The Jemez area in New Mexico offers a variety of lodging options, ranging from rustic cabins to comfortable hotels and unique retreats. Here’s a breakdown of the lodging in the Jemez, categorized for easier browsing:
Hotels/Motels/Lodges:
- Cañon del Rio: A riverside lodge and wellness retreat located in Jemez Springs. They offer rooms, suites, and private casitas, many with fireplaces and views. They focus on a tranquil experience.
- The Laughing Lizard Inn: Four charming uniquely decorated rooms and new two room Sunflower Suite with kitchen. Family and pet friendly.
- Jemez Mountain Inn: Very similar and next door to the Laughing Lizard Inn. Quaint and central.
Cabins & Vacation Rentals:
- Airbnb and VRBO: These platforms are your best bet for finding a wide range of cabins, cottages, and houses in the Jemez area. You can find everything from small, rustic cabins to large, luxurious homes, and you can filter by amenities (hot tub, fireplace, pet-friendly, etc.). Search in locations like Jemez Springs, La Cueva, and even areas closer to the Valles Caldera National Preserve.
- Specific Cabin Rental Companies (often found via Google search): Some local property management companies may specialize in Jemez-area cabin rentals. Searching “Jemez cabin rentals” will often bring these up.
- Riverdance lodge and casitas: Casitas along the Jemez river.
Retreat Centers & Unique Stays:
- Bodhi Manda Zen Center: A Zen Buddhist monastery that offers retreats and lodging to those interested in meditation and a peaceful environment. Located in Jemez Springs. This is a very specific type of lodging, suitable for those seeking a quiet, contemplative experience.
- The Laughing Lizard Retreat Center: This property can be found in Air B&B.
Camping
(Not strictly lodging, but an important accommodation option in the area):
- Jemez Falls Campground: A popular campground near Jemez Falls (a beautiful waterfall). Reservations are often required, especially during peak season.
- Redondo Campground: Another Forest Service campground in the area, close to hiking trails.
- Vista Linda Campground: Located along the Jemez River.
- San Antonio Campground: Yet another Forest Service option, offering good access to the Jemez Mountains.
- Dispersed Camping: The Santa Fe National Forest allows dispersed camping (camping outside of designated campgrounds) in many areas. This requires more self-sufficiency and following Leave No Trace principles. Check with the Forest Service for regulations and restrictions.
Important Considerations When Choosing Lodging:
- Location:
- Jemez Springs: The main village, with restaurants, hot springs, and shops. It’s the most central location.
- La Cueva: A smaller, quieter village a bit north of Jemez Springs, closer to the Valles Caldera.
- Further Out: Cabins and rentals further into the mountains offer more seclusion, but you’ll be driving more to reach amenities.
- Amenities: Decide what’s important to you (hot tub, fireplace, kitchen, Wi-Fi, pet-friendliness, etc.).
- Time of Year:
- Summer: Peak season, reservations highly recommended.
- Fall: Beautiful foliage, but still busy. Book ahead.
- Winter: Some lodging may be closed, and roads can be snowy.
- Spring: Can be muddy and unpredictable weather.
- Hot Springs Access: If you’re coming to the Jemez specifically for the hot springs, consider staying in Jemez Springs for easy walking access to the Jemez Hot Springs (formerly Giggling Springs) or the public bathhouse.
- Reviews: Always check reviews on sites like TripAdvisor, Google, Yelp, Airbnb, and VRBO to get an idea of other travelers’ experiences.
This comprehensive list should give you a very good starting point for planning your lodging in the beautiful Jemez area! Remember to book in advance, especially if you’re traveling during a popular time.