted essential oil aromatherapy blends.

spa

The Spa at Loretto is decorated with Southwestern antiques and has a lounge anchored by a kiva fireplace that's illuminated with candles. A wide range of both Japanese and more Southwestern-inspired treatments and services are offered, from facials and pedicures to a full "I want it My Way" day package that includes three treatments. Chakra balancing and reiki are also available.

Photo: The award-winning Spa at Loretto takes a holistic approach to the art of massage therapy and is the only spa in Santa Fe to use its very own custom-crafted essential oil aromatherapy blends.

gym

The fitness center is open 24 hours and is outfitted with ellipticals, treadmills, bikes, resistance machines, and free weights.

Photo: The tranquil, inviting Luminaria Restaurant & Patio offers guests a globally inspired menu and Southwestern charm.

dining

The hotel's handsome restaurant, Luminaria, serves creative Southwestern fare, such as filet mignon with blue corn enchiladas and red chile. You can dine in the attractive interior space with white-washed pine floors, latilla-beam ceilings, and tables made from reclaimed-barn wood, or during the warmer months on the tranquil tree-shaded patio hung with twinkling lanterns. Three meals are served, and Sunday brunch is a favorite with hotel guests and locals.

Photo: The tranquil, inviting Luminaria Restaurant & Patio offers guests a globally inspired menu and Southwestern charm.

Photo: A warm and sociable environment, fabulous cuisine, fantastic wines, and signature custom-crafted cocktails are the hallmarks of The Living Room at Loretto.

drinking

Adjoining the warm and gracious art-filled lobby, the Living Room Lounge, offers a number of specialty cocktails—including a popular strawberry-jalapeño margarita.

There are few more enchanting spots on a crisp Santa Fe winter evening for desserts and after-dinner drinks than by the fireplace in the Living Room lounge. Dive into the gooey-delicious banana chocolate bread pudding, or sample a platter of artisan cheeses.

Photo: A warm and sociable environment, fabulous cuisine, fantastic wines, and signature custom-crafted cocktails are the hallmarks of The Living Room at Loretto.