The odorless geothermal waters did the trick and I slept soundly my second night at Sierra Grande Ranch. I woke up refreshed and a bit sad I did not have time for another soak and one of the massage treatments before departing.
I took advantage of the coffee service in the lobby before heading downstairs to the restaurant for breakfast. Service was once again friendly.
Spending a few days glamping in Southern New Mexico was really enjoyable. I would recommend the Sierra Grande Ranch as a nice add-on destination on for anyone planning a visit to Santa Fe or Albuquerque. It was nice to explore a different part of the state. The geothermal spa waters are quite enjoyable and the privacy offered by the private pools made the experience very pleasant.
Sierra Grande Ranch is intimate, friendly and comfortable but not posh. The casita offers the most privacy and space if you are staying for more than a few days or for families. The rooms in the main lodge are comfortable and have everything you need to be comfortable for a few nights.
Even if you don’t spend the night, I’d highly recommend a day visit to the spa ($30 for one to two non-guests) and a soak in the lovely scent-free waters.
The Restaurant at Sierra Grande is definitely worthy of a visit if you are passing through. Chef Tatsu Miyazaki’s menu was innovative and his food delicious. The dinner I had at The Restaurant at Sierra Grande was better than any I ate in foodie-centric Santa Fe. The restaurant expects to have it’s liquor license by the end of the summer.
Truth or Consequences is an eclectic little town and the nearby Elephant Butte Dam is beautiful and recreation area is worth exploring.
If you get a chance to visit, I would definitely encourage you to organize a tour or activity with Ted Turner Expeditions (TTX). My tour of the Ladder Ranch was fun, interesting, and gave me new insight into the southwest and the history of New Mexico. It was the absolute highlight of the trip. TTX is working on more active expeditions including mountain biking adventures. They can work with guests at the Sierra Grande Ranch and Vermejo Park Ranch to arrange personalized tours and activities based on specific interests.
The most popular time to visit is October through May. New Mexico’s “monsoon” season is June 15- September 30th. July is the hottest month with the temperatures averaging 95. It’s not surprising that the hot springs aren’t as popular during these months.
If you get a chance to visit, don’t miss trying the Hatch green chiles favored by the locals. They like to serve them on hamburgers and you can try them for yourself at the Owl Bar & Cafe in Sorocco if you are passing through on your way to Albuquerque. The locals like them hot so you might request mild if you are an inexperienced chile eater.
Rates at Sierra Grande Ranch and Spa start at $155 for a Queen bedded room in the main Lodge. The Casita can be booked for up to four people with rates starting at $415 per night.
The Ladder Ranch can be booked for $6,000 per night and is suitable for families or groups.
Costilla Lodge at Vermejo Park Ranch is also part of the TTX property portfolio with rates beginning at $950 per night.
