El Monte Sagrado

El Monte Sagrado, a Marriott hotel, stands out from the competition as the only upscale hotel in Taos. The property’s exterior is a modernized take on traditional pueblo architecture. Cottonwood trees, ponds, and waterfalls make this desert oasis a popular pick among couples and families. Lawns are stylishly manicured and chic antler chandeliers bring Southwestern charm to the outdoor hallways. The Living Machine -- an outdoor water recycling system -- has a pond and lush foliage while a space coined as the hotel's Biolarium is bursting with greenery.

New Mexican paintings are in the Grand Bohemian Gallery and in the lobby, which is outfitted with stylish leather furniture, a fireplace, and stone wall accents. A billiards table reputedly used by pool player Minnesota Fats can be found in the library along with elegant chess tables. The indoor pool and hot tub have a breathtaking skylight ceiling and stylish red-cushioned lounge chairs. A wheelchair lift is on the deck. 

Located on a residential street, El Monte Sagrado is near an array of area sights. Taos Plaza -- with its restaurants, bars, and galleries -- is a 10-minute walk northwest while it’s a 15-minute walk to the The Harwood Museum of Art in the same general direction. Driving to Taos Pueblo, a famed Native-American historical landmark, takes eight minutes. Hiking trails are available at Carson National Forest, more than an hour’s drive west. Other nearby destinations include Taos Indian Horse Ranch, which offers horseback riding, and Taos Mountain Casino.

The hotel offers a variety of suites along with Casitas and Taos Mountain Rooms. Guest units feature artwork and unique Southwestern decor, such as mohair armoires, kiva fireplaces, and viga ceilings. Coffeemakers with Starbucks products, flat-screen TVs, safes, and mini-fridges are standard features, while Global Suites have two bedrooms and two bathrooms, living rooms, hot tubs, and wet bars. Serene garden views are also available from patios or balconies. Bathrooms have modern accents, offering shower/tub combos, separate showers, or whirlpool tubs. Some fixtures, though, are showing wear -- we saw plenty of nicks on the furniture. Pet-friendly rooms (for a fee) are available as well.

The on-site spa offers kiva fireplace treatment rooms, a sauna, a steam room, and a manicure/pedicure station. A bright gym is equipped with cardio equipment and weights. The hotel’s six meeting spaces -- including a grand ballroom -- are modern and elegant, appealing to both couples planning weddings and business travelers. Meeting rooms can fit up to 250 people.

De La Tierra serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a contemporary setting with a casual dress code; a private wine room is also on the premises. In contrast, The Gardens is a tropical atrium restaurant with classic furniture, trees, and a small waterfall. And the Anaconda Bar features a gold snake sculpture, a saltwater aquarium, and live entertainment.