Bed and Breakfast America Spring 2006

Let's preface this with a public service announcement: Keep your eyes on the drive when turning into Salsa del Salto Bed and Breakfast Inn. One cannot help but lose focus on driving when a panorama of twelve thousand foot peaks fills your windshield; it has that effect on most people. The Taos, New Mexico area is synonymous with spectacular vistas; none more inspiring than that greeting you to Salsa del Salto.
Located at an elevation of 8000 feet, the Inn is situated literally in the shadow of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, part of the Southern Rockies chain. It is an idyllic setting, amid the mountains and overlooking Taos Mesa and the Rio Grande Gorge. The Inn's location is central to the amazing slate of activities that Taos area has to offer. The nearby Taos Pueblo, a World Heritage site, has been continuously inhabited since 1350 A.D. It is one of New Mexico's oldest pueblos and is but moments away. The world famous Taos Ski Valley, celebrating 50 years of heart stopping action, is an enjoyable nine mile commute.

Salsa del Salto lies equally close to the artistic delights of Taos Plaza. They are fortunate enough to call some of the areas finest eateries as neighbors. Not to be forgotten is the hidden jewel of Arroyo Seco. Seco, as it is known lovingly, is a quaint, 250 year old Northern New Mexico village, just a mere quarter mile from your doorstep. Visitors to Arroyo Seco stop to savor its inviting scenery, ambience, pristine air, and eclectic shopping opportunities. Stop and tempt your palette with a deliciously decadent and refreshing scoop from famous Taos Cow Ice Cream. Experience, yes, experience (the only word that fits) a taco or two from Abe's Cantina, a Ski Valley Road tradition, while perusing the antique wares and merchandise of Arroyo Seco Mercantile. Grab a coffee from Gypsy 360. The Doug West Gallery, and Francesca's Boutique beckon. And if you are fortunate enough to be visiting during the Fourth of July, the holiday Parade is not to be missed.

Salsa del Salto is an enclave of peace and tranquility. It is a realization of a dream. Upon retiring, owners Pam and Jim Maisey (Pam was with a major luxury hotel chain for 25 years), envisioned owning an inn that had architectural integrity; a place where a savvy and discerning traveler could enjoy one of Taos' finest addresses, drinking in the incomparable scenery that defines Salsa del Salto.

The property is literally just a stones throw from the impressive silhouette of the Southern Rockies. The 7800 sq.ft. Inn is impressive in both size and scope. It consists of two buildings, each architecturally unique. The larger building was designed by world renowned architect, Antoine Predock (winner of the prestigious 2005 American Institute of Architects' Gold Medal, joining the likes of Frank Lloyd Wright and I.M. Pei). Recently, Pre3dock has had other high visibility commissions, including the new Canadian Museum for Human Rights, The National Palace Museum of Taiwan, and the new San Diego Padres' Petco Park. Rock, glass and timber abound this impressive structure, the better to enjoy the almost limitless sunshine and surroundings.

Upon entering the Lodge, it is impossible to miss one of the Inn's most spectacular features. The massive two story fireplace, constructed of stones and timbers hewn from the turn of the century mines above nearby Taos Ski Valley, is both impressive and inviting. Look behind this rock behemoth. French doors open upon a colorful oasis of color, a flower filled courtyard greets your senses. Pam states the courtyard proves popular for the numerous weddings that Salsa del Salto hosts. With a setting this serene, it's no wonder that the Inn has become one of Taos' premiere wedding and special events venues; hosting ceremonies of up to 250 people, on its two cottonwood lined acres of lawn.

Accommodations include ten rooms; six being located in the lodge. Another four casita style rooms stand separate; they being a leisurely stroll past the pool and tennis court. Salsa del Salto Bed and Breakfast Inn is expansive enough to provide guests the option of partaking in the company of fellow travelers and friendly staff, or retiring to the peaceful seclusion offered by the casitas.

Each of the rooms has been carefully designed with comfort in mind. Each is richly appointed. Each room differs from the last. The rooms offer a distinctive style and charm, unsurpassed by any accommodations in the area. All have been furnished with finely crafted New Mexican furnishings; each has a spectacular view of either the mountains or mesas. Each room has its own bath. Indulge yourself in restful sleep, nestled between 300 count Egyptian cotton sheets and luxurious down comforters, beds as warm and inviting as the Inn's hospitality. Some rooms include fireplaces and jetted tubs. Most of the Inn's rooms have television, DVD/VCR, coffee makers, and in room refrigerators. Heated Saltillo tile floors and bath amenities complete the decor. Don't be misled; while guests of Salsa del Salto roam the same trails that Kit Carson traveled, the Inn provides all of the comforts, amenities, and palette tempting delights of a first class property.

Guests of Salsa del Salto begin each day with a sumptuous breakfast, wonderful specialties and innovative dishes, combining only the freshest and finest of ingredients. Featured daily, is a variety of fresh juices, delightful pastries and baked goods, in addition to both traditional and regional fare. You may be tempted with such entrees as Eggs Benedict with roasted tomatoes and portabello mushrooms, green chile and brie omelettes with fresh baked croissants, or Creme Brulee French Toast with fresh berries and apricot turkey sausage. Salsa del Salto is a feast for the palette as well as the eyes. It is the perfect prelude to the adventures that await.

The Inn offers a wide and varied slate of diversions. The property offers a selection of recreational activities that most country clubs would be jealous of. Guests may choose to relax and read by the seasonally heated, sparkling pool. They may choose to hit a few ground strokes on the exclusive tennis court. Soak away stress in the Jacuzzi, while enjoying the famous Taos sunshine. Play a game of croquette; maybe some badminton. Salsa del Salto's location also allows it's guests easy access to all of Taos' outdoor activities. Enjoy a leisurely horseback ride, maybe some hot air ballooning. Try casting your luck while fly fishing in the Rio Hondo. Bike amid rustic country roads. Take a hike in the 1.1 million acre Carson National Forest, it is all at your doorstep. Experience the exhilaration of rafting the Rio Grande and Rio Chama rivers. Excursions and sightseeing can be arranged. Afternoon appetizers and Frank's famous White Chocolate Chip Macadamia Nut Cookies await your return. Above all, take some time to smile, breathe deeply, and enjoy all that is Salsa del Salto.

Taos is a mystical place, leaving the visitor with a lifetime of memories. Salsa del Salto Bed and Breakfast Inn: Secluded, Silent, and meant to be savored by a select few.